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DRG → BKC
Which side of the plane to sit from Deering Airport (Deering) to Buckland Airport (Buckland)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an expansive view of the Kotzebue Sound and the transition from the Chukchi Sea to the Alaskan mainland, providing a superior sense of the region's coastal geography.
Kotzebue Sound
Breathtaking views of the vast Arctic waters and, depending on the season, intricate sea ice formations.
Baldwin Peninsula
Visible on the northern horizon, this peninsula separates the Kotzebue Sound from Hotham Inlet.
Eschscholtz Bay
The shallow, silt-rich bay where the Buckland River meets the sea, often showing unique sediment plumes.
Permafrost Lakes
A dense mosaic of thermokarst lakes and ponds pockmarking the flat tundra landscape.
Choose the left side for morning departures to enjoy the soft light reflecting off the water. In winter and early spring, look for the 'lead' lines and pressure ridges in the ice packs. This side provides the best perspective on how the Arctic ocean interacts with the land.
Seward Peninsula Uplands
The rolling, treeless hills of the interior Seward Peninsula rising to the southwest.
Buckland River Meanders
Deeply sinuous river curves and oxbow lakes that dominate the approach into Buckland Airport.
Elephant Point
A historic geographic landmark on the southern shore of the bay known for its unique geology.
Arctic Wildlife
Excellent vantage point for spotting caribou or muskox herds grazing on the tundra ridges.
The right side is better for those interested in the rugged, inland terrain. During the late afternoon, the low sun angle highlights the relief of the hills and the winding river path. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife movement, as bush planes on this route often fly at lower altitudes.
Distance: 74 km (46 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 min
Departure: DRG (66.0696029663, -162.76600647)
Arrival: BKC (65.9815979004, -161.149002075)
Route Type: Domestic
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