While the takeoff favors the right side, the landing approach provides more dramatic and sustained views of the Chugach Mountains, Turnagain Arm, and Anchorage's striking geography. The left side captures the most visually compelling portion of this short flight.
Flown CDV to ANC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Cordova to Anchorage is 159 miles (256 km), a flight of about 45 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Chugach Mountains and follows the eastern shore of Cook Inlet. Notable features include the Copper River delta (departure), the Chugach Mountain range (throughout), Turnagain Arm (approach), and the transition from coastal wilderness to the Anchorage metropolitan area.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from CDV
RIGHTClimbing out of Cordova, a right-side seat offers views of the Chugach Mountains and the Copper River delta as the aircraft gains altitude. The left side faces inland terrain with less dramatic relief.
Landing at ANC
LEFTDescending into Anchorage from the southeast, left-side seats provide excellent views of the Chugach Mountains, Turnagain Arm, and the city's position on Cook Inlet. Right-side views face the less dramatic inland terrain.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Merle K Mudhole Smith (CDV) to Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Cordova to Anchorage. While the takeoff favors the right side, the landing approach provides more dramatic and sustained views of the Chugach Mountains, Turnagain Arm, and Anchorage's striking geography. The left side captures the most visually compelling portion of this short flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Merle K Mudhole Smith in Cordova?
During takeoff from Merle K Mudhole Smith (CDV), sit on the Right side for the best views. Climbing out of Cordova, a right-side seat offers views of the Chugach Mountains and the Copper River delta as the aircraft gains altitude. The left side faces inland terrain with less dramatic relief. Notable sights include: Chugach Mountains (southeast), Copper River delta and wetlands (south), Prince William Sound (distant southeast), Eyak Lake (immediate vicinity).
What can I see when landing at Ted Stevens Anchorage International in Anchorage?
When landing at Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC), sit on the Left side for the best views. Descending into Anchorage from the southeast, left-side seats provide excellent views of the Chugach Mountains, Turnagain Arm, and the city's position on Cook Inlet. Right-side views face the less dramatic inland terrain. Notable sights include: Chugach Mountains (south and southeast), Turnagain Arm (west), Cook Inlet (northwest), Anchorage city and port facilities (north).
How long is the flight from Cordova to Anchorage?
The flight from Merle K Mudhole Smith (CDV) to Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC) takes about 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 159 miles (256 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Cordova to Anchorage flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Chugach Mountains and follows the eastern shore of Cook Inlet. Notable features include the Copper River delta (departure), the Chugach Mountain range (throughout), Turnagain Arm (approach), and the transition from coastal wilderness to the Anchorage metropolitan area.