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ZFN → YVQ
Which side of the plane to sit from Tulita Airport (Tulita) to Norman Wells Airport (Norman Wells)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an immediate and dramatic view of Bear Rock and the Franklin Mountains, plus the unique infrastructure of Norman Wells upon arrival.
Bear Rock (Petsezui)
A massive, sacred limestone cliff located at the confluence of the Great Bear and Mackenzie Rivers, visible shortly after takeoff.
Great Bear River Confluence
Watch for the distinct line where the crystal-clear waters of the Great Bear River meet the silty brown Mackenzie.
Franklin Mountains
Dramatic ridgelines including the Discovery Range that run parallel to the flight path, offering close-up geologic textures.
Norman Wells Artificial Islands
On final approach, view the unique man-made islands in the middle of the river used for oil extraction since the 1920s.
The right side is essential for seeing Bear Rock, the region's most famous landmark. Since the flight is extremely short (under 25 minutes), keep your camera ready from the moment of takeoff. Morning light illuminates the Franklin Mountains perfectly.
Mackenzie River (Deh Cho)
Uninterrupted views of Canada's longest river system, featuring massive sediment-rich channels and shifting sandbars.
Mackenzie Mountains
The distant, jagged peaks of the backbone of the Northwest Territories provide a stunning backdrop to the west.
Boreal Wilderness
Expansive stretches of taiga and muskeg, showcasing the raw and untouched beauty of the northern subarctic landscape.
Sit on the left for expansive views of the river's width and the western horizon. In the late afternoon, this side experiences beautiful golden hour light over the Mackenzie Mountains, though glare can be intense.
Distance: 71 km (44 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 min
Departure: ZFN (64.909697, -125.572998)
Arrival: YVQ (65.28160095214844, -126.7979965209961)
Route Type: Domestic
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