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YZF → YCO
Which side of the plane to sit from Yellowknife Airport (Yellowknife) to Kugluktuk Airport (Coppermine)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side offers a superior vantage point for witnessing the transition from the boreal forest to the Arctic tundra, including potential views of the eastern reaches of Great Bear Lake.
Great Slave Lake North Arm
Exiting Yellowknife, you get a sprawling view of the deep blue North Arm and its countless rocky islands.
Great Bear Lake Horizon
On clear days, the massive frozen or crystal-clear expanse of Great Bear Lake is visible to the west.
Tlicho Wilderness
Fly over the heart of the Tlicho region, characterized by ancient Canadian Shield rock and thousands of unnamed lakes.
The Tree Line
Watch the dramatic ecological shift as the taiga forest thins out into the open, mossy Barrenlands.
Sit on the left for better lighting during mid-day flights as the sun remains to the south. Keep your eyes peeled for the 'pock-marked' landscape of the Canadian Shield, which looks particularly stunning during the autumn when the tundra turns vibrant red and orange.
Yellowknife Cityscape
Excellent views of the capital city, Frame Lake, and the historic Old Town immediately after takeoff.
Historic Mine Sites
Spot the remnants of the Giant and Con gold mines that define the region's industrial history.
Coppermine River Valley
As you descend into YCO, the winding path of the historic Coppermine River comes into sharp focus.
Coronation Gulf
The first glimpse of the Arctic Ocean's pack ice or sapphire waters depending on the season.
The right side is ideal for the final approach into Kugluktuk, providing the best views of the settlement and the river mouth. If flying in late winter, look for the 'ice roads' carved across the frozen lakes near Yellowknife.
Distance: 596 km (370 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr
Departure: YZF (62.46279907226562, -114.44000244140624)
Arrival: YCO (67.816704, -115.143997)
Route Type: Domestic
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