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YKS destination photo
PYJ destination photo

YKSPYJ

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

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a superior view of the Lena River shortly after takeoff and offers the best chance to see the massive Udachnaya open-pit diamond mine during the approach to Polyarny.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌊

Lena River Delta

Breathtaking views of one of the world's longest rivers as it snakes through the Siberian landscape near Yakutsk.

🌲

Central Siberian Plateau

A vast expanse of untouched larch taiga forest, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Russian wilderness.

🛶

Vilyuy River Curves

Intricate meanders and oxbow lakes of the Vilyuy River system as the flight traverses the plateau.

💎

Udachnaya Diamond Pipe

A colossal open-pit mine near the destination, appearing as a massive, spiraling crater in the earth.

For the most dramatic experience, book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the deep blues of the Lena and the stark contrasts of the diamond mines. Be aware that in winter, window frost can develop quickly due to extreme temperatures; choosing a seat away from the wing can help with visibility.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🏔️

Verkhoyansk Range

Distant, jagged peaks of the Verkhoyansk mountains visible on the northern horizon during clear weather.

💧

Vilyuy Reservoir

The largest artificial lake in Yakutia, reflecting the sky and surrounding forests in the summer months.

🧊

Thermokarst Lakes

Thousands of small, circular lakes formed by permafrost melting, creating a unique polka-dot pattern on the tundra.

❄️

Arctic Taiga

Transition zone where the forest begins to thin out, revealing the harsh beauty of the high-latitude landscape.

The right side is ideal for spotting the distant mountain ranges to the north. If flying in the summer, this side enjoys the soft light of the 'midnight sun' on late-night or early-morning flights. Keep your eyes peeled for the vast network of thermokarst lakes which are unique to this permafrost region.

Top Activities in Yakutia
Route Information

Distance: 977 km (607 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min

Departure: YKS (62.093299865722656, 129.77099609375)

Arrival: PYJ (66.4003982544, 112.029998779)

Route Type: Domestic

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