A Special Use Permit is required for all companies providing flights for which passengers pay a fee or for any services rendered or goods delivered on Refuge lands. A $100 administrative permit application fee is required.
Businesses seeking to operate in winter and spring should apply in the October 1 to November 30 application period in the year prior to operation. Businesses seeking to operate in summer and fall should apply January 1 to March 15 in the current year. If sending by mail, permit applications postmarked by the end-date of each application period will be accepted.
Steps to apply for a permit:
1) Read the Application Guidance.
2) Fill out the commercial permit application and sign the document (either electronically or printed).
3) Compile the following documents to submit with your application form:
- State of Alaska Business License
- Liability Insurance Requirement (minimum: Aviation Passenger Liability: $150,000/seat plus Property Damage: $100,000)
- FAA Air Carrier Certificate
- State of Alaska Air Carrier Certificate of Compliance
- Transporter License from the Alaska Big Game Commercial Services Board (if you plan to be a transporter on the Refuge)
4) Submit the application form and supporting documentation via email to arctic_permits@fws.gov or via mail to Arctic Refuge Permit Specialist, 101 12th Avenue Room 236, Fairbanks, AK 99701.
5) Pay the $100 administrative fee. You may call (907)888-5704 with a credit card or mail to 101 12th Avenue Room 236, Fairbanks, AK 99701.
If you have any questions, please call (907)888-5704 or email arctic_permits@fws.gov.
See Visit Us, then Tours in the left-hand menu list for guides currently permitted to operate on the Refuge.
