Fairbanks Airport (FAI) Guide
Welcome to Fairbanks Airport, the gateway to the beautiful state of Alaska! Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, our airport is here to make your travel experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. With a wide range of amenities and services, you'll find everything you need to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable.
Looking for helpful information to get you from your door to your gate? Our extensive guide has got you covered! From flight status and tracking to airline departure terminals and gate locations, parking options, terminal maps, and food and shopping directories, we've got all the essential details you need to know before you take off. Let us help you make the most of your time at FAI! For more detailed information about other major airports, check out the Comprehensive Airport Guide on iFly's website.
Helpful Tips
When to Arrive
It is recommended to arrive at FAI Airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights. The busiest times to avoid are during the summer months and holiday seasons. During these times, it is advised to arrive at the airport even earlier to allow for potential delays.
Getting to the Airport
The best way to get to the airport is by car. There are several parking options available, including short-term and long-term parking. If you prefer not to drive, there are also taxi and shuttle services available. Some hotels in the area also offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport.
Getting Oriented
When you arrive at Fairbanks Airport, use iFly.com's interactive airport maps to get oriented. The maps provide information on the location of gates, restrooms, restaurants, and other amenities. You can also use the maps to plan your route to your departure gate, making your travel experience more efficient and stress-free.
Avoiding Delays
To avoid delays at Fairbanks Airport, make sure to check the status of your flight before leaving for the airport. You can do this on the airport's website or through your airline's website or app. It is also important to follow TSA guidelines and have all necessary documents and identification readily available. Finally, be sure to pack any liquids or gels in a clear, plastic bag and remove any electronic devices from your carry-on luggage to speed up the security screening process.
Security Wait Times
When traveling through FAI, it's important to budget your time wisely, especially when it comes to TSA Security wait times. The wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the number of passengers, but typically, it takes around 15-20 minutes to get through security. However, during peak travel times, such as holidays, the wait times can be longer. To ensure you have enough time to get through security and make your flight, it's recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time. You can check TSA Wait Times now, so you can budget how much time you need to get to the airport.
Maps, Airlines & Amenities
Fairbanks Airport (FAI) Terminals
Navigating FAI's Terminals
FAI Airport has one terminal building with two concourses: Concourse A and Concourse B. Concourse A has 5 gates and Concourse B has 4 gates. Major airlines such as Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines operate from this airport. Alaska Airlines uses gates in Concourse A, while Delta Airlines and United Airlines use gates in Concourse B.
Upon arrival, passengers can find baggage claim areas on the lower level of the terminal building. For departures, passengers can check-in at the ticket counters located on the upper level. Security checkpoints are also located on the upper level before entering the gate areas.
For those with layovers or waiting for their flights, there are various options for food and services within the terminal building. Concourse A offers a coffee shop, a restaurant, and a gift shop. Concourse B has a restaurant, a gift shop, and a duty-free store. There are also ATMs, charging stations, and free Wi-Fi available throughout the terminal building.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
The airport has one terminal building that serves all airlines and flights. The terminal is easily accessible from the parking lot, with a short walk time of approximately 5 minutes. There are no shuttle buses or trains available to transfer between terminals, as there is only one terminal at Fairbanks Airport. However, there are several amenities available within the terminal, including restaurants, shops, and restrooms, making it easy for travelers to pass the time before their flights.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Travelers passing through Fairbanks Airport will find a variety of dining and shopping options to choose from. For a quick bite, head to Subway, located in the main terminal near baggage claim. For something heartier, try The Local, a restaurant serving up classic American fare with a local twist. The Local is located in the North Terminal and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
If you're in the mood for some shopping, stop by the Alaska Marketplace in the main terminal. Here you'll find a variety of souvenirs, gifts, and locally made products. For outdoor enthusiasts, there's also a selection of camping and hiking gear available. Another great option is the Aurora Gifts store, located in the North Terminal. Here you'll find a wide selection of Alaskan-themed gifts and souvenirs, including handmade jewelry and artwork.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at FAI can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, find your choice of amenities here.
Airport Hotels
Discover the perfect accommodation for your next trip with our comprehensive guide to airport hotels. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly hostel, a comfortable motel, or a luxurious lodge, we've got you covered. Each hotel listed is within a short distance from the airport, offering a range of amenities such as complimentary WiFi, airport shuttle services, and on-site restaurants. From the modern aesthetics of The Garay with Contemporary Vibes Townhome to the riverside charm of the River's Edge Resort, these hotels offer comfort and convenience for all types of travelers. Ready to book your stay? View all FAI Airport Hotels now.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At the airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the terminal building. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, so drivers should not leave their vehicles unattended. The airport also provides a cell-phone waiting area where drivers can wait for their arriving passengers without having to park or circle around the terminal.
For those who need to park their vehicles, there are several parking options available at Fairbanks Airport. Short-term parking is located near the terminal building, while long-term parking is available in a separate lot with a complimentary shuttle service to the terminal. Passengers can also use ride-sharing services or taxis to get to and from the airport.
Parking Facilities & Options
When it comes to parking at Fairbanks Airport, travelers have a few options to choose from. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options, with both covered and uncovered parking garages available. The parking garages are located adjacent to the terminal, making it a convenient option for those who want to park their cars and walk straight to the airport.
For those who want to wait for their arriving passengers, the airport also offers a cell phone waiting area. This area is located just outside the airport terminal and is free to use for up to 30 minutes. It's a great option for those who want to avoid circling the airport while waiting for their loved ones to arrive.
Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas at FAI. These spaces are located close to the terminal and are clearly marked for easy identification.
For those who are looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available near the airport. These parking lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it a convenient option for travelers who want to save money on parking fees.
Get details about FAI parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
FAI Airport offers a variety of transportation options for travelers arriving at the airport. For those looking to rent a car, there are several car rental facilities located both on and off the airport grounds, including major providers such as Avis, Budget, and Hertz. Visitors can easily book a car rental in advance or upon arrival at the airport.
Taxi services are also available at the airport, with designated drop-off areas located outside of the terminal. Fare information can be obtained from the taxi dispatchers or online. Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available and can be accessed from designated pick-up areas outside of the terminal. However, it's important to note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers or amount of luggage allowed in shared ride vehicles.
For those looking for a more affordable option, the airport shuttle is a convenient choice. The shuttle service operates 24/7 and provides transportation to and from various locations in Fairbanks, including hotels and downtown. Fares vary based on the destination, but can be purchased in advance or at the airport upon arrival.
Finally, public transportation options are available for those looking to explore the city on a budget. The Fairbanks Metropolitan Area Transportation System (FMATS) offers bus service to and from the airport, with multiple routes available throughout the city. Visitors can purchase bus passes or pay with exact change upon boarding.
Passenger Services
Fairbanks Airport offers a variety of passenger services to ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience for all.
For those needing to stay connected, free WiFi is available throughout the airport. Lost and found services are also available at the airport, located near the baggage claim area.
Traveling with children? Fairbanks Airport has a designated children's play area located near the food court, equipped with toys and games to keep kids entertained before their flight. Special-needs services are also available upon request, including wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms.
For those needing to access banking services, there are ATMs located throughout the airport. Medical assistance is also available at the airport, with a first aid station located near the security checkpoint.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it is important to stay informed about the status of your flight at all times. At FAI, there are several ways to obtain up-to-date information about your flight.
One of the most convenient ways to check your flight status is by using the in-airport Flight Information Display System (FIDS). These displays can be found throughout the airport and provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Another helpful tool is to download your airline's mobile phone app. These apps often provide push notifications, text messages, or emails that alert you to any changes in your flight status, including departure delays, cancellations, or gate changes. Make sure to enable notifications in the app's settings to receive these updates.
Lastly, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at FAI Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com. This website provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information, ensuring that you stay informed throughout your travel experience.
By utilizing these resources, you can stay informed about your flight status and ensure a stress-free travel experience at the airport.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Fairbanks Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
Fairbanks Airport, located in the United States, is a major airport serving the state of Alaska. It is the second busiest airport in the state, after Anchorage International Airport. The airport has a single terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights.
On average, FAI handles around 1,500 passengers per day, with an average of 70 daily flights. The airport serves over 20 destinations, with the top 5 destinations being Seattle, Anchorage, Minneapolis, Denver, and Portland.
The top airlines with the most daily flights at FAI Airport are Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. These airlines connect Fairbanks with major cities across the United States and Canada.
The airport is also a hub for several air carriers, including Alaska Airlines and Wright Air Service. These airlines operate a number of flights to remote destinations across Alaska, providing essential transportation services to local communities.
Airport History
Fairbanks Airport, located in Fairbanks, Alaska, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in the early 20th century. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1929 - Fairbanks Airport is established as a landing strip for small aircraft.
- 1940s - The airport is expanded and upgraded to accommodate larger military aircraft during World War II.
- 1950s - The airport experiences a surge in commercial air traffic as Alaska becomes a popular destination for tourists.
- 1970s - The airport undergoes major renovations and expansions to modernize its facilities and increase its capacity.
- 1980s - FAI becomes a hub for cargo airlines, transporting goods to remote areas of Alaska.
- 1990s - The airport continues to grow and attract more airlines, offering more flights to destinations across the United States.
- 2000s - The airport introduces new technology and upgrades to improve safety and efficiency, including a new air traffic control tower.
- 2010s - FAI Airport celebrates its 80th anniversary and continues to serve as a vital transportation hub for Alaska and the surrounding region.
Today, the airport remains an important gateway to the Last Frontier, connecting travelers to the natural beauty and unique culture of Alaska.
Airport Contact Info
If you need to get in touch with Fairbanks Airport, you can use one of the following methods:
- Fairbanks Airport website
- Phone: (907) 474-2500
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: 6450 Airport Way, Suite 1, Fairbanks, AK 99709