Canadian airlines are assuring travellers that their flights will not be affected by the total solar eclipse occurring on Monday, with Air Canada stating that there will be no operational impacts during the event. However, the airline did issue a reminder to staff not to look directly at the eclipse to protect their eyes. WestJet has also taken safety precautions, and passengers looking to view the eclipse out the window should bring their own protective gear. Air Transat will direct passengers to keep their window shades closed during the eclipse to avoid eye damage.
Transport Canada has issued an advisory reminding those in the aviation industry that the eclipse will result in rapid darkness and twilight conditions, which may affect pilots. The government agency states that pilots who are not authorized to fly in restricted visibility conditions may face restrictions during the eclipse, although this is expected to only impact a minority of pilots. Mason Fraser, a teacher at Seneca Polytechnic’s School of Aviation, explains that commercial pilots are trained to fly at night and flying during the eclipse may be comparable to a night takeoff or landing. Private pilots, however, may not have the same training for night operations and need to take precautions to protect their eyes during the eclipse.
As the total solar eclipse is set to pass over parts of Eastern Canada, Canadian airlines are taking steps to ensure the safety of both passengers and crew members. Air Canada, WestJet, and Air Transat have all implemented measures to protect individuals from potential eye damage caused by viewing the eclipse. While flights are expected to continue as scheduled, pilots are advised to take normal precautions, such as using sun shades, to prevent inadvertent eye damage. The eclipse will result in a brief period of darkness and twilight conditions that may impact visibility for pilots in the air.
The total solar eclipse is a rare astronomical event that has captured the attention of people across the globe. In Canada, airlines are preparing for the eclipse by issuing safety reminders and precautions to their staff and passengers. Transport Canada has also issued an advisory about the potential impact of the eclipse on pilots and flight operations. While the majority of commercial pilots are trained to handle night flights, private pilots may need to take extra precautions to protect their eyes during the eclipse.
Experts advise individuals to safeguard their eyes during the solar eclipse by using protective gear if they plan to view the event from an aircraft window. The sudden darkness and twilight conditions resulting from the eclipse may present challenges for pilots, particularly those who are not accustomed to flying in low visibility situations. Airlines are working to ensure that the eclipse does not disrupt flight schedules and that appropriate safety measures are in place to protect passengers and crew members. As Canadians prepare to witness this rare celestial event, it is important to take steps to safeguard vision and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
