Ultimate Guide to Fairbanks International Airport (FAI)
The Complete Traveler’s Guide to Fairbanks, Alaska's Premier Airport
Introduction: Why Choose Fairbanks International Airport?
Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) is the primary airport serving Interior Alaska, connecting travelers to major domestic and international destinations. Conveniently located three miles southwest of downtown Fairbanks, FAI is the second-busiest airport in Alaska, handling over one million passengers annually.
Whether you’re traveling for business, adventure, or tourism, this guide will provide detailed insights into FAI’s terminals, airlines, services, transportation options, parking, and more.
Key Facts About Fairbanks International Airport (FAI):
✔ Airport Code: FAI
✔ Location: 6450 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709
✔ Elevation: 439 feet (134 meters)
✔ Annual Passenger Traffic: ~1 million
✔ Runways: 4
✔ Terminals: 1
FAI serves as a key transit point for travelers heading to Alaska’s Arctic regions and is a hub for both passenger and cargo flights. The airport is well-equipped with modern facilities, offering travelers a seamless and efficient airport experience.
1. Airlines and Destinations at Fairbanks International Airport
Fairbanks International Airport is served by several major airlines, offering direct flights to key cities across the United States and international destinations.
Airlines Operating at FAI:
- Alaska Airlines (Main Hub)
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
- American Airlines
- Condor Airlines (Seasonal international service to Germany)
- Sun Country Airlines (Seasonal flights to Minneapolis/St. Paul)
Nonstop Destinations from FAI:
✔ Seattle (SEA) – Alaska Airlines, Delta
✔ Anchorage (ANC) – Alaska Airlines
✔ Portland (PDX) – Alaska Airlines
✔ Denver (DEN) – United Airlines
✔ Minneapolis/St. Paul (MSP) – Delta, Sun Country Airlines (seasonal)
✔ Chicago O’Hare (ORD) – American Airlines (seasonal)
✔ Frankfurt, Germany (FRA) – Condor Airlines (seasonal)
FAI provides essential connections for travelers to the Arctic Circle, Denali National Park, and remote Alaskan villages, making it a crucial hub for adventure seekers and business travelers alike.
2. Terminal Facilities and Services at Fairbanks International Airport
FAI has one main terminal, designed for ease of use and efficiency. The terminal is divided into two main levels:
First Floor (Arrivals & Baggage Claim):
✔ Baggage Claim Area – Convenient access for arriving passengers
✔ Car Rental Counters – Located near baggage claim for easy vehicle pickup
✔ Ground Transportation Hub – Includes taxis, rideshare pickup, and hotel shuttles
Second Floor (Departures & Ticketing):
✔ Airline Check-In Counters – Easily accessible from the main entrance
✔ TSA Security Checkpoint – Efficient screening process with TSA PreCheck available
✔ Gates & Passenger Lounge Areas – Spacious waiting areas with comfortable seating
Amenities Available at FAI:
✔ Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
✔ Charging Stations for electronic devices
✔ Family Restrooms & Nursing Rooms
✔ Pet Relief Areas – Both indoor and outdoor locations
✔ Business & Conference Rooms
FAI is a traveler-friendly airport with modern amenities, easy navigation, and a relaxed atmosphere, ensuring a stress-free experience for all passengers.
3. Dining & Shopping at Fairbanks International Airport
While FAI is a smaller airport, it still offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers.
Dining Options at FAI:
🍽 The Edge Restaurant – Local Alaskan cuisine with scenic views
☕ Grounds for Thought Café – Coffee, pastries, and sandwiches
🥪 Alaska Dog Haus – Hot dogs, burgers, and quick bites
Shopping & Duty-Free at FAI:
🛍 Fairbanks Gift Shop – Alaskan souvenirs, books, and apparel
🎁 Denali Trading Post – Locally made gifts, jewelry, and snacks
💡 TIP: Try Alaskan reindeer sausage or smoked salmon snacks at the airport before your flight!
4. Transportation Options: Getting To & From Fairbanks International Airport
FAI is easily accessible by multiple modes of transportation, ensuring travelers can reach their destinations quickly and efficiently.
Public Transit & Shuttle Services:
✔ MACS Transit (Fairbanks Public Bus) – Provides affordable transportation to downtown Fairbanks and surrounding areas
✔ Hotel Shuttles – Many hotels near FAI offer free shuttle services
Taxis & Rideshare Services:
🚕 Fairbanks Taxi & Shuttle Services – Available outside baggage claim
🚗 Uber & Lyft – Designated pickup areas near the terminal
Car Rentals at FAI:
🚙 Enterprise Rent-A-Car
🚗 Hertz
🚙 Avis
🚗 Budget
💡 TIP: If you’re planning to visit Denali National Park, renting a car is highly recommended, as public transportation options are limited.
5. Parking at Fairbanks International Airport
FAI offers short-term, long-term, and economy parking options:
| Parking Type | Hourly Rate | Daily Max | Weekly Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short-Term Parking | $2.00 per hour | $15.00 | $90.00 |
| Long-Term Parking | $1.50 per hour | $12.00 | $75.00 |
| Economy Parking | $1.00 per hour | $10.00 | $60.00 |
✔ First 30 minutes of parking is FREE in short-term parking!
✔ Handicap-accessible parking available in all lots
💡 TIP: Reserve airport parking online in advance for discounted rates and guaranteed availability.
6. Hotels Near Fairbanks International Airport
For travelers with early morning flights or layovers, there are several hotels near FAI offering free shuttle servicesand comfortable accommodations.
🏨 Best Hotels Near FAI:
✔ La Quinta Inn & Suites Fairbanks – Free airport shuttle, hot breakfast
✔ Pike’s Waterfront Lodge – Scenic riverside views, great for Aurora Borealis viewing
✔ SpringHill Suites by Marriott Fairbanks – Modern suites, fitness center
✔ Westmark Fairbanks Hotel & Conference Center – Business-friendly, located downtown
💡 TIP: If you’re visiting in winter, book a hotel with Northern Lights wake-up calls for a chance to see the Aurora Borealis!
7. Travel Tips for Fairbanks International Airport
✔ Arrive Early: Allow at least 90 minutes for domestic flights and 2-3 hours for international flights.
✔ Winter Travel: Expect snowy conditions, so plan extra travel time to the airport.
✔ Watch for the Aurora Borealis: In winter months, you might see the Northern Lights from the airport!
✔ Book Car Rentals Early: Alaska is a top adventure destination, so rental cars can sell out quickly.
✔ Check Flight Status: Use the FAI airport website or airline apps for real-time updates.
Conclusion: Why Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) is the Best Choice
Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) is the gateway to Alaska’s Arctic region, offering efficient service, modern amenities, and breathtaking views of the Northern Lights.
Whether you’re exploring Denali National Park, visiting the Arctic Circle, or heading to Anchorage, FAI provides a convenient and stress-free travel experience.
