A plane full of passengers were given the perfect view of the 'Great American Eclipse'.

The 260 customers aboard Virgin Atlantic Flight VS5 from London Heathrow to Miami were able to observe the phenomenon from high above the coulds at 35,000 feet.

The plane perfectly intercepted the path of the total solar eclipse and passengers were given special glasses to view the once-in-a-lifetime eclipse, the first to take place coast to coast over American skies for 99 years.

Virgin Atlantic Captain Jason Shergold, said: “I’ve been flying for 31 years, and seen some incredible sights from the flight deck – but watching a total solar eclipse at 35,00ft was one of the most amazing experiences that any pilot could have.

"It was a real honour to captain this special eclipse flight and share the experience with our customers on our way to Miami.”

Malcolm Sutherland from Virgin Atlantic, added: “It’s rare enough to catch a glimpse of an eclipse on the ground  so to see one at 35,000ft is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity.

"The eclipse is visible for just over a 100 mile radius so when we realised the VS5 flight to Miami would fly into this area at exactly the right time it caused quite a bit of excitement. 

"We have worked with the pilots and air traffic control to track the eclipse for as long as possible, giving our customers and crew one of the best views in the world.”