Loading map...

PYJ destination photo
YKS destination photo

PYJYKS

Which side of the plane to sit from Polyarny Airport (Yakutia) to Yakutsk Airport (Yakutsk)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a dramatic view of the massive Udachnaya diamond pipe immediately after takeoff and superior perspectives of the braided Lena River channels during the final approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
💎

Udachnaya Pipe

The colossal open-pit diamond mine visible shortly after departing Polyarny Airport.

🌊

Vilyuy Reservoir

A glimpse of the massive man-made sea and its surrounding hydroelectric infrastructure.

⚪

Alas Landscapes

Unique thermokarst depressions forming circular meadows and lakes typical of Yakutia.

🚢

Lena River Braids

The breathtaking sight of one of the world's largest rivers splitting into dozens of channels.

🌆

Yakutsk Cityscape

A full view of the world's largest city built on continuous permafrost as you land.

This is the premier side for photographers. Keep your camera ready immediately after takeoff to capture the scale of the diamond mines. During descent, look for the 'braided' appearance of the Lena River; the sunlight reflection on the water is most stunning in the late afternoon. Winter flights offer a surreal 'ice fog' view over the city.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌲

Siberian Taiga

Endless stretches of larch forests that dominate the Sakha Republic's landscape.

🏔️

Vilyuy Plateau

The elevated, ancient terrain of Northern Yakutia with its unique geological patterns.

💧

Markha River

Aerial view of the winding blue waters of a major Vilyuy River tributary.

🧊

Permafrost Features

Distinctive polygonal ground patterns caused by the underlying permafrost.

🏙️

Yakutsk East Bank

The floodplains and distant settlements across the Lena River from the city.

Sit on this side for early morning flights to see the sun rising over the boundless wilderness. Pay attention to the intricate network of frozen streams in winter, which create shimmering silver patterns across the landscape. The view is best during the mid-flight cruise for pure nature enthusiasts.

Top Activities in Yakutsk
Route Information

Distance: 977 km (607 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min

Departure: PYJ (66.4003982544, 112.029998779)

Arrival: YKS (62.093299865722656, 129.77099609375)

Route Type: Domestic

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