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YZF → YHY
Which side of the plane to sit from Yellowknife Airport (Yellowknife) to Hay River / Merlyn Carter Airport (Hay River)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior view of the Yellowknife skyline and the main townsite of Hay River, offering a better perspective of the human settlements contrasting with the massive Great Slave Lake.
Search flights from YZF to YHY
Yellowknife Skyline
A great view of the 'Diamond Capital' and its colorful Old Town as the aircraft climbs southward.
Great Slave Lake
The deepest lake in North America; see the vast, deep blue waters or intricate ice patterns during winter months.
Akaitcho Bay
Pass over the scenic bay and the community of Dettah shortly after departure from Yellowknife.
Hay River Townsite
Get a clear view of the primary residential and commercial areas of Hay River during the final approach.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Yellowknife city center during departure. If flying during the winter or spring, look for the Dettah ice road spanning the frozen lake. Morning flights provide the best lighting for photography on this side as the sun illuminates the shoreline.
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Con Mine
Spot the historic gold mine headframes and industrial remains on the western outskirts of Yellowknife.
Boreal Wilderness
Vast stretches of taiga and boreal forest that define the rugged landscape of the Northwest Territories.
West Channel
Observe the industrial docks and barge activity along the Hay River's West Channel near Vale Island.
Mackenzie Highway
Look for the solitary road cutting through the wilderness, which serves as the lifeline to the south.
The right side is preferred for evening flights to enjoy sunsets over the vast Mackenzie Valley. Watch for the industrial hub and shipyards of the NTCL in Hay River, which are often visible just before landing. This side offers a more 'wilderness-heavy' perspective compared to the left.
Book Hotels in Hay RiverDistance: 194 km (121 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 19 min
Departure: YZF (62.46279907226562, -114.44000244140624)
Arrival: YHY (60.8396987915, -115.782997131)
Route Type: Domestic
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