Traveling on a transatlantic redeye flight—departing late at night from the U.S. and landing in Europe in the morning—presents its own set of challenges. With flights typically lasting between 5 to 8 hours, achieving restful sleep on board is often difficult, leaving travelers fatigued upon arrival. Jet lag is almost inevitable, and arriving in the early morning frequently means your hotel room may not be ready, forcing you to wander through the city in search of coffee or a place to rest.
The Advantage of Daytime Flights
But there may be a solution to this dilemma. Recently, while boarding a Delta flight from JFK to Paris, I experienced a different approach to transatlantic travel. Departing at 8:15 a.m. and landing early at around 9 p.m., I was able to check in, enjoy a late dinner, and fall asleep comfortably in a hotel bed by midnight. This alternative to the traditional redeye not only allowed me to avoid losing a night’s sleep but also helped me adjust to the new time zone more smoothly.
Delta’s New Daytime Flight Service
Delta Airlines introduced this daytime flight option to Paris in March 2024, marking a significant departure from the conventional overnight flights commonly used for East Coast to Europe routes. Traditional redeyes often arrive earlier than scheduled due to tailwinds, reducing the amount of sleep passengers can get.
Benefits for Jet Lag
According to Carlie Gasia, a Certified Sleep Science Coach at Sleepopolis, daytime flights offer a viable solution for those who struggle with redeye flights. “Daytime flights to Europe from the East Coast are a great alternative for those who struggle with red-eye flights,” Gasia explains. “These flights usually leave in the morning and land in the evening, aligning well with a typical day’s schedule. This helps travelers stay awake until a normal bedtime in the new time zone, making it easier to transition.”
Current Options and Availability
At present, Delta is the only carrier offering this daytime flight service from the East Coast to Paris. However, other airlines provide daytime options on routes primarily between New York and London. These flights generally operate from cities such as Boston, Washington D.C., and Chicago, with the range of daily daytime flights varying from 6 to 12 during peak summer months. Carriers include Delta Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, JetBlue Airways, Norse Atlantic Airways, United Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic Airways.
Daytime Flights and Business Travel
Previously, daytime flights were often reserved for high-ranking business travelers who could afford to lose a day in the sky. This concept, originally known as Chairman’s Flights, has evolved with the availability of WiFi on many flights, making daytime travel a more viable option for those who struggle with in-flight sleep or adjusting to new time zones. However, airlines often face logistical challenges as the late arrival times can limit onward connections.
Tips for Daytime Flights
To maximize the benefits of daytime flights, staying awake during the flight is crucial. Julia Siemen, a Certified Sleep Science Coach at Sleep Advisor, advises passengers to engage in light reading or work, listen to music or podcasts, and take frequent walks around the cabin to maintain energy levels. “For passengers on daytime flights to Europe, it is usually smart to stay awake during the flight to better adjust to the time zone of your destination,” Siemen suggests.
Alternative Solutions for Red-Eye Flights
For those who must take redeye flights, both experts recommend staying hydrated and minimizing coffee and alcohol intake. “Red-eye flights often lead to poor sleep quality and more severe jet lag,” Siemen notes. “Upon arrival, get some natural sunlight to help reset your internal clock. Although it may be challenging, this can help you adjust more quickly.”
Future Outlook
As the availability of daytime transatlantic flights increases, travelers are encouraged to provide feedback to airlines through social media or email. This could help expand these options and improve the travel experience for those seeking a more comfortable and effective way to cross the Atlantic.