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NAQ destination photo
THU destination photo

NAQTHU

Which side of the plane to sit from Qaanaaq Airport (Qaanaaq) to Thule Air Base (Thule)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers an unparalleled view of the Greenland Ice Sheet and the dramatic glacial valleys that carve through the landscape toward the coast.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🧊

Greenland Ice Sheet

Vast, seemingly infinite views of the inland ice cap stretching toward the interior of the island.

🏔️

Inglefield Fjord

Deep, frozen fjord systems with massive glaciers flowing directly into the sea from the highlands.

🗻

Mount Dundas (Uummannaq)

The iconic flat-topped landmark located near the Thule Air Base, visible during the final descent.

🌨️

Arctic Tundra Patterns

Intricate permafrost polygons and seasonal meltwater channels visible on the barren landscape below.

Sit on the left side to witness the transition from the high-altitude ice sheet to the coastal fjords. Early morning flights provide dramatic shadows on the glacial crevasses. As the flight is very short, keep your camera ready from takeoff to landing.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🌊

Baffin Bay

Expansive views of the North Water Polynya, an area of open water surrounded by sea ice.

🧊

Iceberg Alley

Look down to see massive icebergs that have calved from northern glaciers drifting south.

🏝️

Herbert Island

A stark, uninhabited island with vertical cliffs rising sharply from the dark Arctic waters.

🚢

North Star Bay

The coastal waters surrounding Pituffik, often filled with pack ice or supply vessels in summer.

The right side is superior for spotting marine life and icebergs. During the summer months, the 'Midnight Sun' reflects brilliantly off the water on this side. If the weather is clear, you may see the distant outlines of Ellesmere Island, Canada, across the Smith Sound.

Top Activities in Thule
Route Information

Distance: 108 km (67 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 11 min

Departure: NAQ (77.4886016846, -69.3887023926)

Arrival: THU (76.5311965942, -68.70320129390001)

Route Type: Domestic

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