March 23, 2024 – The Federal Aviation Administration is warning travelers and pilots the total solar eclipse in April could snarl air traffic, especially at airports located in what is known as the path of totality. Hundreds of airports are either located in the path totality or are close enough in proximity to service aviators interested in the phenomenon. The FAA bulletin includes major airports such as Dallas-Fort Worth International, Indianapolis International and Cleveland International. Local skydiving couple, Marc and Cassi McGahee plan to skydive with friends during the eclipse in the Gladewater area. Dedicated and seasoned skydivers with thousands of jumps, the McGahees chose Gladewater as a safer alternative since East Texas Skydiving already have a dedicated drop zone for skydivers.
As eclipse darkness travels from Mexico to Maine, more than 30 million Americans are estimated to live in the path. The FAA warns pilots that special restrictions may also be issued three to five days ahead of the event. Neither the FAA nor the Transportation Security Administration have released specific guidance for passengers ahead of the eclipse, but as a general recommendation, airlines always suggest arriving at the airport at least two hours before departure.
