Delta Air Lines is offering a unique flight opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts and travelers to witness a total solar eclipse from the sky, providing an extraordinary experience.
Scheduled for April 8, 2024, when the next solar eclipse will cross North America, Delta’s special flight promises an unparalleled viewing experience.
Giving travelers an exceptional viewing opportunity
The special flight—Delta flight 1218, will depart from Austin, Texas, at 12:15 p.m. Central Time and journey to Detroit, Michigan, arriving at 4:20 p.m. Eastern Time.
Carefully coordinated timings aim to maximize passengers’ time within the path of totality, where the moon obscures the sun, creating an awe-inspiring phenomenon.
Witnessing an astronomical marvel from above
A total solar eclipse is when the moon aligns perfectly between the sun and Earth, obscuring the sun’s surface and casting a shadow on the planet.
During this rare event, the sky darkens like dusk, offering viewers a glimpse of the sun’s corona—the outer atmosphere visible around the moon’s silhouette.
Delta’s flight 1218, operated on an A220-300 aircraft equipped with oversized windows, ensures passengers enjoy optimal viewing quality during this celestial event.
Collaborative efforts for a unique experience
Eric Beck, Delta’s managing director of domestic network planning, expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts within the company to make this experience possible.
From selecting an aircraft with larger windows to thoroughly planning departure times, Delta aims to provide customers with an unforgettable celestial encounter.
“Thanks to teams across the company, the idea of viewing a total eclipse from the air will become a reality for our customers,” Beck stated in a press release.
Interested travelers are encouraged to book as soon as possible
Tickets for this exclusive flight are in high demand, with Main Cabin seats priced at $749, Comfort+ at $859, and First and Basic Economy already sold out.
Interested parties are advised to secure their seats quickly to ensure participation in this once-in-a-lifetime event.
The last chance to witness a total solar eclipse until 2044
The April 8 eclipse marks the final opportunity to witness a total solar eclipse from the continental U.S. until 2044.
The eclipse’s path will span North America, beginning over the South Pacific Ocean, crossing Mexico, the United States, and Canada, offering viewers an unforgettable celestial journey.
Additional viewing opportunities for eager travelers
For those unable to secure tickets for Delta flight 1218, Delta offers alternative routes with eclipse-viewing potential:
- Detroit, Michigan (DTW) to Westchester, New York (HPN)
- Los Angeles (LAX) to Dallas (DFW)
- Los Angeles (LAX) to San Antonio, Texas (SAT)
- Salt Lake City, Utah (SLC) to San Antonio (SAT)
- Salt Lake City (SLC) to Austin, Texas (AUS)
These flights present additional chances to witness this astronomical marvel from the comfort of a Delta aircraft.
Visitors’ compliance with travel requirements guarantees a celestial experience
Foreign travelers eager to witness the 2024 total solar eclipse must follow U.S. travel regulations, ensuring a seamless experience as the eclipse crosses North America.
An essential part of this process is the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval for eligible travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries.
ESTA is vital for VWP citizens, enabling smooth entry by allowing pre-screening before departure, ensuring compliance, and streamlining the process.
Interested travelers should complete the ESTA application well before their trip to focus on the celestial spectacle without entry concerns.