Alaska West Air Inc

Operating on the Kenai Peninsula since the early 1980s, Alaska West Air Inc. has established itself as a seasoned tour operator specializing in fly-in excursions to the remote and wild landscapes across the Cook Inlet. This family-owned air taxi service focuses on providing access to premier Alaskan experiences, primarily centered around two key activities: fishing and bear viewing. Their reputation, reflected in a high average rating from a large number of clients, is built on delivering exceptional adventures in Alaska's backcountry. The company operates a varied fleet of aircraft, including DeHavilland Turbine Otters and Beavers, capable of accommodating different group sizes for their wilderness trips.

The Destination Experience: Guides and Wildlife

The overwhelming consensus from customer feedback is that the on-the-ground and on-the-water experiences are where Alaska West Air truly excels. The company’s guides receive consistent and effusive praise, with individuals like Tony, Luke, Badger, and Nick frequently mentioned by name for their expertise, knowledge, and engaging personalities. These guides are credited with transforming good trips into unforgettable ones. For instance, reports highlight guides who know precisely where to find wildlife and who skillfully adapt fishing strategies—changing locations and lures—to ensure guests have a successful and enjoyable day. One family noted their guide, Tony, was so effective they stopped counting after each person had caught ten fish.

The core offerings are robust and well-executed:

• Bear Viewing Tours: This is a signature experience for the company. Travelers report incredible sightings of both brown and black bears in their natural habitats, such as Crescent Lake and Wolverine Creek. Experiences often involve watching a mother bear with her cubs or observing multiple bears fishing for salmon from the safety of a boat. The guides are noted for their ability to position the vessel for excellent, safe viewing and photography opportunities.
• Guided Fishing Trips: The company provides fly-in access to remote rivers and lakes teeming with salmon, arctic char, and trout. Clients frequently report catching their limit of salmon, and the guides' expertise is a commonly cited reason for this success. These trips cater to both experienced anglers and novices, with staff ensuring everyone has a productive time on the water.

Many customers opt for a combination tour package, such as the Crescent Lake trip that includes bear viewing, fishing, and flightseeing. These multi-activity excursions are often described as a quintessential part of Alaska adventure travel and receive high marks for their comprehensive nature.

The Transit Experience: A Variable Flightseeing Component

The journey to these remote locations is by floatplane, and the flight itself is an integral part of the adventure. Many clients appreciate the stunning aerial views of glaciers, mountains, and the Alaska Range. Several reviews praise the pilots for their professionalism, skill, and focus on safety. One visitor, who was also a career pilot, spoke very highly of the entire operation and its safety standards. Another mentioned their pilot, Brad, provided an excellent narrative during the flight, pointing out wildlife and geographic features.

However, feedback on the flightseeing tour aspect is inconsistent. The most significant point of criticism comes from a detailed account of a negative experience with a pilot named Doug. While the guide on this trip was rated exceptionally high, the pilot was described as uncommunicative, providing only the mandatory safety briefing. More critically, the pilot instructed a passenger in the co-pilot seat to put her camera away, stating that photography made him uncomfortable. For an activity where capturing the scenery is a primary motivation for many, this is a substantial drawback. This specific incident suggests that while the pilots are skilled aviators, their role as engaging tour communicators can vary dramatically. It highlights a potential disconnect where the flight can sometimes be simple transportation rather than a narrated scenic tour.

Operations and Customer Support

Behind the scenes, the company's administrative side generally receives positive mentions. The office staff is described as helpful and communicative, particularly when dealing with the realities of Alaska tourism, such as weather-related delays. One review specifically praised an employee named Gracie for her proactive communication in rescheduling a trip due to high winds, allowing the family to adjust their plans smoothly.

Final Assessment

Alaska West Air Inc. stands out as a top-tier provider of wildlife viewing and fishing excursions. Its primary strength lies in its exceptional, knowledgeable guides who consistently deliver memorable and successful trips. If your goal is to see bears up close or have a fantastic day of fishing in a remote Alaskan setting, this company is a highly reliable choice.

The main consideration for potential customers is the variability of the flight experience. While many pilots provide a safe and scenic journey, the "tour" component of the flight is not guaranteed and, in at least one documented case, was actively hindered. Travelers, especially avid photographers, should consider clarifying their expectations when booking. Asking about the pilot's policy on in-flight photography might be a prudent step to ensure all aspects of the trip meet their expectations. Overall, the company delivers an outstanding destination experience, even if the journey to get there can sometimes be inconsistent.