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ELI destination photo
KKA destination photo

ELIKKA

Which side of the plane to sit from Elim Airport (Elim) to Koyuk Alfred Adams Airport (Koyuk)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a front-row seat to the dramatic Norton Bay coastline and the complex river delta systems unique to the Seward Peninsula.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Norton Bay

Sweeping views of the northernmost reaches of the Bering Sea, often filled with unique light reflections.

🏖️

Seward Peninsula Shoreline

The dramatic meeting point of the rocky Alaskan coast and the sub-arctic waters.

🦅

Koyuk River Delta

An intricate network of braided channels and silty deposits visible during the final descent into KKA.

❄️

Winter Pack Ice

Between November and May, witness the massive, shifting pressure ridges and leads in the sea ice.

The right side is superior for coastal viewing. During winter, look for the dark 'leads' or open water cracks in the sea ice. On the final approach to Koyuk, watch the right side for the massive mudflats and the specific point where the Koyuk River creates a distinct silt plume into the bay.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏔️

Kwiktalik Mountains

Rugged, low-altitude peaks of the Seward Peninsula rising sharply from the coastal plain.

💧

Kettle Lakes

A dense mosaic of thousands of small, sparkling arctic lakes formed by glacial thermokarst.

🌿

Vast Arctic Tundra

Expansive treeless plains that change from vibrant greens to deep reds during the short autumn.

🦌

Interior Wildlife Paths

Visible migratory trails used by caribou herds and muskox across the mossy landscape.

Sit on the left for the best morning light on the Kwiktalik Mountains. Look for the distinct kettle lakes that dot the interior Seward Peninsula; these are particularly striking during the fall 'tundra fire' colors in late August. Since this is a very short flight, keep your camera ready from the moment of takeoff.

Top Activities in Koyuk
Route Information

Distance: 64 km (40 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 6 min

Departure: ELI (64.61470032, -162.2720032)

Arrival: KKA (64.9394989014, -161.154006958)

Route Type: Domestic

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