Merle K Mudhole Smith Airport - CDV in Cordova, Alaska

Merle K. "Mudhole" Smith Airport (CDV): Cordova's Gateway to Prince William Sound

Merle K. "Mudhole" Smith Airport (IATA: CDV) serves the city of Cordova on the eastern shore of Prince William Sound, named for Merle "Mudhole" Smith — the legendary Alaska bush pilot who founded Cordova Airlines and was instrumental in developing Alaska's aviation infrastructure in the mid-20th century. The colorful nickname reflected his early career landing on Alaska's rough, muddy strips before proper runways existed. Cordova, a fishing community of approximately 2,200 residents, has no road connections to the Alaska highway system — the nearest road-connected community is Valdez, accessible only by ferry across Prince William Sound or by air. CDV is therefore the community's essential airline connection, with Ravn Alaska and Alaska Airlines providing scheduled jet service to Anchorage.

Cordova is home to one of Alaska's most important commercial fishing fleets, centered on the Copper River — home to the famous and premium-priced Copper River king and sockeye salmon that command extraordinary prices in Seattle, San Francisco, and New York markets each May at the season opening. The airport supports the fishing industry's logistical needs for rapid transport of fresh catch to market by air, crew rotations, and the professional services that support the industry. The FAA Alaskan Region provides full instrument approach services at CDV, essential for the coastal Prince William Sound weather environment where maritime fog and low ceilings are frequent operational challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions About Merle K. "Mudhole" Smith Airport

Who was Mudhole Smith?

Merle K. "Mudhole" Smith was a legendary Alaska bush pilot who earned his nickname from early career exploits on rough Alaskan strips. He founded Cordova Airlines and was a pioneering figure in developing Alaska's commercial aviation infrastructure.

What airlines serve Cordova Airport (CDV)?

Alaska Airlines provides scheduled jet service between CDV and Anchorage, with Ravn Alaska also providing regional service. The airport is Cordova's primary connection to the highway and broader transportation system.

Why is Copper River salmon so famous?

Copper River salmon — particularly king and sockeye — are renowned for exceptionally high oil content resulting from the fish's long migration up the Copper River system. This fat content produces premium flavor that commands the highest prices in the fresh salmon market.

Is Cordova accessible by road?

No. Cordova has no road connection to the Alaska highway system. Access is by air (CDV) or by Alaska Marine Highway System ferry from Valdez, Whittier, or Juneau.

Visiting Cordova via Mudhole Smith Airport

Arriving at CDV delivers travelers to one of Alaska's most appealing small fishing cities, where the Copper River delta's extraordinary bird migration spectacle in May — one of the world's largest shorebird congregations — coincides with the opening of Copper River salmon season. The city of Cordova offers excellent dining featuring local seafood, the Cordova Historical Museum, and Chugach National Forest access for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The Prince William Sound is accessible from Cordova by small boat for spectacular wildlife tours and kayaking in the protected Sound's magnificent fjord and island environment.

The FAA Alaskan Region provides instrument approach procedures and airspace management for CDV, critical for a location where Prince William Sound maritime weather can change rapidly from clear conditions to IMC. Alaska DOT&PF invests in Cordova Airport's infrastructure as the city's essential transportation link in the same way other states invest in road access to comparable communities. The airport's legacy in Alaska aviation — carrying the name of one of the state's most beloved aviation pioneers — is a reminder that bush flying culture built the aviation infrastructure that modern Alaska depends on, and that the spirit of Mudhole Smith's resourcefulness and determination continues in every Alaska pilot who keeps remote communities connected.