OSLO- Norse Atlantic Airways (N0) has completed its second charter flight to Antarctica, marking another milestone in its support of scientific research on the continent.
One year after becoming the first airline to land a Boeing 787 Dreamliner on Antarctica’s blue ice runway at Troll Airfield, the airline returned for another successful mission.
Norse Atlantic Antarctica Flights
On November 15, 2024, at 10:55 local time, Norse Atlantic’s Boeing 787, registered as LN-FNC and named “Everglades,” landed at Troll Airfield. The aircraft transported 10.5 tons of research equipment and scientists for the Norwegian Polar Institute and Aircontact.
The mission followed the same route as the airline’s historic first charter flight, operating along the Oslo-Cape Town-Troll Airfield-Cape Town-Oslo path. A stop in Cape Town, South Africa, preceded the Antarctic leg of the journey.
Norse Atlantic plans to complete four charter flights to Antarctica in total, underlining its growing role in supporting scientific initiatives. The airline credits this success to its highly skilled pilots, well-trained crew, and advanced Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
Executive Remarks
“Returning to Antarctica with our Dreamliner highlights Norse Atlantic’s ability to handle complex logistical operations,” said Mette Birkedahl, Director of Charter and ACMI at Norse Atlantic Airways. She emphasized the meticulous planning and execution required for such missions, reinforcing the airline’s reputation as a trusted partner for challenging projects.
The Norwegian Polar Institute also hailed the mission’s success. “Landing such a large aircraft for the second time is a significant milestone,” said John Guldahl, Director of Operations and Logistics. He noted the enhanced logistical capabilities provided by the Dreamliner, which can carry more cargo and passengers per flight, bolstering Norwegian research initiatives in Antarctica.
Daniel Carey, spokesperson for Aircontact, underscored the Dreamliner’s unmatched value. “The Boeing 787-9 offers unique advantages, including no need for refueling during the Antarctic mission and its superior cargo capacity,” he said. He also highlighted the importance of working with Norse Atlantic as a Norwegian operator under the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), ensuring operational security and compliance.
Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner: Key Features
The Boeing 787-9 is engineered for efficiency and long-haul performance, with a range of up to 15,400 kilometers. Its advanced design and lightweight composite materials reduce fuel consumption, making it one of the most efficient aircraft in its class.
The Dreamliner prioritizes passenger comfort, featuring larger windows, improved cabin pressure, and higher humidity levels, which help reduce jet lag. Its quieter engines ensure a more peaceful onboard experience.
Environmentally, the aircraft emits 25% lower CO2 emissions compared to earlier-generation models, aligning with Norse Atlantic’s goal to minimize its carbon footprint. Equipped with cutting-edge avionics and safety systems, the 787-9 ensures high operational reliability, enabling consistent, timely service for charter clients.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News