Story by ANDREW KACIMAIWAI
The Royal New Zealand Air Force has announced its summer schedule to Antarctica with 16 flights due to operate between September and March.
The flights are part of New Zealand’s commitment to the Joint Logistics Pool it shares with the United States in which the NZDF also deploys personnel in specialist roles.
This enables Antarctica New Zealand to leverage US capabilities in support of the New Zealand science program each year.
NZDF personnel work at New Zealand’s Scott Base and the US McMurdo Station in Antarctica.
At the height of the summer season, about 70 NZDF personnel will be on the ice, including a Scott Base Support Team of two logistics personnel, two plant operators, four communications personnel and a chef.
The logistics personnel support cargo processing, fixed-wing and helicopter operations and ship on- and off-load processes, while those in communications maintain a watch-keeping function, including checking in with teams out in the field.
Aviation refuellers, firefighters, drivers, carpenters and electricians are also deployed.
The NZDF has a Senior National Officer to oversee its activities in Antarctica and supports Antarctica NZ and the US National Science Foundation with long-term planning for operations.
Major Lucy Wright said deploying to Antarctica was a unique experience for everyone involved.
“It’s a complex operation as it involves moving personnel in and out of Antarctica at different times,” she said.
“Some personnel will be there for the summer season while others go for a set period, such as the ship offload teams which unload re-supply ships when they get alongside McMurdo Station at the height of summer.
“Everyone who goes gets to experience an incredible environment and work with a great bunch of people ultimately contributing to internationally important science and research work.”
Over the 2023-24 summer, up to 200 NZDF personnel will be involved in supporting operations in Antarctica.
Tasman Aircraft 