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YZF → YVQ
Which side of the plane to sit from Yellowknife Airport (Yellowknife) to Norman Wells Airport (Norman Wells)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the massive Mackenzie River system and the distant, snow-capped peaks of the Mackenzie Mountains during the approach into Norman Wells.
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Marian Lake
Visible shortly after departure, this expansive lake marks the transition away from the Great Slave Lake region.
Horn Plateau
A vast, raised wilderness area featuring dense boreal forests and sub-arctic tundra plateaus.
Mackenzie River (Deh Cho)
Canada's longest river comes into view mid-flight, appearing as a massive silver ribbon winding northward.
Mackenzie Mountains
On clear days, the jagged skyline of the Yukon-NWT border is visible on the western horizon.
The left side is prime for capturing the scale of the Mackenzie River as you approach Norman Wells. During winter flights, look for ice pressure ridges on the river. If flying in summer, the low sun angle during late evening flights creates dramatic shadows across the Horn Plateau.
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Great Slave Lake North Arm
Excellent views of the deep blue waters and rocky islands of the North Arm immediately after takeoff.
The Canadian Shield
An endless mosaic of 'puddle' lakes and ancient Precambrian rock typical of the sub-arctic landscape.
Franklin Mountains
Parallel ridges that run along the east bank of the Mackenzie River, visible during the descent into YVQ.
Great Bear Lake Distant View
On exceptionally clear days, the southern reaches of North America's largest freshwater lake can be spotted.
Choose the right side if you are a fan of the Canadian Shield's unique geography; the patterns of millions of small lakes are mesmerizing. This side is also excellent for spotting the aurora borealis if traveling during the long winter nights, as you will be facing the auroral oval to the north and east.
Book Hotels in Norman WellsDistance: 680 km (423 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 8 min
Departure: YZF (62.46279907226562, -114.44000244140624)
Arrival: YVQ (65.28160095214844, -126.7979965209961)
Route Type: Domestic
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