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YXN → YRT
Which side of the plane to sit from Whale Cove Airport (Whale Cove) to Rankin Inlet Airport (Rankin Inlet)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers spectacular views of the rugged Hudson Bay coastline, intricate island formations, and the transition between land and sea that defines the Kivalliq Region.
Hudson Bay Shoreline
Enjoy a continuous view of the rocky coast where the dark waters of the bay meet the rugged edge of the Kivalliq mainland.
Seasonal Sea Ice
From late autumn through early summer, watch for massive ice floes and the stark white expanse of frozen sea water.
Corbett Inlet
As you approach Rankin Inlet, look for the complex network of inlets and small islands that create a stunning jagged coastline.
Marine Life Potential
During summer months, lucky passengers may spot pods of Beluga whales or seals near the shallower coastal waters.
The right side is superior for this coastal hop. Because the flight is exceptionally short and maintains a relatively low altitude, the detail of the coastline is highly visible. If traveling in winter, the 'blue hour' light provides incredible contrast against the snow and ice. Polar bears are occasionally spotted near the shoreline during the ice-free season, so bring binoculars if possible.
Arctic Tundra Patterns
Observe the unique polygonal ground patterns caused by permafrost and seasonal freeze-thaw cycles characteristic of the Canadian North.
Glacial Kettle Lakes
The landscape is dotted with thousands of small, crystal-clear lakes formed by retreating glaciers thousands of years ago.
Barrenlands Migration Paths
Keep an eye out for the vast, open plains where caribou herds are known to migrate across the mossy terrain.
Sit on the left if you are interested in the geological formations of the Canadian Shield. Since this is a very short flight, usually under 25 minutes, have your camera ready immediately after takeoff from Whale Cove. Morning flights provide a soft light that emphasizes the texture of the tundra.
Distance: 68 km (42 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 min
Departure: YXN (62.24000167849999, -92.5980987549)
Arrival: YRT (62.811401367200006, -92.1157989502)
Route Type: Domestic
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