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KWN destination photo
BET destination photo

KWNBET

Which side of the plane to sit from Quinhagak Airport (Quinhagak) to Bethel Airport (Bethel)?

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the most dramatic views of the Kuskokwim Bay coastline and the complex, vein-like structures of the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta wetlands.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

Kuskokwim Bay Coastline

Dramatic views of the rugged, marshy edge where the tundra meets the Bering Sea shortly after takeoff.

🦅

Eek River Meanders

The intricate, winding path of the Eek River as it flows through the vast alluvial plain.

🌾

Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta

One of the world's largest river deltas, appearing as a massive mosaic of water and land.

🧊

Seasonal Sea Ice

During winter months, witness the shifting pack ice and frozen coastal formations along the bay.

Sit on the left for the best coastal views immediately following departure from Quinhagak. Morning flights are ideal to avoid the sun's glare reflecting off the myriad of lakes and the Bering Sea. Keep your camera ready for the unique 'braided' patterns of the delta waterways which are best captured from a window seat forward of the wing.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏔️

Kilbuk Mountains

On clear days, the distant peaks of the Kilbuk and Ahklun Mountains are visible to the east.

💧

Tundra Kettle Lakes

An endless expanse of thousands of small, circular lakes pockmarking the permafrost landscape.

🏠

Bethel Townsite

A clear view of the regional hub of Bethel and its colorful buildings during the final descent.

🛶

Kwethluk River

A prominent tributary that guides the flight path toward the Kuskokwim River junction.

The right side is excellent for spotting the distant mountain ranges to the east on high-visibility days. During the final approach into Bethel, this side typically offers a better view of the town's layout and the Kuskokwim River's massive bend. Afternoon flights provide warm, golden light over the tundra, highlighting the texture of the moss and lichen.

Top Activities in Bethel
Route Information

Distance: 114 km (71 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 11 min

Departure: KWN (59.7551, -161.845)

Arrival: BET (60.77980042, -161.8379974)

Route Type: Domestic

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