How to get from airport to Alaska Railroad station

Question

We plan on flying into Fairbanks airport, rent a car, sightsee area for 3 days, return car to airport then go to train station for rail trip to Anchorage. I find no listing for taxi or Uber so how can we get from airport to station after returning rental car at airport?

Answer

Getting from Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) to the Alaska Railroad station after returning your rental car is straightforward, but there are a few things to plan since options like Uber and Lyft are limited in Fairbanks.

Here are your main options:

Taxi: Fairbanks has several local taxi companies that serve the airport. You can request a taxi at the airport taxi stand or call ahead. Some options include Fairbanks Yellow Cab and Airport Taxi. Expect a 5–10 minute ride to the Alaska Railroad station, depending on traffic.
Hotel Shuttle: If you’re staying at a hotel before your train departure, some hotels offer shuttles to the Alaska Railroad station. This could be a convenient option if your schedule aligns.
Pre-Booked Private Shuttle: You can book a private transfer in advance. Companies like Fairbanks Shuttle & Tours offer airport-to-station transfers and can be reserved online. This is often the most reliable if your flight or rental return timing is tight.

Additional considerations:

After returning your rental car, confirm whether the rental agency provides a shuttle to the terminal. If so, you may need to walk outside to meet your taxi or pre-arranged shuttle.
The Alaska Railroad station is located about 5–6 miles from the airport, so travel time is roughly 10–15 minutes by car.
If you are traveling during peak season, it is recommended to book your shuttle or taxi in advance to ensure timely arrival for your train departure.

In summary, while Uber and Lyft options are limited, taxis and pre-booked shuttles are reliable ways to get from Fairbanks airport to the Alaska Railroad station, especially after returning a rental car.