Left side scores higher due to superior takeoff experience from Anchorage—the dramatic Chugach Mountains, Cook Inlet, and coastal geography provide more visual interest than the relatively flat approach into Copenhagen. While Copenhagen's landing offers harbor views, the cruise phase over the Arctic Ocean and northern Canada/Greenland favors the left side's positioning for any visible landmass. The takeoff advantage outweighs the landing disadvantage.
Flown ANC to CPH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Anchorage to Copenhagen is 4,312 miles (6,939 km), a flight of about 7 hours 15 minutes.
Arctic Ocean (5+ hours of open water dominates cruise phase), Greenland's eastern coast and ice sheet (visible on left side during northbound routing), Canadian Arctic Archipelago islands (Ellesmere, Devon, Baffin—visible on left during descent toward Atlantic), Norwegian Sea and North Atlantic (final cruise segment before European descent)
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ANC
LEFTLeft side captures Anchorage's harbor and coastal geography during initial climb. Departures typically turn north or northeast from runways 07L/07R, offering views of Cook Inlet, the Chugach Mountains to the east, and the urban sprawl of Anchorage below.
Landing at CPH
RIGHTRight side benefits from Copenhagen's approach geometry. Arrivals typically descend from the northwest and turn south or southeast toward runways 22L/22R, providing views of the Øresund Strait, Swedish coast, and the greater Copenhagen metropolitan area including harbors and urban development.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC) to Kastrup (CPH)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Anchorage to Copenhagen. Left side scores higher due to superior takeoff experience from Anchorage—the dramatic Chugach Mountains, Cook Inlet, and coastal geography provide more visual interest than the relatively flat approach into Copenhagen. While Copenhagen's landing offers harbor views, the cruise phase over the Arctic Ocean and northern Canada/Greenland favors the left side's positioning for any visible landmass. The takeoff advantage outweighs the landing disadvantage.
What can I see during takeoff from Ted Stevens Anchorage International in Anchorage?
During takeoff from Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures Anchorage's harbor and coastal geography during initial climb. Departures typically turn north or northeast from runways 07L/07R, offering views of Cook Inlet, the Chugach Mountains to the east, and the urban sprawl of Anchorage below. Notable sights include: Cook Inlet (major water body west of airport), Chugach Mountains (eastern backdrop), Anchorage downtown and port facilities, Knik Arm (northern inlet extension).
What can I see when landing at Kastrup in Copenhagen?
When landing at Kastrup (CPH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side benefits from Copenhagen's approach geometry. Arrivals typically descend from the northwest and turn south or southeast toward runways 22L/22R, providing views of the Øresund Strait, Swedish coast, and the greater Copenhagen metropolitan area including harbors and urban development. Notable sights include: Øresund Strait (water body between Denmark and Sweden), Swedish coast and Scania region (visible across strait), Copenhagen harbor and Amager Island, Malmö city (Swedish side, visible across water).
How long is the flight from Anchorage to Copenhagen?
The flight from Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC) to Kastrup (CPH) takes about 7 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 4,312 miles (6,939 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Anchorage to Copenhagen flight path pass over?
Arctic Ocean (5+ hours of open water dominates cruise phase), Greenland's eastern coast and ice sheet (visible on left side during northbound routing), Canadian Arctic Archipelago islands (Ellesmere, Devon, Baffin—visible on left during descent toward Atlantic), Norwegian Sea and North Atlantic (final cruise segment before European descent)