By A crew aboard a Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) C-130H (NZ) Hercules has accomplished a notable medical evacuation (medevac) operation from Antarctica, overcoming the challenges posed by rapidly diminishing daylight.
The mission, conducted on April 17th, 2024, also signified the repatriation of the final 12 New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel from Antarctica, marking the culmination of a busy summer season for participants in Operation Antarctica.
The RNZAF Hercules crew efficiently executed the medevac of an American patient from the US National Science Foundation’s McMurdo Station, promptly responding to a weekend request.
Accompanied by an NZDF doctor and medic, the aircraft departed for Antarctica’s Phoenix Airfield on Monday morning, successfully transporting the patient to Christchurch later that night. Upon arrival, the patient was expeditiously transferred to hospital care by ambulance staff.
The conclusion of the flight marked the end of a season dedicated to supporting scientific and research initiatives in Antarctica, which have now reverted to pre-pandemic levels of activity.
NZDF personnel contribute to Operation Antarctica in collaboration with Antarctica New Zealand and as part of the Joint Logistics Pool (JLP) with the United States Antarctic Programme.
During the 2023/24 summer season, the RNZAF provided 10 C-130 Hercules and five Boeing 757 flights as part of the JLP. Additionally, personnel stationed at Christchurch’s Harewood Terminal managed cargo and passenger movements for all aircraft supporting Antarctic programs.
This season, the Harewood team facilitated 141 south and northbound flights, accommodating a total of 4,197 passengers and 860,000 kilograms of cargo, including perishables and equipment.
Major Lucy Wright, the Senior National Officer for Operation Antarctica, underscored the involvement of approximately 200 personnel over the summer, comprising aircrew, support staff, and personnel deployed for specific roles.
The NZDF’s contributions encompassed various roles, including drivers, cargo handlers, ship offload teams, chefs, and communications operators, all crucial in supporting researchers in the field.
As Major Wright emphasized, the NZDF remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting scientific endeavors in Antarctica, with preparations already underway for the forthcoming Operation Antarctica season.
