A solar eclipse seemed like the perfect excuse for a cross-country flight to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, from San Diego with friends in our recently acquired Cirrus SR22T. My close friend Howard was just as excited for the trip as I was. Our less adventurous wives, not so much. My wife protested, “I don’t get it, why all the travel? It gets completely dark right here in our backyard every single night.” Five years and 2,000 hours later and she is still anxious about flying, but with prodding she agreed to go.
Flying During a Solar Eclipse
Key Takeaways:
- The cross-country flight to witness a total solar eclipse was fraught with unexpected challenges, including managing an anxious passenger experiencing altitude sickness and dealing with mechanical issues under pressure.
- Despite the difficulties encountered during the journey, the total solar eclipse itself was described as a profoundly moving and unforgettable "life experience."
- The author learned critical lessons about flying with non-pilot passengers, emphasizing the need for meticulous planning for their comfort, potential medical needs, and psychological preparedness for unforeseen events.
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