The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a cautionary advisory for air travelers ahead of April’s highly anticipated solar eclipse, citing expectations of increased traffic at airports along and near the eclipse’s path. Spanning from April 7 through April 10, the warning foresees potential delays and rerouting for flights operating in regions expected to witness the celestial event.
Hundreds of airports, stretching from Maine to Texas, fall under this advisory, including major hubs like Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, known for accommodating over 200,000 travelers daily. The announcement coincides with concerns from state officials regarding potential disruptions in cellular service due to the anticipated influx of visitors, with up to 3.7 million people anticipated to converge on regions within the eclipse’s trajectory.
The FAA’s advisory underscores the need for aircraft preparedness, cautioning pilots to expect potential airborne holding, reroutes, and Expect Departure Clearance Times (EDCTs) for all domestic Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) arrivals and departures. Additionally, Traffic Management Initiatives (TMIs) are deemed possible during this period.
Reflecting on past experiences, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association highlights the significant surge in air traffic during the 2017 solar eclipse, particularly in regions near the path of totality. Instances of record-breaking increases, such as the 200 percent surge observed in St. Joseph, Missouri, underscore the magnitude of the event’s impact on air travel.
Airports grappled with unprecedented volumes of flights, with some forced to implement ground stops to manage the surge effectively. Flight controllers recounted scenes of airspace inundated with aircraft, portraying the scale of the challenge faced during the eclipse.
As preparations intensify for the upcoming celestial phenomenon, airlines like Delta Air Lines have responded to the anticipated surge by offering additional flights near the path of totality. Despite the initial flight’s rapid sell-out, a second flight has been added to accommodate demand, aiming to provide passengers with a unique viewing experience.
Amidst the surge in air travel, states brace for an influx of tourists, prompting concerns over potential strain on local cellular networks. Telecom companies like T-Mobile and Verizon are mobilizing resources to bolster network capacity, deploying additional cell sites and portable towers in areas expecting high tourist footfall.
As the nation eagerly awaits the rare celestial spectacle, preparations continue to ensure a seamless travel experience and uninterrupted connectivity for both air travelers and local residents alike.
