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ORV → OTZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Robert (Bob) Curtis Memorial Airport (Noorvik) to Ralph Wien Memorial Airport (Kotzebue)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the Noatak River Delta and the distant peaks of the Brooks Range, along with the expansive Kotzebue Sound upon arrival.
Noatak River Delta
One of the largest mountain-rimmed river basins in the world, showing spectacular braided channels near the coast.
Baird Mountains
To the north, the snowy peaks of the western Brooks Range provide a dramatic backdrop against the flat tundra.
Kotzebue Sound
Direct views of the gateway to the Chukchi Sea, which is often filled with sea ice until late spring.
Kotzebue Spit
A perfect view of the narrow gravel spit where the town of Kotzebue is located as you bank for landing.
Arctic Horizon
Vast, unobstructed views of the Arctic horizon, where the sun barely sets during the summer solstice.
This is a very short flight (approx. 15-20 minutes), so keep your camera ready from the moment of takeoff. Sit on the right for the best view of the Brooks Range and the Noatak Delta. In winter, look for tracks on the ice which are often winter trails used by snowmachines.
Hotham Inlet
Also known as Kobuk Lake, this massive brackish body of water dominates the southern view as you depart Noorvik.
Kobuk River Delta
Witness the intricate network of wetlands, sloughs, and marshes where the Kobuk River meets the sea.
Selawik Wildlife Refuge
Expansive views of the distant protected tundra, a critical habitat for migratory birds and caribou.
Baldwin Peninsula South
The low-lying hills of the peninsula come into view as the aircraft crosses from the mainland.
Watch for the unique 'pothole' lakes known as thermokarst lakes, which are especially visible in the summer months when the permafrost melts. Morning flights provide excellent soft lighting over the Hotham Inlet.
Distance: 69 km (43 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 min
Departure: ORV (66.81790161, -161.01899719999997)
Arrival: OTZ (66.88469696, -162.598999)
Route Type: Domestic
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