Alaska Airlines from Merle K. (Mudhole) Smith Airport to Syracuse Hancock International Airport

Alaska, the United States' largest state by far, is a land of superlatives. Boasting over 180,000 square miles of public land, it offers an expanse of untouched wilderness and undisturbed wildlife that is unlike any other. Moreover, the fact that it is the only US state to have coastlines on three different seas – the Arctic Ocean, Pacific Ocean, and Bering Sea – attests to its majesty and maritime prowess.

With this in mind, there is perhaps no better way to embrace the unique character of The Last Frontier than to fly from Merle K. (Mudhole) Smith Airport, located in the quaint town of Cordova, to Syracuse Hancock International Airport. Not only does this route offer an opportunity to experience Alaska’s unparalleled beauty from above, but it also caters for an array of flying preferences with a rich mixture of direct flights, one-way fares, round-trip deals, and diverse flight schedules.

Due to the remote nature of Mudhole Smith Airport, travelers often begin their journey with connecting flights. Embracing a layover can significantly reduce the airfare compared to non-stop, direct routes. Additionally, these connections often fly through some of America's most bustling airports, offering a contrasting travel experience to the serene Cordova locale. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, for instance, is a common layover destination and boasts an array of premium facilities for business class and first-class ticket holders.

Flight duration can vary significantly based on the number and length of layovers. Still, a non-stop flight from Mudhole Smith to Syracuse Hancock averages around 8 hours. Airlines often use this prolonged duration to impress their passengers with an array of in-flight services, including Wi-Fi, on-demand entertainment, and a menu that caters to an array of dietary standards.

It’s essential for passengers to be aware of the airline’s baggage allowance. Each airline has a unique policy concerning luggage size, weight, and number. These policies can vary significantly, and extra fees can be imposed for excess baggage. Therefore, it's prudent to check your airline's baggage specifications ahead of your scheduled departure. Infrequent flyers are advised to opt for the airlines offering lenient baggage allowances, although joining a mileage program can help frequent flyers accumulate points for baggage fees amongst other perks.

Several airlines operate the Cordova to Syracuse route, and while the majority offer flights in the economy class, there is also the premium economy — a perfect blend of affordability and comfort. However, these choices are contingent on the specific airline as some are focused on low-cost, no-frills transportation; thus, their economy class may skimp on certain amenities. The issue of customer service and quality, therefore, underscores the importance of looking into airline reviews prior to making a booking.

Speaking of bookings, timing is everything. The best time to book can often be a subjective matter, influenced by the demand, time of year, and specific airline policies. Seasoned travelers often recommend booking in advance to secure cheap flights, although last-minute flights can sometimes unearth some unexpected deals.

Alaska’s unpredictable weather can also lead to flight cancellations. Therefore, it is necessary to review an airline's flight cancellation policy before purchasing a ticket. This policy usually outlines the refund and rebooking procedures in the event of unexpected cancellations or serious delays.

In short, flying from Cordova to Syracuse offers varied flight options and an opportunity to experience the raw, untouched beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. It's a journey that can suit all travel preferences and budgets - and one that will reward with memories and experiences that are as enduring as the Alaskan ranges themselves.