Loading map...

DUT destination photo
KQA destination photo

DUTKQA

Which side of the plane to sit from Unalaska Airport (Unalaska) to Akutan Seaplane Base (Akutan)?

Our Recommendation
9.4

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the historic town of Unalaska and the iconic Russian Orthodox cathedral, followed by a dramatic approach into the mountainous Akutan harbor.

Right Side Highlights
9.4
⛪️

Holy Ascension Cathedral

The historic Russian Orthodox church with its distinctive green onion domes is visible just seconds after departure.

⚓️

Dutch Harbor

A spectacular bird's-eye view of the massive fishing fleet and the industrial heart of the Aleutian chain.

🔥

Akutan Volcano

One of the most active volcanoes in Alaska, often seen venting steam from its central caldera during descent.

🐋

Akutan Bay

The scenic approach into the seaplane base where you might spot humpback whales or sea lions in the deep harbor.

Prepare your camera immediately upon takeoff to capture the Unalaska townsite and the cathedral. As the plane descends low into Akutan, keep a sharp eye on the shoreline for historical relics and marine life near the old whaling station.

Left Side Highlights
8.9
🌋

Mount Makushin

A massive, snow-covered stratovolcano that dominates the western horizon of Unalaska Island shortly after takeoff.

🌊

Bering Sea

The deep, turbulent waters of the North Pacific meeting the Bering Sea at the rugged island edges.

⛰

Priest Rock

An iconic, solitary sea stack standing guard at the northern entrance of Unalaska Bay.

🦅

Aleutian Tundra

Vast stretches of treeless, emerald-green hills that look like a prehistoric, untouched landscape.

Sit on this side for the best chance to see the volcanic peak of Makushin. Morning flights often provide the clearest air before the afternoon 'williwaws' (strong winds) and maritime fog roll in.

Top Activities in Akutan
Route Information

Distance: 56 km (35 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 6 min

Departure: DUT (53.900100708, -166.54400634799998)

Arrival: KQA (54.1337704415, -165.77889561700002)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.