by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 9:55 AM ET, Tue February 20, 2024
Delta Air Lines is offering one unique way to view the historic 2024 solar eclipse: by plane.
On April 8, 2024, travelers taking the special Delta flight 1218 from Austin to Detroit will enjoy viewing the eclipse’s peak during its travel times. The flight will operate on an A220-300 plane, which offers larger windows, and will be in the air from 12:15 p.m. CT to 4:20 p.m. ET.
“This flight is the result of significant collaboration and exemplifies the close teamwork Delta is known for — from selecting an aircraft with larger windows to determining the exact departure time from Austin and the experiences at the gate and in the air,” said Eric Beck, Managing Director of Domestic Network Planning.
“Thanks to teams across the company, the idea of viewing a total eclipse from the air will become a reality for our customers," Beck continued.
Even if you can’t book this exact flight, travelers should bring their solar eclipse viewing glasses for these specific flights, all flying on April 8: DL 5699; DL 924; DL 2869; DL 1001; DL 1683.
“The April 8 eclipse is the last total eclipse we’ll see over North America until 2044,” said Warren Weston, Delta Air Lines Lead Meteorologist. “This eclipse will last more than twice as long as the one that occurred in 2017, and the path is nearly twice as wide.”
A report made in December predicted that one to four million people are expected to travel specifically to see the 2024 solar eclipse. Cruise companies, tour operators and now airlines are joining in on the cosmic fun.
Southwest Airlines released a list of flights offering viewing opportunities back in October, 2023.
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