Anchorage to Valdez is 125 miles (201 km), a flight of about 55 minutes.
The landing approach over Prince William Sound and the dramatic Chugach coastal terrain provides more visually distinctive geography than the takeoff. Right-side seats capture the sound's complex island geography and glacier systems throughout the descent.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the Chugach Mountains trending southeast from Anchorage toward Valdez. Notable midpoint features include the Copper River drainage system visible below, multiple glacier valleys cutting through the range, and the transition from the Knik Arm/Cook Inlet system to Prince William Sound. The Talkeetna Mountains appear to the west during initial climb. The route follows a relatively direct southeast heading over mountainous terrain with no major cities or towns visible between departure and arrival.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ANC
LEFTANC typically departs north or northeast. Left-side seats capture the Chugach Mountains immediately adjacent to the airport and the sprawl of Anchorage itself. Right side faces Cook Inlet water and distant features.
Landing at VDZ
RIGHTApproach to VDZ typically comes from the south or southwest over Prince William Sound. Right-side seats face the sound's waters, glaciated peaks, and the dramatic coastal terrain. Left side shows inland forested valleys with less visual interest.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC) to Valdez Pioneer Field (VDZ)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Anchorage to Valdez. The landing approach over Prince William Sound and the dramatic Chugach coastal terrain provides more visually distinctive geography than the takeoff. Right-side seats capture the sound's complex island geography and glacier systems throughout the descent.
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. ANC typically departs north or northeast. Left-side seats capture the Chugach Mountains immediately adjacent to the airport and the sprawl of Anchorage itself. Right side faces Cook Inlet water and distant features. Notable sights include: Chugach Mountains (immediate eastern backdrop), Anchorage city grid and port facilities, Cook Inlet to the west, Knik Arm to the north.
What can I see when landing at Valdez Pioneer Field in Valdez?
When landing at Valdez Pioneer Field (VDZ), sit on the Right side for the best views. Approach to VDZ typically comes from the south or southwest over Prince William Sound. Right-side seats face the sound's waters, glaciated peaks, and the dramatic coastal terrain. Left side shows inland forested valleys with less visual interest. Notable sights include: Prince William Sound (water body), Chugach Mountains (snow-covered peaks), Valdez Arm (the fjord leading to airport), coastal glacier systems.
How long is the flight from Anchorage to Valdez?
The flight from Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC) to Valdez Pioneer Field (VDZ) takes about 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 125 miles (201 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Anchorage to Valdez flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Chugach Mountains trending southeast from Anchorage toward Valdez. Notable midpoint features include the Copper River drainage system visible below, multiple glacier valleys cutting through the range, and the transition from the Knik Arm/Cook Inlet system to Prince William Sound. The Talkeetna Mountains appear to the west during initial climb. The route follows a relatively direct southeast heading over mountainous terrain with no major cities or towns visible between departure and arrival.