After the Checkride: Take in the Solar Eclipse

On August 21, the United States will be treated to a total solar eclipse, and pilots are uniquely positioned to get the best views of this event—because we can fly to where there’s no cloud cover.

The “Great American Eclipse,” so called because it will only be visible in the United States, will make landfall in Oregon at about 10:18 a.m. Pacific time and move eastward throughout the day. The duration of the totality will range from one minute, seven seconds to two minutes, 40 seconds, depending on the location. The show wraps up at 2:43 p.m. Eastern time.

The best spots to view the eclipse are within the path of totality during a day with clear skies. The best probability for clear skies in which to view the eclipse is in Oregon and Idaho, followed by western Nebraska. Airports are expected to fill up fast, so call ahead to confirm ramp space and services will be available.