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OME destination photo
UNK destination photo

OMEUNK

Which side of the plane to sit from Nome Airport (Nome) to Unalakleet Airport (Unalakleet)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a front-row seat to the diverse topography of the Seward Peninsula, featuring the Darby Mountains and the winding river systems that define the coastal wilderness.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Darby Mountains

Rugged peaks that form a dramatic backdrop to the north as you depart the Nome area.

🏞️

Fish River Delta

An intricate network of waterways and wetlands near the village of White Mountain.

🧊

Coastal Tundra

A mosaic of permafrost lakes and golden grasslands that change color dramatically with the seasons.

🛤️

Iditarod Trail

Segments of the historic sled dog trail can be seen snaking along the coastline and inland valleys.

🎣

Unalakleet River

A winding, salmon-rich river that guides the aircraft into the final approach at UNK.

For the best photography, choose a morning flight when the sun illuminates the Darby Mountains. Keep an eye out for the transition from the flat tundra to the rolling foothills. In autumn, the tundra turns vibrant shades of red and orange, making the left side particularly scenic.

Right Side Highlights
8.0
🌊

Norton Sound

The vast, cold expanse of the Bering Sea stretching toward the horizon.

🏝️

Besboro Island

A striking, uninhabited island in Norton Sound that resembles a giant haystack or a breaching whale.

🌅

Coastal Cliffs

Rugged rock formations and steep drops near the village of Elim.

🐳

Marine Life

During summer months, keep an eye on the water for possible sightings of beluga whales near the coast.

❄️

Bering Sea Ice

In winter and spring, the right side offers incredible views of pack ice, pressure ridges, and open leads.

The right side is essential if you want to see Besboro Island, which is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the region. If flying during the winter, this is the side to be on to witness the power of the Bering Sea ice. Ensure your window is clear of frost for the best views of the horizon.

Top Activities in Unalakleet
Route Information

Distance: 235 km (146 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 24 min

Departure: OME (64.51219940185547, -165.44500732421875)

Arrival: UNK (63.88840103, -160.798996)

Route Type: Domestic

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