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Delta Airlines Launches Additional Flight for April 8 Solar Eclipse

Nicole Potter05 mins

Catch the Total Solar Eclipse with iBestTravel

Travelers looking for a unique viewing experience for the upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, have exciting options. Airlines such as Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines have announced special flights designed to provide the best views of this rare celestial event. This total solar eclipse will not be visible again from the contiguous U.S. until 2044, making it an exceptional opportunity for travelers.

Delta’s Second Path-of-Totality Flight

Initially, Delta Air Lines launched a route from Austin to Detroit, which sold out within 24 hours due to high demand. In response, the airline has added a second flight, enabling more travelers to experience this stunning event. Delta’s lead meteorologist, Warren Weston, highlighted that this eclipse will last more than twice as long as the one in 2017 and that the path is nearly twice as wide.

Scheduled Flights by Delta

In addition to its path-of-totality route, Delta flights will also provide excellent opportunities to view the eclipse. Confirmed options include:

  • DL 5699: DTW-HPN, 2:59 PM EST departure
  • DL 924: LAX-DFW, 8:40 AM PST departure
  • DL 2869: LAX-SAT, 9:00 AM PST departure
  • DL 1001: SLC-SAT, 10:08 AM MST departure
  • DL 1683: SLC-AUS, 9:55 AM MST departure

Southwest’s Special Flights

Southwest Airlines has also joined in on the excitement by announcing several flights within the total eclipse’s path. This route will cross popular locations in Arkansas, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Texas. Some notable flights include:

  • Southwest Flight #1252: Departs Dallas (Love Field) at 12:45 PM CDT for Pittsburgh
  • Southwest Flight #1721: Departs Austin at 12:50 PM CDT for Indianapolis
  • Southwest Flight #1910: Departs St. Louis at 1:20 PM CDT for Houston (Hobby)

Additional Southwest Flights

Several other Southwest flights are also expected to cross the path of totality:

  • Southwest Flight #955: Departs Dallas (Love Field) at 12:50 PM CDT for Chicago (Midway)
  • Southwest Flight #506: Departs Milwaukee at 1:05 PM CDT for Dallas (Love Field)
  • Southwest Flight #1734: Departs Houston (Hobby) at 1:35 PM CDT for Indianapolis
  • Southwest Flight #1682: Departs Chicago (Midway) at 1:30 PM CDT for Austin
  • Southwest Flight #3108: Departs Nashville at 1:40 PM CDT for Dallas (Love Field)

Understanding the Eclipse

The total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes directly between the Earth and the sun. This extraordinary phenomenon will initially pass over North and Central America, creating a spectacular path of totality across 13 states in the U.S. Therefore, this presents a phenomenal opportunity for enthusiastic eclipse chasers.

How to View the Eclipse Safely

For those unable to secure a flight to witness the eclipse, there are numerous ground viewing options. NASA provides comprehensive information regarding the event on its official site, including:

  • Specific timings for the eclipse
  • Safe methods of viewing
  • Resources for purchasing protective eyewear

The Future of Air Travel

Flight options for the eclipse come at a time of both challenges and optimism in the airline industry. With rising fuel costs and various labor challenges, the excitement surrounding the eclipse offers positive momentum. Consequently, travelers are urged to keep an eye on their chosen airlines for any updated information regarding flights and possible promotions.


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