Dutch pilot Christiaan van Heijst has garnered attention on social media after sharing a breathtaking photograph taken from his Boeing 747 cockpit window. In the Instagram post, he described encountering a rare sight dubbed as a “turquoise aerial fire” in the form of aurora borealis while flying over the North Atlantic, a few hundred kilometers south of Iceland.
The pilot’s post not only showcased the mesmerizing natural phenomenon but also provided an insight into the unique experience of a pilot during long-haul flights. He recounted the moment when he spotted the aurora borealis against the backdrop of Reykjavik’s city lights illuminating the horizon in an orange glow, creating a stunning visual contrast.
In addition to the captivating image, Mr. Christiaan shared an entertaining story behind capturing the photo. He described the solitude and isolation of long flights, punctuated by moments of awe-inspiring beauty like the aurora borealis and the distant city lights.
The pilot’s narrative also included an amusing interaction with his Icelandic captain, known for his stoic minimalism and dry sense of humor. Despite minimal communication during the flight, the captain’s brief yet impactful declaration about Iceland being “the center of the universe” added a touch of humor and introspection to the experience.
Since sharing the post, Mr. Christiaan’s photo has gained significant attention, accumulating thousands of likes and comments from impressed viewers. Many praised the pilot’s photography skills and storytelling ability, while others expressed their admiration for the captivating scene captured from the cockpit.
Sources By Agencies
