We are thrilled to have you join us for our upcoming solar eclipse flight. As we prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime event, we want to ensure you have all the necessary information to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Please read the following details carefully:

Arrival Time: Please plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure time to allow ample time for check-in, security procedures, and boarding. Timing will be of utmost importance, and we expect significant air traffic volume on this day. We may send flights earlier to remain on time. We also recommend using the restroom before your flight as the lavatory onboard the plane is small.

Boarding: Boarding will open 45 minutes before your departure time and close 15 minutes before takeoff. You will be assigned a color to match your assigned plane.

Eclipse Viewing: Our pilots will make every effort to ensure both sides of the aircraft are given equal viewing time via a series of north/south turns.

While we are dedicated to providing you with the best possible experience within our stringent safety standards, it's important to note that we may be subject to Air Traffic Control (“ATC”) rerouting or sudden FAA airspace restrictions without prior notice due to the level of anticipated air traffic for the event.

These issues, along with the possibility of cloud cover at the altitudes granted to us by ATC, are impossible to predict, meaning we cannot 100% guarantee a perfect viewing of the eclipse along the line of totality.

But we assure you that after numerous pre-mission discussions between BLADE’s Operations and Safety Teams and our aircraft operators and pilots, the entire team is briefed to maximize the opportunity for full visibility of the eclipse within our safety framework and at the same time, be prepared with route and altitude contingency options in the event ATC prohibits our preferred routing.

If you are uncomfortable with the uncertainties we have outlined, you have the option to cancel by 5:00pm TOMORROW, April 4, to receive a full refund. We have an extensive waitlist for these flights, so please let us know as soon as possible.

In-Flight Experience: The total flight time will be approximately 3 hours. Drinks and light snacks will be provided during the flight, along with AAS-approved and CE-certified solar eclipse glasses so you can safely enjoy direct views of the eclipse.

We expect to enter the path of the totality 15 minutes before the eclipse commences.

The pilots will maneuver the plane through a series of S turns, ensuring that both sides of the plane get equal viewing time of the eclipse.

Bathrooms are available on the plane, but are limited in size and we suggest using the restroom prior to departure.

Photography Tips: We encourage you to capture memories of this unique experience. Below are a few tips to help get the perfect shot:

Use a solar filter. Your camera's sensor is analogous to your eye. It can be damaged by prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. We suggest using a solar filter if you plan to photograph the eclipse with a SLR, rangefinder, or even your phone. You can purchase ND (neutral density) solar filters to fit your specific lens at any camera store (we recommend B&H if you’re in Manhattan). Alternatively, hold your BLADE provided solar glasses over your camera lens for a more hands-on, less techy approach.

If you plan to use professional equipment:
Choose a wide-angle lens to capture a larger scene or a long lens (the longer, the better) to capture the details of the eclipse. Cycle through your aperture and shutter speeds—fast shutter speeds before and after the eclipse and slow shutter speeds as the moon approaches its total eclipse.

For iPhone or Android users:
Turn off your flash, and don't count on your phone's automatic focus and exposure during the eclipse. On the iPhone camera apps, tap the sun or moon and drag the exposure slider down until details become visible. Android camera apps have a similar sliding exposure feature that can be accessed by pressing the display.

We are excited to share this extraordinary celestial event with you and look forward to providing you with a memorable experience. If you have any questions or require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our Flier Relations team. Email: fr@blade.com, phone: 844-359-2523.

Our Best,
The BLADE Team