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YMO destination photo
YKQ destination photo

YMOYKQ

Which side of the plane to sit from Moosonee Airport (Moosonee) to Waskaganish Airport (Waskaganish)?

Our Recommendation
7.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the vast James Bay coastline and the dramatic interface between the subarctic sea and the dense boreal landscape.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

James Bay Horizon

Unobstructed views of the southern reaches of the James Bay waters, often filled with shifting ice floes in winter.

🦢

Hannah Bay Sanctuary

A glimpse of the migratory bird sanctuary, featuring expansive tidal flats and salt marshes critical for wildlife.

🛶

Harricana River Estuary

The scenic point where the Harricana River merges with the bay, creating complex silt patterns in the water.

❄️

Arctic Shoreline

The rugged, sparsely populated coastline of the Eeyou Istchee territory, showing the transition to subarctic tundra.

Choose the left side for the best light during afternoon flights, as the sun will illuminate the coastline. In late autumn or early spring, watch for the stark contrast between the frozen bay and the dark forest. Keep an eye out for white dots along the coast—these are often large flocks of snow geese during migration seasons.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🌲

Moose River Delta

A spectacular view immediately after takeoff of the wide Moose River branching around several large islands.

🌀

Patterned Fens

Mesmerizing 'ribbed fens' and peatlands that create naturally occurring geometric patterns in the muskeg.

🌊

Nottaway River

One of the longest rivers in Quebec, visible as a massive dark vein cutting through the green boreal forest.

🎣

Broadback River

The final major river system before descent into Waskaganish, known for its turbulent waters and rapids.

The right side is best for those interested in the intricate hydrology of the Lowlands. Look for the 'string bogs'—linear patterns in the wetlands—which are most visible during midday when the sun is high. If flying in autumn, the golden yellow of the tamarack trees provides a stunning contrast against the dark green spruces.

Top Activities in Waskaganish
Route Information

Distance: 130 km (81 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 13 min

Departure: YMO (51.29109954833984, -80.60780334472656)

Arrival: YKQ (51.47330093383789, -78.75830078125)

Route Type: Domestic

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