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YVQ → ZFN
Which side of the plane to sit from Norman Wells Airport (Norman Wells) to Tulita Airport (Tulita)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a stunning, continuous view of the mighty Mackenzie River and the distant, rugged peaks of the Mackenzie Mountains, which define the western horizon of the Sahtu Region.
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Mackenzie River (Deh Cho)
Uninterrupted views of Canada's longest river system, featuring massive sandbars and shifting channels.
Mackenzie Mountains
Dramatic, jagged peaks of the subarctic cordillera visible in the distance to the southwest.
Norman Wells Oil Islands
Unique man-made drilling islands built directly into the river, visible shortly after takeoff.
Alluvial Fans
Intricate sediment patterns where mountain streams empty into the valley floor.
Sit on the right for the best overview of the river's immense scale. This side is particularly spectacular during evening flights when the sun sets over the Mackenzie Mountains, reflecting gold and orange hues off the water. It provides a better sense of the vast, roadless wilderness.
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Bear Rock (Kweteniiaa)
A massive, sacred limestone cliff and landmark that dominates the landscape as you approach Tulita.
Great Bear River Confluence
The striking visual point where the crystal-clear blue water of the Great Bear River meets the silty Mackenzie.
Franklin Mountains
The northern reaches of the Franklin range, showing ancient geological folds and ridges to the east.
Boreal Tundra Mosaic
A dense pattern of black spruce, muskeg, and permafrost ponds characteristic of the Taiga Shield.
The left side is superior during the final descent. Keep your eyes peeled for Bear Rock, a major cultural site for the Dene people. If flying in the morning, the sunlight illuminates the rock face beautifully. This is also the best side to see the distinct color line at the river junction.
Get eSIMs for Canada
Get eSIMs for CanadaDistance: 71 km (44 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 min
Departure: YVQ (65.28160095214844, -126.7979965209961)
Arrival: ZFN (64.909697, -125.572998)
Route Type: Domestic
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