Monday’s solar eclipse has brought about some unexpected disruptions at smaller airports across the country, with flights being halted ahead of the total eclipse. While such disruptions are more commonly caused by weather or heavy traffic in major cities, the high demand for prime eclipse viewing spots caused smaller airports to face unprecedented challenges.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration, airports from Burlington, Vermont, to southern Illinois experienced a surge in arriving flights, leading to temporary closures of runways to accommodate the influx of aircraft. This caused some airports to reach maximum capacity for both small propeller aircraft and larger jets, creating parking jams on the ground.
The solar eclipse, which offered the best views in the U.S. from Texas to Maine, led to smaller airports receiving a record number of reservations for eclipse flights. For instance, Southern Illinois Airport in Murphysboro had to close its runway to park planes due to the overwhelming demand. The airport reported having the most aircraft it has ever seen, showcasing the popularity of viewing the eclipse from the skies.
Overwhelming Traffic at Burlington International Airport
Burlington International Airport in Vermont also experienced a surge in traffic, with a predicted arrival of between 100 to 130 general aviation planes on the day of the eclipse. The airport was also anticipating scheduled commercial passenger jet traffic, making it one of the busiest days in its history. The deputy director of aviation operations mentioned that managing the traffic during departure would be a hectic task.
The Federal Aviation Administration had highlighted the eclipse as a major event during its morning planning call at its command center in Warrenton, Virginia. The agency had previously warned pilots about potential disruptions and heavy traffic in airports along the eclipse’s path. FAA traffic adjustments aimed to give airports time to manage the influx of flights effectively and prevent parking jams.
Airlines like Delta and United seized the opportunity to offer special eclipse flights, allowing passengers to view the phenomenon from the skies. Not only did these flights provide a unique experience, but they also contributed to the surge in bookings to cities along the eclipse’s path. United Airlines reported a significant increase in bookings to cities like San Antonio, Cleveland, and Little Rock during the eclipse period.
The solar eclipse is expected to bring a significant economic boost to hotels, house rentals, and other businesses in areas where tourists flocked to witness the event. With a surge in tourism, local establishments are anticipated to benefit from the influx of visitors during the eclipse period.
The solar eclipse not only captivated skywatchers across the country but also had a significant impact on smaller airports and airlines, showcasing the unique challenges and opportunities presented by celestial events.
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