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

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers superior views of the dramatic Kigluaik Mountains and the complex inland waterways of the Bering Land Bridge National Preserve, providing a more diverse landscape than the open sea.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Shishmaref Inlet

Intricate network of tidal lagoons and barrier islands visible immediately after takeoff from Sarichef Island.

🏔️

Bering Land Bridge

Expansive views of the National Preserve, featuring ancient volcanic fields and vast arctic tundra.

💧

Imuruk Basin

A large, shallow lake system that serves as a vital habitat for migratory birds and local wildlife.

⛰️

Kigluaik Mountains

The 'Sawtooth' peaks rising sharply from the tundra, offering the most dramatic vertical relief on the route.

🛶

Kuzitrin River

A highly serpentine river that winds through the permafrost landscape like a silver thread.

Choose the left side for morning flights to see the Kigluaik Mountains illuminated by the eastern sun. Polarized lenses are highly recommended to cut through the reflection of the numerous kettle lakes and thermokarst ponds visible throughout the flight.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🧊

Chukchi Sea Coast

The rugged western edge of the Seward Peninsula where the arctic tundra meets the sea.

🔭

Bering Strait Horizon

On exceptionally clear days, look west toward the narrow gap separating the North American and Asian continents.

🏞️

Sinuk River Delta

A scenic river mouth featuring braided channels as it empties into the Bering Sea.

🚢

Norton Sound

The final approach over the historic waters known for gold dredging and harsh arctic maritime conditions.

The right side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the Bering Sea. During winter and early spring, this side provides the best vantage point for observing pack ice formations and leads in the ocean water.

Top Activities in Nome
Route Information

Distance: 195 km (121 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 20 min

Departure: SHH (66.249604, -166.089112)

Arrival: OME (64.51219940185547, -165.44500732421875)

Route Type: Domestic

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