What it's like to land a plane on an ice runway in Antarctica
The Australian Antarctic Program depends on the ice runway at Wilkins Aerodrome for expeditions and flights to Antarctica.
The Australian Antarctic Program operates the Wilkins Aerodrome, one of the world's most isolated and important airstrips, located on a glacier in Antarctica. Each year, a dedicated team of expeditioners prepares this ice runway to facilitate access to the region during the summer months, when it is operational, showcasing the extreme commitment needed for such a task.
Australian pilot Dan Colborne, who has flown to Antarctica for over two decades, expresses ongoing excitement about landing on the ice, emphasizing the unique experience that comes with flying in such an extraordinary environment. This seasonal airstrip is not just critical for transportation but also plays a vital role in supporting scientific research and expeditions in one of the planet's harshest climates.
With no plans to create a permanent all-season runway, the reliance on this ice runway highlights the logistical challenges faced by the Australian Antarctic Division. Despite these challenges, the operation continues to symbolize the remarkable human ability to adapt and thrive in the most inhospitable places on Earth.