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FAI → MLY
Which side of the plane to sit from Fairbanks International Airport (Fairbanks) to Manley Hot Springs Airport (Manley Hot Springs)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the rugged Yukon-Tanana Uplands and a direct perspective of the Manley Hot Springs community upon landing.
White Mountains
Distant views of the limestone peaks of the White Mountains National Recreation Area to the north.
Tolovana River
A winding black-water river that snakes through the hills as you approach the destination.
Manley Hot Springs Village
A clear view of the historic mining and gardening community and the steam rising from the springs.
Yukon-Tanana Uplands
Rugged, rolling hills that define the landscape between Fairbanks and the Tanana valley floor.
The right side is ideal for the descent into Manley Hot Springs. Look for the distinct change in vegetation near the community where the natural warmth of the springs affects the local microclimate. Morning flights offer the best shadow definition on the rolling hills.
Tanana River Meanders
Spectacular views of the massive glacial river system with complex silt patterns and oxbow lakes.
Minto Flats
A vast expanse of wetlands and ponds within the State Game Refuge, teeming with waterfowl.
Alaska Range Horizon
On exceptionally clear days, the southern horizon features the distant, jagged silhouette of Denali.
Boreal Forest Taiga
Dense patterns of black spruce and permafrost features characteristic of the Interior Alaskan wilderness.
Choose the left side for the best chance of spotting wildlife in the Minto Flats wetlands. Afternoon flights provide excellent backlighting for the water features, making the ponds shimmer against the tundra.
Distance: 133 km (83 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 13 min
Departure: FAI (64.81510162, -147.85600280000003)
Arrival: MLY (64.99759674069999, -150.643997192)
Route Type: Domestic
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