Airborne Eclipse Viewing: A New Trend?
As the solar eclipse on August 12, 2026, approaches, airlines are embracing innovative ways to view this celestial event—from the air. In Belgium, Brussels Airlines is leading the charge. Partnering with the Urania Public Observatory, the University of Antwerp, and the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), they’re offering exclusive flights designed to enhance the eclipse experience. In contrast, airlines in Spain, like Lufthansa, are merely teasing potential customers without having concrete plans for similar flights.
Why Choose an Aerial View?
Viewing a solar eclipse from the sky has its perks. Commercial flights typically soar above the clouds, generally cruising between 9,000 and 13,000 meters. This altitude provides unobstructed views of the eclipse, free from the hindrances posed by cloud cover. As the August 12 eclipse reaches totality around sunset, clear skies will be paramount to fully appreciate the moment.
In Belgium, observers may witness up to 91% of the Sun obscured, which could be best experienced from an aircraft flying in the skies above.
Flight Details and Experience
The special flight will take off from Brussels, bound for France, at 7:20 p.m. It will return by 9:20 p.m., with the maximum solar occultation expected at 8:21 p.m. in the midst of the journey. To ensure optimal viewing for the 100 passengers aboard, aisle seats will not be sold, providing everyone with an unobstructed view.
An expert from the Urania observatory will accompany the flight, offering commentary throughout the eclipse. To ensure safety, all passengers will receive approved eclipse glasses. This unique experience comes at a reasonable price of 299 euros.
A Proven Concept
This isn’t the first time airlines have offered flights for eclipse viewing. During the solar eclipse of 2024, various U.S. airlines provided similar options to enthusiasts. Additionally, seasoned eclipse chasers often settle for small aircraft to optimize their viewing experiences. For instance, Neil Schneider, who witnessed the 2017 eclipse, noted that viewing from above offers a radically different perspective, highlighting features such as the solar corona and Baily’s beads much more clearly than from the ground.
Eclipse Events and Activities in Spain
While Belgium paves the way for airborne viewing, Spain is busy organizing festivities around the August eclipse. However, up until now, there are no confirmed flights planned. The urgency is palpable as experts indicate this will be one of the last opportunities until September 2090. Spain will also host another solar eclipse within the same year; thus, airlines may soon explore the potential for organized travel experiences to capture this remarkable phenomenon.
As the date approaches, the allure of viewing the solar eclipse from the air is undeniable—promising not just a scientific experience but a memorable adventure as well.