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AET destination photo
BTT destination photo

AETBTT

Which side of the plane to sit from Allakaket Airport (Allakaket) to Bettles Airport (Bettles)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most dramatic views of the rising foothills of the Brooks Range and the untouched wilderness of the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve boundary.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Brooks Range Foothills

Panoramic views of the jagged southern peaks of the central Brooks Range rising from the tundra.

🌲

Gates of the Arctic

Aerial perspective of the southernmost boundary of one of the United States' most remote National Parks.

🏞️

Alatna River Valley

The scenic valley where the Alatna River winds down from the mountains to join the Koyukuk basin.

❄️

Arctic Wilderness

Uninterrupted stretches of taiga forest and alpine tundra stretching toward the North Slope.

Sit on the left to capture the scale of the mountains. During winter months, the low angle of the sun creates dramatic shadows on the snow-covered peaks. In autumn, look for the stark contrast between the yellowing birch trees and the dark evergreen spruce.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🐍

Koyukuk River Meanders

Incredible views of the complex S-curves and oxbow lakes formed by the winding Koyukuk River.

🦆

Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge

Vast, watery landscapes that serve as a critical breeding ground for migratory birds and waterfowl.

🏗️

Allakaket/Alatna Villages

A unique look at the twin villages separated by the river shortly after takeoff from AET airport.

🛶

Traditional Fish Camps

Seasonal subsistence camps and small clearings used by locals along the riverbanks.

The right side is ideal for spotting wildlife such as moose near the riverbanks and oxbow lakes. Early morning flights offer spectacular reflections of the sky on the mirror-like water of the Kanuti wetlands. Use a polarizing filter if taking photos to cut through water glare.

Top Activities in Bettles
Route Information

Distance: 63 km (39 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 6 min

Departure: AET (66.5518035889, -152.621994019)

Arrival: BTT (66.91390228, -151.529007)

Route Type: Domestic

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