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YFB destination photo
YAB destination photo

YFB β†’ YAB

Which side of the plane to sit from Iqaluit Airport (Iqaluit) to Old Arctic Bay Airport (Arctic Bay)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers unparalleled views of the rugged Arctic Cordillera mountain range, the ancient Barnes Ice Cap, and the dramatic fjords of the northern Baffin coastline.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
πŸ”οΈ

Arctic Cordillera

Witness the dramatic peaks and jagged ridges of the mountain spine that runs along the eastern edge of Baffin Island.

❄️

Barnes Ice Cap

A rare opportunity to see this massive, ancient dome of ice, a remnant of the Laurentide Ice Sheet from the last ice age.

🧊

Penny Ice Cap

Look southeast early in the flight for the sprawling glaciers of Auyuittuq National Park glinting in the sun.

🌊

Admiralty Inlet

The final approach features the deep, dark waters of this massive fjord flanked by sheer sedimentary cliffs.

🏒

Nanisivik Mine Site

Identify the remains of the former mining town near Arctic Bay, showcasing the region's industrial history.

The right side is essential for glacier enthusiasts. For the best lighting on the ice caps, a morning flight is ideal to catch the eastern sun illuminating the crevasses. In the winter months, watch for the aurora borealis if flying in the dark, as the northern horizon is often visible.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

Nettilling Lake

View the massive expanse of the largest lake on Baffin Island, which remains frozen for much of the year.

🦌

Amadjuak Lake

Look for the stark white or deep blue waters of this high-latitude lake, a key area for caribou migration.

πŸ—ΊοΈ

Foxe Basin Plains

Gaze across the vast, low-lying tundra plains that transition into the shallow waters of the Foxe Basin.

Sit on the left for the best views of the vast Arctic interior. During late summer (August), you can see the intricate patterns of the tundra wetlands and braided rivers without snow cover. Use a polarizing filter if taking photos to cut the glare from the numerous meltwater ponds.

Top Activities in Arctic Bay
Route Information

Distance: 1,221 km (759 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min

Departure: YFB (63.756402, -68.555801)

Arrival: YAB (73.0058922479, -85.0325489044)

Route Type: Domestic

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