Norse Atlantic Airways has marked another milestone in scientific research support by successfully landing its Boeing 787 Dreamliner on the blue ice runway at Troll Airfield in Antarctica for the second consecutive year. The aircraft, registered as LN-FNC and named “Everglades,” touched down on November 15, 2024, at 10:55 a.m. local time. It carried 10.5 tons of research equipment and scientists to assist the Norwegian Polar Institute and Aircontact in advancing their Antarctic missions.
A Milestone in Antarctic Missions
This year’s mission followed the Oslo-Cape Town-Troll Airfield-Cape Town-Oslo route, replicating the journey of last year’s historic inaugural landing. Cape Town, South Africa, served as a critical stop before the final leg to Antarctica. Norse Atlantic plans to conduct four total charters to support scientific research, reinforcing its capability to manage complex and remote logistical operations.
Norse Atlantic’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner played a vital role in ensuring the Antarctica mission’s success. Its fuel efficiency allowed it to complete a round trip between Cape Town and Antarctica without refueling, reducing both costs and environmental impact. Its large cargo capacity enabled the secure transport of vital research equipment essential for operations at isolated scientific research stations.
“Landing such a large aircraft for the second time is an important milestone for us in Antarctica. It opens up new opportunities for logistics at Troll, as we can transport both more cargo and more people in the same flight, which will also help strengthen Norwegian research in Antarctica,” explained John Guldahl, Director of Operations and Logistics at the Norwegian Polar Institute.
Operational Excellence in Extreme Environments
Norse Atlantic Airways’ commitment to operational excellence was highlighted by meticulous planning and execution. Mette Birkedahl, Director of Charter and ACMI at Norse Atlantic Airways, emphasized the airline’s capabilities, stating, “Returning to Antarctica with our Dreamliner reaffirms Norse Atlantic’s ability to handle complex logistical operations. We’re proud to demonstrate the capabilities and efficiency of our aircraft and operational excellence of the Norse Atlantic charter team, from meticulous planning to precise execution, demonstrating our role as a trusted partner for missions to even the most remote destinations.”
Aircontact, one of the world’s oldest air brokers and a vital partner in the mission, highlighted the importance of the Dreamliner’s features for this unique operation. Daniel Carey, Air Broker and Spokesperson for Aircontact, remarked, “To have Norse Atlantic Airways with the B787-900 as an ACE in the deck for the operator to Troll to support Norwegian Polar Institute is a unique value in terms of not needing fuel and the cargo capacity that the B787-9 brings. Additionally, having Norse as a Norwegian operator under the Norwegian CAA adds another valuable asset.”
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner continues to excel as the aircraft of choice for remote and challenging missions. With a range of up to 15,400 kilometers, its advanced aerodynamics and lightweight materials reduce fuel consumption and ensure reliability for long-haul flights. This efficiency allows for both cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint, emitting 25% less CO2 compared to older aircraft.
