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ANI â RSH
Which side of the plane to sit from Aniak Airport (Aniak) to Russian Mission Airport (Russian Mission)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the massive Yukon River and the dramatic hills surrounding the Russian Mission village as you descend, providing a clearer look at the inland wilderness topography.
Taiga Forest Canopy
Dense clusters of black spruce and birch trees that dominate the higher ground between the river systems.
Aniak River Valley
The confluence where the clearer Aniak River water meets the sediment-heavy Kuskokwim.
The Mighty Yukon
One of North America's longest rivers comes into view as a massive, sweeping waterway near the destination.
Russian Mission Approach
Excellent views of the historic hillside village and the Russian Orthodox church landmarks upon landing.
The right side is essential for seeing the village layout of Russian Mission. Since these flights are often in small Cessna aircraft at low altitudes, the terrain detail is exceptional. Keep your camera ready for the final 5 minutes of flight as the aircraft crosses the bluffs near the Yukon River.
Kuskokwim River Meanders
Intricate oxbow lakes and silver water loops immediately visible after departing Aniak.
Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta
A vast, flat expanse of wetlands and small kettle ponds stretching toward the Bering Sea.
Subarctic Tundra
Views of the mossy, low-lying landscape that changes from vibrant green in summer to deep gold in autumn.
Remote Bush Strips
Glimpses of unpaved wilderness trails and small hunting camps hidden in the brush.
Sit on the left for the best morning light when flying west to avoid glare. Watch for the dramatic transition from the Kuskokwim riverbed to the marshy interior. In late spring (May), look for 'ice runs' where giant chunks of river ice break apart and flow downstream.
Distance: 96 km (60 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 min
Departure: ANI (61.58160018920898, -159.54299926757812)
Arrival: RSH (61.7788848877, -161.319458008)
Route Type: Domestic
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