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YKS → CKH
Which side of the plane to sit from Yakutsk Airport (Yakutsk) to Chokurdakh Airport (Chokurdah)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most diverse geographic features, including the massive Lena and Aldan river systems shortly after takeoff and a spectacular aerial view of the winding Indigirka River during the descent into Chokurdakh.
Lena River Crossing
Immediately after departing Yakutsk, see the immense width of the Lena River, one of the longest rivers in the world.
Aldan River Confluence
Spot the majestic meeting point of the Aldan and Lena rivers, creating a massive network of islands and sandbars.
Indigirka River Basin
The plane follows the serpentine path of the Indigirka River during its final approach, offering stunning views of its many bends.
Thermokarst Lakes
Thousands of perfectly round permafrost lakes dot the landscape, looking like silver coins scattered across the tundra.
The right side provides the best view of the river systems which are the lifeblood of Yakutia. During the summer months, the midnight sun will be on this side for a significant portion of the flight. For the best photography of the thermokarst lakes, a morning flight provides high-contrast lighting that makes the water surfaces pop against the tundra.
Verkhoyansk Range
View the rugged, snow-dusted peaks of one of Russia's most remote mountain chains as the flight crosses the Arctic Circle.
Central Yakutian Taiga
Vast, unbroken stretches of Siberian larch forest that dominate the landscape between the mountain ranges.
Arctic Tundra Transition
Watch the forest thin out into the shrubby tundra of the Yana-Indigirka Lowland as you fly further north.
Atmospheric Halos
On cold winter days, look for ice crystal reflections and solar halos common in the extreme sub-zero temperatures of this route.
Choose the left side if you are interested in the geological formations of the Verkhoyansk mountains. In winter, this side is excellent for spotting the Aurora Borealis during night flights, as it faces the magnetic north. Ensure your window is clear, as frost buildup is common in these extreme temperatures.
Distance: 1,236 km (768 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 39 min
Departure: YKS (62.093299865722656, 129.77099609375)
Arrival: CKH (70.62310028076172, 147.90199279785156)
Route Type: Domestic
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