Loading map...

JAV destination photo
JUV destination photo

JAVJUV

Which side of the plane to sit from Ilulissat Airport (Ilulissat) to Upernavik Airport (Upernavik)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides an unparalleled view of the rugged Greenlandic mainland, featuring the edge of the massive inland ice sheet and dramatic fjord systems.

Right Side Highlights
9.5
❄️

Greenland Ice Sheet

The enormous, shimmering white expanse of the inland ice cap visible on the eastern horizon.

🏔️

Nuussuaq Peninsula

Dramatic mountain ranges and deep valleys crossing this large landmass as you fly north.

⛰️

Uummannaq Fjord System

Distant but spectacular views of the jagged peaks and frozen waterways of the Uummannaq region.

🧊

Coastal Glaciers

Numerous smaller glaciers flowing from the highland plateaus directly into the coastal fjords.

🏘️

Upernavik Archipelago

A stunning mosaic of rocky islands and narrow channels visible during the final descent into JUV.

The right side is superior for mountain scenery and viewing the ice sheet. For the best clarity, choose a seat away from the engine exhaust if flying on a Dash-8. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff to catch the immediate transition from the town of Ilulissat to the wild northern coast.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🧊

Iceberg Alley

Massive icebergs calved from the Ilulissat Icefjord drifting through the deep blue waters of Disko Bay.

🏔️

Disko Island

The distinctive basalt mountains of Qeqertarsuaq rising sharply from the sea to the west.

🌊

Baffin Bay

The vast expanse of the Arctic waters, often filled with pack ice or floes depending on the season.

🌅

Midnight Sun

During summer months, the low-hanging sun creates stunning reflections and colors across the water's surface.

Sit on the left if you want to track the movement of giant icebergs heading out to sea. This side is also best for evening flights to catch the Arctic sunset over the horizon. Use a polarized filter on your camera to reduce glare from the water and ice.

Top Activities in Upernavik
Route Information

Distance: 435 km (270 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 44 min

Departure: JAV (69.2432022095, -51.0570983887)

Arrival: JUV (72.79019927979999, -56.130599975600006)

Route Type: Domestic

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