ICY RECEPTION

U.S. Base in Antarctica Evacuated in High-Risk Rescue

The 20-hour mission was described as “one of the most challenging” for any flight crew.

Three people were airlifted from a U.S. research base in Antarctica in a dramatic rescue mission executed in total darkness and bone-numbing cold, New Zealand’s air force revealed. The emergency flight retrieved one patient needing urgent medical care and two others requiring treatment from McMurdo Station. The Royal New Zealand Air Force said the aircraft landed safely in Christchurch early Wednesday—but didn’t disclose the patients’ nationalities or the nature of the emergency. Air Commodore Andy Scott described the 20-hour mission as “one of the most challenging” for any flight crew. “It is an extremely challenging environment to fly in on night vision goggles due to the extreme weather conditions, which are highly changeable at this time of year and makes accurate forecasting a challenge,” he said. With temperatures plunging to minus 11°F and not a hint of sunlight during the Antarctic winter, crews navigated the icy landing strip using night-vision kits. “We are so very grateful,” said U.S. Chargé d’Affaires to New Zealand Melissa Sweeney. “Our Kiwi partners didn’t hesitate... Their skill and readiness are truly world-class.” Royal New Zealand Air Force previously pulled off similar Antarctic rescues in 2021 and 2024.