A Total Solar Eclipse will cross North America on Monday April 8, 2024.  The path (https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/) will impact Boston ARTCC from approximately 2:07 pm EDST – 5:42 pm ADT (1807 – 2142 UTC)

This letter is to inform airmen of the possible impacts to air traffic and airports along the eclipse path.  The following public use and DoD airports within Boston ARTCC lie within 50 NM either side of the path of the eclipse:

Based on data gathered from the August 21^st, 2017 event, there is predicted to be a higher traffic volume than normal anticipated at these airports due to the eclipse.  Pilots should anticipate delays during peak traffic periods.  Parking may be limited – particularly at the smaller, uncontrolled airports.  VFR departures can expect delays for airborne pickup of IFR clearance within 50 NM either side of the path of the eclipse.

Practice approaches, touch-and-goes, flight following services and pilot training operations at airports in the path of the eclipse may be extremely limited and possibly prohibited during this time period,

Airmen should check NOTAMs carefully for special procedures/restrictions that may be in place at affected airports.  Specific NOTAM procedures may be revised, and arrivals to some airports possibly restricted. Please review NOTAMs frequently to verify you have the current information.

When filing IFR - it is to the pilot's advantage to file an applicable preferred route listed in the FAA Flight Information Publication CHART SUPPLEMENT. Following these routes will minimize route changes during the operational phase of your flight and will aid in the efficient, orderly, management of air traffic using federal airways. Preferred IFR routes are designed to serve the needs of airspace users and to provide for a systematic flow of air traffic in the major terminal and en route flight environments. Cooperation by all pilots in filing preferred routes will result in fewer traffic delays and will better provide for efficient departure, en route and arrival air traffic service. 

https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/flight_info/aeronav/digital_products/dafd/    

For further information concerning the Eclipse see the NASA Science website at: https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/eclipse-2023/where-when/.                    

For further information concerning the Eclipse see the NASA Science website at: https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/eclipse-2023/where-when/.