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IKS destination photo
YKS destination photo

IKSYKS

Which side of the plane to sit from Tiksi Airport (Tiksi) to Yakutsk Airport (Yakutsk)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side of the aircraft provides an incredible perspective of the Lena River, one of the world's longest waterways, as the flight tracks its course southward. You will witness the transition from the massive arctic delta to the intricate braided channels and the unique 'alas' lake formations of the Central Yakutian Lowland.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🌿

Lena Delta

A sprawling network of thousands of islands and channels where the Lena River meets the Arctic Ocean.

🚢

Braided Lena River

The primary river channel, which can be several kilometers wide, featuring complex patterns of shifting silt and sandbars.

📉

Thermokarst Lakes

Thousands of circular 'alas' lakes formed by melting ground ice, creating a Swiss-cheese appearance across the tundra.

🏙️

Yakutsk Approach

A clear view of the city of Yakutsk, the largest city built on continuous permafrost, as you descend into the valley.

Choose the right side to stay oriented with the Lena River throughout the flight. In summer, the 'Midnight Sun' provides 24-hour visibility, making the river's turquoise and brown sediment swirls particularly vibrant. Keep your camera ready during the final 20 minutes of the flight for the best views of the Siberian lowland topography.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌊

Tiksi Bay

The icy, deep blue waters of the Laptev Sea and the rugged coastline of the Buor-Khaya Gulf during takeoff.

🏔️

Verkhoyansk Range

Dramatic views of the jagged, snow-capped peaks to the east, known as the coldest inhabited region in the Northern Hemisphere.

❄️

Permafrost Polygons

Intricate geometric patterns in the earth created by the freezing and thawing of the underlying permafrost layer.

💧

Aldan River Confluence

The massive junction where the Aldan River meets the Lena, creating a vast expanse of water and shifting sandbars.

The left side is best for capturing the dramatic shadows of the Verkhoyansk Mountains during the morning or late afternoon. If flying during the winter, the low sun angle creates stunning contrast on the snow-covered ridges. Be aware that during the height of winter, this route may be in partial or total darkness.

Top Activities in Yakutsk
Route Information

Distance: 1,069 km (664 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 26 min

Departure: IKS (71.69770050048801, 128.90299987793)

Arrival: YKS (62.093299865722656, 129.77099609375)

Route Type: Domestic

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