Getting Around, Fairbanks Travel, Transport and Car Rental

(Fairbanks, Alaska - AK, USA)

Fairbanks does have an international airport and receives flights from as far away as Europe and Asia, although the majority of arrivals in Fairbanks travel from Anchorage. The two cities are also connected by a good highway and rail transport, with trains that run to and from Fairbanks daily in the summer and on weekends in the winter.

Buses are another popular travel option in Fairbanks, as they are generally much cheaper than flying. Car hire is also widely offered in both cities.

Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) / Arriving by Air

Although most flights to Fairbanks are conducted by domestic and local charter carriers, Fairbanks does serve direct flights from Europe (summer), Asia (winter) and Canada, thus deserving its 'international' label. The majority of flights travel along routes between Anchorage and Fairbanks, however there are regular scheduled and charter flights to more remote Alaskan and Canadian regions. Domestic American carriers also have scheduled direct flights between Fairbanks and main airports in the lower 48 states. The airport is just 4 miles / 6 km southwest of town and ground transport is easily arranged, with free shuttles, taxis and car hire available.

Car Rental

Fairbanks has over 25 rental car transport agencies offering everything from normal cars to SUVs, RVs, trucks, vans and campers. All the major agents, such as Dollar, Thrifty, Budget, Hertz and Avis, are represented, reflecting the tendency of tourists to want the freedom to explore the Fairbanks region at their leisure.

Book your Fairbanks Car Rental here.

Buses and Coaches

Minibuses offer a comfortable and fast road link between Anchorage and Fairbanks, and are much cheaper than flying or taking the train. MACS (Metropolitan Area Commuter System) buses travel infrequently along a number of routes around Fairbanks, and getting around the town is fairly simple for those without their own wheels. Shuttle service companies around Fairbanks provide daily scheduled transportation throughout Alaska and the Yukon. State-wide charter services can also be arranged. The hub of the state-wide bus operations is located at the Downtown Transportation Center and Parking Garage.

Trains

The Alaska Railroad operates daily summer trains and weekend winter trains along the Anchorage to Fairbanks line. In summer, the train stops at the entrance to Denali National Park. The Fairbanks Train Station is located downtown at 280 North Cushman Road.

Taxis

Taxis are available everywhere throughout Fairbanks, either flagged down or at designated stands. With Fairbanks being a compact town, it is quite feasible to travel around solely by taxi for those not wanting to wait for buses.