Fairbanks Air Traffic Control Tower and Terminal Radar Service Area (TRACON) at Fairbanks International Airport (PAFA) temporarily ceased overnight operations starting Oct. 19, 2026.
Under the temporary operating schedule, air traffic control services are suspended daily from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. local time, according to FAA officials. The temporary operating schedule remains in effect “until further advised,” according to the NOTAM.
While the Class D airspace surrounding PAFA remains in effect during closure hours, air traffic control services will not be provided.
In accordance with Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) Section 91.129(a), pilots are not required to establish or maintain two-way radio communication with ATC inside the Class D airspace during these hours. Terminal Radar Service Area (TRSA) services are also unavailable during the overnight closure.
Pilots operating in the area during non-tower hours must use the Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) on 118.3 MHz. Visual Flight Rules (VFR) traffic arriving or departing PAFA should maintain heightened awareness for large and heavy turbojet aircraft, as well as ground equipment and personnel operating on movement areas, FAA officials cautioned.
Additionally, the Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS) is unavailable during closure hours. Weather reporting services can be obtained by contacting Fairbanks Flight Service on 122.2 MHz or 124.1 MHz, or by phone at 907-474-0137 or 866-248-6516. Weather information is also accessible through the Fairbanks Aviation Weather Observer’s Office at 907-458-3708, the Alaska Aviation Weather Office at 907-266-5110, or Anchorage Center on 120.9 MHz.
Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) traffic arriving at PAFA should report IFR cancellation with Fairbanks Flight Service on 122.2 MHz or 124.1 MHz. Pilots requesting IFR or Special VFR (SVFR) clearance on the ground should contact Fairbanks Flight Service and expect to receive a Hold for Release. Airborne IFR or SVFR clearances may be requested through Anchorage Center on 120.9 MHz or 133.1 MHz.
Runway Visual Range (RVR) data and pilot-controlled lighting are unavailable while the control tower is closed. Approach lighting will be preset to the highest intensity warranted by conditions forecast in the Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF), though adjustments to airfield lighting can be requested on CTAF with Airport Operations.
For operational questions during business hours, pilots may contact Fairbanks Tower at 907-474-0050 or the Anchorage Center Watch Desk after hours at 907-269-1103.
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