🌌 1. Yes, It’s Possible!
If you’re flying at night over high latitudes — especially between September and March — there’s a good chance you could see the aurora from your airplane window.
📍 2. The Best Routes
Flights between northern cities (e.g., Oslo to Tromsø, Reykjavik to northern Scandinavia, or Canada to Alaska) often pass through aurora zones.
Long-haul transatlantic or polar routes are especially promising.
🪟 3. Choose Your Seat Wisely
- Always pick a window seat
- Sit on the north-facing side of the aircraft (ask at check-in)
- Avoid sitting near the wing (less light pollution and obstruction)
🌑 4. When to Look
- After takeoff, wait until the cabin lights dim
- The aurora may be visible as faint green or white glows
- Nighttime flights with clear skies increase your chances
🧴 5. Tips for Better Viewing
- Keep your window free of smudges
- Let your eyes adjust to the dark
- Bring a scarf or hoodie to block out cabin light
- Avoid watching entertainment screens — they can ruin your night vision
📸 6. Photography: Difficult, But Not Impossible
Capturing aurora from a plane is tough, but not impossible. If you try:
- Use a smartphone with night mode
- Set it to long exposure and stabilize it on the window frame
- Expect soft results – planes are constantly moving
🎯 Get Your Window Seat
It’s one of the most magical travel bonuses you can imagine — and it happens at 35,000 feet. So next time you fly north at night, look out the window… the aurora might just be waving hello.
