The takeoff from Petersburg offers more immediate and dramatic scenery—the Stikine River delta and Coast Mountains are striking within minutes of departure. While the landing approach to Ketchikan is scenic, the right-side advantage during climb-out and the extended views of the Inside Passage terrain make right seats the better overall choice for this short route.
Flown PSG to KTN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Petersburg to Ketchikan is 111 miles (178 km), a flight of about 45 minutes.
Clarence Strait, numerous forested islands of the Inside Passage, tidal channels, coastal peaks of the Tongass National Forest, Frederick Sound, and scattered small communities along the water
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PSG
RIGHTPetersburg is located on Mitkof Island in the northern Inside Passage. Right-side seats face west and southwest toward the Stikine River delta and the coastal mountains of mainland Alaska, offering immediate views of the dramatic terrain. Left seats face east over water with limited scenic interest during climb-out.
Landing at KTN
LEFTApproach to Ketchikan from the north typically descends over Clarence Strait and Revillagigedo Island. Left-side seats face west and southwest toward the heavily forested slopes of Revillagigedo Island and the dramatic peaks surrounding Ketchikan, providing excellent views of the approach corridor and coastal mountains.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Petersburg James A Johnson Airport (PSG) to Ketchikan International (KTN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Petersburg to Ketchikan. The takeoff from Petersburg offers more immediate and dramatic scenery—the Stikine River delta and Coast Mountains are striking within minutes of departure. While the landing approach to Ketchikan is scenic, the right-side advantage during climb-out and the extended views of the Inside Passage terrain make right seats the better overall choice for this short route.
What can I see during takeoff from Petersburg James A Johnson Airport in Petersburg?
During takeoff from Petersburg James A Johnson Airport (PSG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Petersburg is located on Mitkof Island in the northern Inside Passage. Right-side seats face west and southwest toward the Stikine River delta and the coastal mountains of mainland Alaska, offering immediate views of the dramatic terrain. Left seats face east over water with limited scenic interest during climb-out. Notable sights include: Stikine River delta, Coast Mountains, Mitkof Island shoreline, Frederick Sound.
What can I see when landing at Ketchikan International in Ketchikan?
When landing at Ketchikan International (KTN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Approach to Ketchikan from the north typically descends over Clarence Strait and Revillagigedo Island. Left-side seats face west and southwest toward the heavily forested slopes of Revillagigedo Island and the dramatic peaks surrounding Ketchikan, providing excellent views of the approach corridor and coastal mountains. Notable sights include: Revillagigedo Island, Tongass National Forest peaks, Clarence Strait, Ketchikan waterfront.
How long is the flight from Petersburg to Ketchikan?
The flight from Petersburg James A Johnson Airport (PSG) to Ketchikan International (KTN) takes about 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 111 miles (178 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Petersburg to Ketchikan flight path pass over?
Clarence Strait, numerous forested islands of the Inside Passage, tidal channels, coastal peaks of the Tongass National Forest, Frederick Sound, and scattered small communities along the water