Seek out the aurora borealis on this unique flight, complete with pre-flight dinner and expert presentation
Witnessing the otherworldly phenomenon known as the aurora
borealis, or Northern Lights, at its brightest, in the Arctic
Circle, is an experience that is on most people's bucket list. But
for some, the idea of trekking through the snow in below-zero
temperatures fills them with dread. For those people, this special
dinner and flight package may be the answer.
This unique trip affords you the opportunity to see the
breathtaking, sky-filling display without interruption from bad
weather or ground-based light pollution and without getting your
feet wet.
For more than 20 years, our travel partner Omega Breaks has been
flying passengers in search of the Northern Lights in the easiest
and most affordable way possible Your trip will begin at Sofitel
London Gatwick, where you'll be given two illustrated briefings by
expert astronomers. World-class astrophotographer and BBC The
Sky at Night regular Pete Lawrence will tell you what to
expect, how the trip will work and what causes the incredible light
display. You'll then enjoy a three-course dinner, before boarding
your flight into the night sky.
During your journey, you and your fellow passengers will be
given equal chance to take their turn in the window seat to enjoy
spectacular views of the night sky, including the Northern
Lights.
The aircraft will then turn around, and complimentary tea and
coffee will be served as you journey back to Gatwick, discussing
the incredible spectacle you've seen.
Northern Lights experts
Ahead of your journey, you will be joined by astronomer Pete
Lawrence, who has appeared on Blue Peter, as well as
presenting on the BBC's The Sky at Night since 2005. An
aurora expert, he will provide you with a wealth of information on
the many wonders you'll be able to see from the aeroplane during
your flight, from the Milky Way to Orion's Belt. With Peter on the
night will be either Nigel Bradbury or Dr Lee Sproats. Nigel is a
Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society and a veteran of previous
Northern Lights flights. Lee has also appeared on The Sky at
Night and has worked in the physics department at the
University of Surrey.
Fly above the Arctic Circle
From the ground, seekers of the aurora borealis can be hampered by
cloud cover or local light pollution. By flying above the clouds,
weather issues are eliminated and you're far enough away from earth
to give you the best chance to see the night sky. During the
flight, the cabin lights will be extinguished to allow your eyes to
adapt to the conditions and optimise your view outside the
cabin.
In the darkness, you'll be carefully guided to rotate your time
in the window seat with your fellow passengers to ensure everyone
on board gets ample opportunity to see the Northern Lights. Your
two experts will be on hand throughout the flight to point out
constellations and further explain what you're seeing.
The food at the hotel is overseen by award-winning executive chef
David Woods, whose modern British menu features the finest locally
sourced ingredients. Before you take off, you'll enjoy a delicious
three-course meal and, on the return leg of the flight, you'll be
served free tea and coffee on board.
