A Delta Air Lines flight from Dallas to Detroit offered 200 passengers a unique opportunity to witness the once-in-decades total solar eclipse from 30,000 feet above the ground. While millions of people on the ground prepared with protective glasses and prayers for clear skies, those on board the special flight were promised an unobstructed view of the eclipse from above the clouds.
As the flight progressed along the route of the solar eclipse, passengers gathered near the windows in anticipation. The cabin lights were dimmed before entering a few minutes of totality, and passengers received eclipse-themed swag bags containing special glasses and snacks.
However, despite the efforts of the pilots and the anticipation of the passengers, some struggled to catch a clear glimpse of the total eclipse as they had hoped. Nevertheless, many passengers, like 40-year-old Kyle Carter, found joy in witnessing the darkness coming towards them as the shadow of the eclipse approached.
Scot Kees, an attorney on the flight with his daughter Gabrielle, described their experience as getting "a sliver" of the eclipse but still enjoying the communal atmosphere on the flight.
Captain Alex Howell, the flight captain, noted the sky turning into a "dark version of dusk" but refrained from looking directly at the sun during the flight.
Despite some passengers expressing disappointment, the flight provided a memorable experience for all on board, with some even getting engaged during the journey. The planning for such special flights started months in advance, and although not every passenger got the view they had hoped for, the event was still one to remember.
