Amazing Images Of Eclipse On Alaska, Delta, Southwest & United Airlines Flights

Thousands of travelers took the plunge and booked flights to witness the path of totality, with the solar eclipse on April 8. Airports from Texas to the North East saw a surge in interest. Airlines especially offer ‘path of totality flights.’ Today, millions of Americans plunged into complete darkness as the moon passed directly in front of the sun, blocking daylight for a few minutes in the middle of the afternoon.

Many people on the ground and up in the air took to social media to share their experiences, and some of the most popular airlines across the United States have joined the pack. This article highlights Simple Flying’s top airline shares so far.

This was the last expected solar eclipse in North America until 2044. While you may wonder what the benefit of taking flight during the eclipse is, moving in its direction (if your flight was headed in that direction) would give you a longer time to experience the phenomenon. You are also guaranteed an uninterrupted view in the window seat.

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A busy day (night) above the skies of America

With a surge of traffic along the path of totality, the Federal Aviation Administration issued an advisory notice warning of potential delays at airports and in the air. However, amid all the excitement surrounding the eclipse and the possibility of viewing it from the air, it was prudent to remember to wear protective eyewear.

Unfortunately, those pilots in command during the eclipse could not log their ‘night’ hours during the darkness. The FAA publicly shared that crew must wait until ‘official’ night before logging any time. This is usually one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise.

Airlines have seen their booking demand surge, with many opting for a window seat on this particular day. Star Alliance member United Airlines noted a peak in demand for flights from San Antonio and Cleveland, while customers onboard flights in the eclipse path received special eyewear.

‘Solarbration’ with Southwest

Those lucky enough to be onboard WN1252 (Dallas to Pittsburg), WN1721 (Austin to Indianapolis), or WN1910 (St. Louis to Houston) were treated to a ‘Solarbration‘ onboard the world’s largest low-cost carrier. Specially-themed glasses, napkins, and ‘cosmic’ cocktails were on offer.

Denver-based Frontier even got involved, using the eclipse to launch their latest sale, with ‘totality’ low fares, starting from just $15 across their network.

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The FAA Has Issued An Advisory Ahead Of The Total Solar Eclipse On April 8

Many people are expected to travel to areas that fall on the eclipse path.