About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Whitehorse International (YXY) to Dawson (YDA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Whitehorse to Dawson. The northbound climb-out on the left provides the most dramatic scenery with the Yukon River valley and distant St. Elias Mountains. While the landing approach on the right shows the river and Dawson, the takeoff views are more expansive and visually striking.
What can I see during takeoff from Whitehorse International in Whitehorse?
During takeoff from Whitehorse International (YXY), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the Yukon River valley and the St. Elias Mountains to the northwest as you climb out northbound. Right side faces the lower terrain and scattered lakes south of Whitehorse. Notable sights include: Yukon River (flowing northwest below), St. Elias Mountains (distant northwestern horizon), Whitehorse city and Watson Lake region (receding southward), boreal forest and muskeg terrain.
What can I see when landing at Dawson in Dawson?
When landing at Dawson (YDA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Yukon River and the Dawson area as you descend from the south. The river makes a distinctive bend near Dawson, and the surrounding terrain is more visible on the right during final approach. Notable sights include: Yukon River (prominent bend near Dawson), Dawson townsite (small cluster on river flats), Midnight Dome (low hill east of Dawson), boreal forest and tundra transition.
How long is the flight from Whitehorse to Dawson?
The flight from Whitehorse International (YXY) to Dawson (YDA) takes Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
What does the Whitehorse to Dawson flight path pass over?
The flight path follows the Yukon River valley northward. Notable features include the river's meandering course through boreal forest, scattered lakes and wetlands, low forested ridges, and the gradual transition from denser forest near Whitehorse to more open tundra-forest mosaic approaching Dawson. The terrain is relatively low-lying with no major mountain ranges directly along the flight path, though the St. Elias Mountains remain visible to the west at distance.