PenAir, Anchorage, AK

PenAir (abbreviated from Peninsular Airways) are a commuter airline based at Anchorage. The company was founded in 1955 by Orin Seybert, using a single 1946 2-seat Taylorcraft aircraft. It has now grown into the largest commuter airline in Alaska, and operates a fleet of 40 aircraft, ranging from small single engined aircraft such as the Piper Saratoga, through the Cessna Caravan and Grumman Goose up to larger turboprop powered Saab 340s and Fairchild Metros.

PenAir provides service to 36 destinations in South West Alaska, including such remote settlements as Atka and Dutch Harbor in the far South West Aleutian Islands. The operation at Anchorage is equipped with Saab 340s and Metroliners, and operates from a modern hangar near the freight ramp at Ted Stevens Intl. We were shown around by one of the airline's staff, and her enthusiasm and pride in the company was obvious to us all.

The aircraft in the PenAir fleet are all painted with depictions of the indigenous wildlife of Alaska, such as the Puffins seen on the rear fuselage of one of their Saab 340s.

The company maintains a strong sense of identity, and also of its history. On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the airlines foundation, the children of the founder, Orin Seybert, traced, bought and restored the original Taylorcraft with which he began operations in 1955. The aircraft is looked after in their hangar at Anchorage.

We had a brief, but very enjoyable visit to PenAir, long enough to appreciate the friendly, familial atmosphere of the company, and also the high professional standards of a company which takes pride in its history, and the respect in which it is held.

Many thanks to our host at PenAir, for allowing us access to their ramp, and for the great tour.

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