The takeoff views of Yakutat Bay, Hubbard Glacier, and the Saint Elias Mountains are more dramatic and distinctive than the landing approach. Right side captures the most visually striking coastal glacial scenery on this route.
Flown YAK to CDV? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Yakutat to Cordova is 212 miles (341 km), a flight of about 45 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Gulf of Alaska coastline, passing over the Malaspina Glacier region and the Bagley Icefield area. You'll see the transition from the heavily glaciated Saint Elias range to the Chugach Mountains. The route follows the southeastern Alaska coast with continuous views of tidewater glaciers, braided glacial rivers, and coastal mountains throughout the short flight.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from YAK
RIGHTRight side offers immediate views of Yakutat Bay and the tidewater glaciers of the Saint Elias Mountains as you climb out. The left side faces inland terrain with less dramatic relief.
Landing at CDV
LEFTLeft side provides the best approach views of Copper River Delta and the Chugach Mountains as you descend toward Cordova. You'll see the braided river channels and coastal wetlands that define the approach corridor.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Yakutat (YAK) to Merle K Mudhole Smith (CDV)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Yakutat to Cordova. The takeoff views of Yakutat Bay, Hubbard Glacier, and the Saint Elias Mountains are more dramatic and distinctive than the landing approach. Right side captures the most visually striking coastal glacial scenery on this route.
What can I see during takeoff from Yakutat in Yakutat?
During takeoff from Yakutat (YAK), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers immediate views of Yakutat Bay and the tidewater glaciers of the Saint Elias Mountains as you climb out. The left side faces inland terrain with less dramatic relief. Notable sights include: Yakutat Bay, Hubbard Glacier, Saint Elias Mountains, Disenchantment Bay.
What can I see when landing at Merle K Mudhole Smith in Cordova?
When landing at Merle K Mudhole Smith (CDV), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side provides the best approach views of Copper River Delta and the Chugach Mountains as you descend toward Cordova. You'll see the braided river channels and coastal wetlands that define the approach corridor. Notable sights include: Copper River Delta, Chugach Mountains, Eyak Lake, Cordova waterfront.
How long is the flight from Yakutat to Cordova?
The flight from Yakutat (YAK) to Merle K Mudhole Smith (CDV) takes about 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 212 miles (341 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Yakutat to Cordova flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Gulf of Alaska coastline, passing over the Malaspina Glacier region and the Bagley Icefield area. You'll see the transition from the heavily glaciated Saint Elias range to the Chugach Mountains. The route follows the southeastern Alaska coast with continuous views of tidewater glaciers, braided glacial rivers, and coastal mountains throughout the short flight.