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YHI → YSY
Which side of the plane to sit from Ulukhaktok Holman Airport (Holman Island) to Sachs Harbour (David Nasogaluak Jr. Saaryuaq) Airport (Sachs Harbour)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides an exceptional view of the southern coastline of Banks Island, including the legendary Nelson Head sea cliffs and the stark, beautiful terrain of the Diamond Jenness Peninsula.
Nelson Head Cliffs
Massive 400-meter tall Precambrian sea cliffs that mark the dramatic southern entrance to Banks Island.
Banks Island Tundra
Rolling, treeless arctic landscape that is home to the world's largest population of muskoxen.
Diamond Jenness Peninsula
The rugged western coastal transition of Victoria Island visible shortly after departing Ulukhaktok.
Sachs Harbour Approach
Aerial view of Canada's westernmost Arctic community, positioned uniquely on the edge of the Beaufort Sea.
Sit on the right for the iconic approach to Banks Island. The cliffs of Nelson Head are best viewed in the low-angled sun of late evening or early morning, which highlights the distinct geological layers and textures of the rock face. Use a fast shutter speed to capture the sharp contrasts between the dark cliffs and the white sea ice below.
Amundsen Gulf Ice
Intricate patterns of sea ice, pressure ridges, and fractured leads across the gulf during the winter and spring.
Marine Leads
Deep blue water channels between ice floes that often host migrating beluga whales or ringed seals.
Beaufort Sea Horizon
Expansive, unobstructed views of the Arctic horizon where the sky meets the icy expanse of the Beaufort Sea.
While less varied than the right, the left side is excellent for observing the vastness of the Arctic ocean. Keep binoculars handy to spot polar bears on the ice floes during early spring flights.
Distance: 297 km (185 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 30 min
Departure: YHI (70.76280212402344, -117.80599975585938)
Arrival: YSY (71.9938964844, -125.242996216)
Route Type: Domestic
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