From the perspective of aviation enthusiasts, what better settings are there than watching planes at an airport nestled between mountains and lakes?

Ted Stevens International Airport in Anchorage, Alaska, provides just that, putting it near the top of any plane spotter’s bucket list. Thanks to its geography, Anchorage is a key cargo hub for goods transported between Asia and North America. In fact, Anchorage is the fourth-busiest cargo airport worldwide and sees a diverse range of airlines and aircraft, much to the delight of “avgeeks.”

Another positive: stunning views of Alaska’s mountains as a backdrop to arriving and departing planes. Additionally, nearby Lake Hood hosts float plane traffic that can be seen landing on the water or taking off into the Alaskan wilderness.

Matthew Slafka took advantage of Anchorage’s bustling traffic and caught an Atlas Air Boeing 747-400F being pushed back by ground crews for departure. Fittingly, he also captured the mountains cast with white patches of snow and looming behind the big jet. It’s not easy to find anything that can dwarf a Boeing 747.

While Pittsburgh doesn’t have high altitude mountains to offer, it is proud to have its own Mt. Washington, a must-visit for tourists and photographers to experience and capture signature views of the city.

Depending on your luck, passengers arriving at Pittsburgh International Airport can get an even better view of Mt. Washington and downtown from their window seats like Brian Hoebel did on a recent Southwest Airlines flight.

Thanks, Matthew and Brian!

Our readers continue to pass along shots of unique aircraft, international airports, historical events, gorgeous views and even family vacation photos for this feature. We love them! Keep them coming—you can click here for submission guidelines.

A Southwest Airlines flight flies past downtown Pittsburgh, Mt. Washington and surrounding suburbs while on final approach to Pittsburgh International Airport. (Photo submitted by Brian Hoebel)