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BTT destination photo
AET destination photo

BTTAET

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

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the southern foothills of the Brooks Range and the dramatic entry into the Alatna River drainage area before landing.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Brooks Range Vistas

Distant but majestic views of the Endicott Mountains, part of the northernmost major mountain range in North America.

🏞️

Alatna River Valley

The confluence of the Alatna and Koyukuk rivers provides a stunning geographic focal point during the descent.

❄️

Gates of the Arctic

Views looking north toward one of the most remote and untouched national parks in the United States.

🏠

Allakaket Village

A birds-eye view of the remote Athabascan and Inupiaq settlement as the aircraft aligns for the final approach.

Sit on the right for the best mountain photography. Since this is a short flight at lower altitudes, the terrain features are highly detailed. In winter, the low-angle sun illuminates the Brooks Range peaks in shades of pink and orange (Alpenglow).

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🐍

Koyukuk River Meanders

Witness the extreme oxbow loops and complex river patterns of the Koyukuk River as it snakes through the valley.

🦌

Kanuti Wildlife Refuge

Expansive views of the northern edge of the Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge, a prime habitat for migratory birds and moose.

💧

Oxbow Lakes

Numerous crescent-shaped lakes formed by historical river path changes, dotting the landscape like gems.

🌲

Arctic Taiga

Stretches of black spruce and permafrost-affected forest typical of the Interior Alaska landscape.

This side is ideal for spotting river wildlife and observing the hydrologic patterns of the Koyukuk. Late summer offers vibrant tundra colors. Keep your eyes low to the horizon to spot large mammals near the water edges.

Top Activities in Allakaket
Route Information

Distance: 63 km (39 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 6 min

Departure: BTT (66.91390228, -151.529007)

Arrival: AET (66.5518035889, -152.621994019)

Route Type: Domestic

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