The New Zealand Air Force conducted a complex and dangerous evacuation operation from the American McMurdo research base in Antarctica. The C-130J Hercules aircraft took off from the Christchurch base overnight, after a long wait for suitable weather, and successfully landed on the ice strip of McMurdo Station on Tuesday night. Three employees of the National Science Foundation who needed emergency medical care, as well as two more people with medical problems, were evacuated. After loading the patients, the plane returned to Christchurch on Wednesday morning, making the entire round trip in less than 20 hours.
This mission took place in difficult conditions of total darkness and extreme frosts below -25°C, using a night vision kit for landing and takeoff on an icy site without alternative airfields. Refueling of the aircraft in such conditions was carried out with the engines running. Military medics provided medical assistance to the evacuees right on board.
At McMurdo Station, where there are usually about 200 people in the winter months, the medical staff is limited and has facilities comparable to an emergency department, but is not equipped for serious emergencies, which led to the need for emergency evacuation.
Andy Scott, Commander of the New Zealand Air Force Air Group, noted that landing a large four—engine aircraft in such conditions is one of the most difficult tests for the crew. The Charge d'affaires of the United States in New Zealand assessed the actions of the New Zealand military as daring, dangerous and courageous.
Thus, the New Zealand Air Force successfully conducted one of the most difficult rescue operations in Antarctica, demonstrating a high level of professionalism in extreme conditions.
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