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BET → CYF
Which side of the plane to sit from Bethel Airport (Bethel) to Chefornak Airport (Chefornak)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for witnessing the complex hydrology of the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta and the transition from inland tundra to the coastal marshes of the Bering Sea.
Johnson River Braids
Excellent views of the Johnson River's intricate network of channels branching out across the flat landscape.
Bering Sea Coastline
As the flight nears Chefornak, the horizon opens up to the vastness of the Bering Sea and the Etolin Strait.
Kinak River Delta
The plane follows the general path of the Kinak River, showing how the freshwater meets the tidal influences of the coast.
Permafrost Patterns
Look for polygonal ground patterns caused by freeze-thaw cycles, most visible during late spring when snow remains in the crevices.
The right side is ideal for the descent into Chefornak, as the village and its airstrip often appear on this side during the final approach. Polarized sunglasses are essential to reduce the intense glare from the water-soaked landscape. In winter, look for the stark contrast of frozen river tracks used by snowmachines.
Kuskokwim River Curves
Witness the massive, sweeping meanders of the Kuskokwim River as you depart Bethel, showcasing intense oxbow formations.
Tundra Mosaic
An endless expanse of subarctic tundra dotted with thousands of small thermokarst lakes that shimmer in the sunlight.
Eek River Estuary
A view of the winding Eek River as it flows toward the Kuskokwim Bay, highlighting the flat, water-dominated landscape.
Kilbuck Mountain Horizon
On very clear days, the faint silhouettes of the Kilbuck Mountains can be seen far to the southeast across the delta.
Sit on the left for the best views of the initial climb out of Bethel. Use a fast shutter speed on your camera to capture the intricate water patterns without blur from the vibration of smaller propeller aircraft typically used on this route. Early morning flights provide beautiful reflections off the many thousands of ponds.
Distance: 151 km (94 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 15 min
Departure: BET (60.77980042, -161.8379974)
Arrival: CYF (60.1492004395, -164.285995483)
Route Type: Domestic
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