Brussels Airlines Charters Special Flight for 2026 Solar Eclipse: How to Book and What to Know

This will be Europe’s astronomical event of the year: an exceptionally deep partial solar eclipse, visible from the skies aboard an aircraft. Brussels Airlines, in partnership with the Urania public observatory and the universities of Antwerp and Brussels, is offering a specially designed flight to observe this rare phenomenon on August 12, 2026. An experience that combines astronomy, aviation, and adventure, to be booked without delay as seats are expected to fill up quickly.

The flight’s uniqueness lies in its altitude and trajectory. At nearly 11 kilometers above the clouds, passengers will enjoy a clear sky—an essential condition to fully experience the eclipse. The phenomenon will occur in the evening, with optimal visibility from western France, far from possible ground-level weather disruptions. A decisive advantage for astronomy enthusiasts eager to witness this moment under the best conditions.

The flight is scheduled to depart from Brussels Airport at around 7:20 PM, just minutes after sunset in Belgium, and will fly over the Nantes region during the eclipse’s deepest phase. The return is expected by 9:20 PM, after a two-hour flight. For astronomy lovers, this is a rare opportunity to combine travel and celestial observation in a secure and exclusive setting.

A Flight Designed for Observation, with Specific Amenities

To ensure a high-quality experience, Brussels Airlines has arranged special onboard features. Out of the 180 seats on the Airbus A320, only about 100 will be sold, with aisle seats deliberately left empty to enhance the view outside. Each passenger will receive certified eclipse glasses, essential for safely observing the sun directly.

The flight will be guided by experienced Urania experts who will explain the phenomenon, visibility conditions, and eclipse specifics. A preparatory evening is also planned, including a planetarium presentation, to ensure every participant is fully ready for this unique moment.

The package, priced at €299 per person, includes all services: the preparatory evening, round-trip flight, protective glasses, onboard guidance, and planetarium access. A modest investment for an unforgettable experience, especially considering the last total eclipse visible in Europe dates back to August 1999. Organizers anticipate high demand, both from Belgian enthusiasts and international travelers willing to travel for this celestial spectacle.

Why Is This Eclipse So Special?

The August 12, 2026, solar eclipse will appear in Belgium as an exceptionally deep partial eclipse, with roughly 89 to 91% of the sun’s disk obscured by the Moon at its peak. In Europe, only the path of totality will cross Iceland and northern Spain, but Belgium—despite being outside this zone—will witness an unusually pronounced partial eclipse. A unique chance to observe this phenomenon without traveling to distant regions.

Unlike total eclipses, which are only visible in a narrow band of territory, partial eclipses like this one offer far greater accessibility. For amateur astronomers, this is the ideal opportunity to share a memorable moment with a wider audience, under optimal conditions thanks to Brussels Airlines’ special flight.

How to Book and What Are the Conditions?

Registrations opened a few days ago, and organizers urge interested parties to act quickly to secure their seats. The flight is limited to about 100 participants, and demand is expected to be high, both from Belgium and abroad. An online form is available on the Urania and Brussels Airlines websites for reservations.

To participate, it is mandatory to meet age and physical fitness requirements, as the flight takes place in the evening and at high altitude. Passengers must also be accompanied by an experienced guide, ensuring optimal safety throughout the flight. Tickets are non-refundable but transferable under certain conditions in case of last-minute cancellation.

The return to Brussels is scheduled for 9:20 PM, allowing participants to head home the same evening without constraints. A meticulous organization for an experience set to be magical.

A Partnership Bridging Science and Aviation

This special flight is the result of a collaboration between Brussels Airlines, the Urania public observatory, and the universities of Antwerp and Brussels. An initiative that demonstrates how aviation and science can come together to offer travelers unique experiences. For Brussels Airlines, it’s also an opportunity to showcase its commitment to innovation and service quality by providing extraordinary offerings.

This operation aligns with a broader trend where airlines seek to diversify their offerings to attract a wider, more discerning clientele. Eclipse-chasing flights are not new, but they remain rare, especially in Europe where weather conditions often hinder observation. With this flight, Brussels Airlines positions itself as a key player in the field, delivering a premium yet accessible experience.

What to Do If You’re Interested?

If you’d like to book your seat for this exceptional flight, here’s what to do. Visit the Urania or Brussels Airlines website to access the reservation form. Be sure to have the necessary information ready: contact details, date of birth, and payment information. Payment is secure, and tickets are sent via email in electronic form.

For international travelers, it’s advisable to arrange accommodation in Brussels the night before the flight to ease airport access. Brussels Airport is well-connected by public transport, but a taxi or rental car may be useful for those traveling from afar. Also, check weather conditions in the days leading up to the flight, as dense cloud cover could compromise the observation.

Finally, don’t forget to bring warm clothing for the flight, as temperatures at 11 kilometers altitude are significantly lower than on the ground. A small tip that can make all the difference in fully enjoying the experience.

On August 12, 2026, don’t miss this exceptional rendezvous with the sky. A unique flight, a rare eclipse, and an unforgettable experience to be had in Belgium.

For more information and to book, visit the websites of Urania and Brussels Airlines.