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KYU → FAI
Which side of the plane to sit from Koyukuk Airport (Koyukuk) to Fairbanks International Airport (Fairbanks)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most iconic views, featuring the vast Tanana River valley and the distant but magnificent high peaks of the Alaska Range, including Denali on clear days.
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Yukon-Tanana Confluence
The dramatic meeting point of two of Alaska's most powerful and historic river systems.
The Alaska Range
Panoramic views of the horizon-spanning peaks, with Denali frequently visible on the far horizon.
Nenana River
The junction where the glacier-fed Nenana River joins the Tanana, marked by the iconic Mears Memorial Bridge.
Interior Boreal Forest
Vast, uninterrupted stretches of black spruce and birch forest that define the Alaskan Interior.
This side is the premier choice for mountain lovers. For the best chance to see Denali (Mount McKinley), look toward the south-southwest roughly 20-30 minutes into the flight. Afternoon flights are ideal as the sun highlights the southern peaks without creating excessive glare. During winter, look for the 'ice fog' settling over the river valleys.
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Koyukuk Wildlife Refuge
Intricate oxbow lakes and meandering river channels immediately visible after takeoff.
Ray Mountains
Ancient, rugged granite peaks and rolling ridges rising from the interior floor to the north.
Minto Flats
A sprawling 500,000-acre wetland complex featuring a labyrinth of lakes and migratory bird habitats.
Murphy Dome
One of the highest points near Fairbanks, topped with a distinctive Cold War-era radar station.
Choose this side if you are interested in the unique hydrology of the subarctic. During the autumn, the Minto Flats area turns a brilliant gold and red. On the approach to Fairbanks International, you will get a clearer view of the Chena River and the northern outskirts of the city.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 466 km (290 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 47 min
Departure: KYU (64.8760986328, -157.727005005)
Arrival: FAI (64.81510162, -147.85600280000003)
Route Type: Domestic
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