A Second Consecutive Landing, Marking a New Chapter in Scientific Polar Exploration

One year after making history as the first Dreamliner to land on Antarctica’s unique blue ice runway at Troll Airfield, Norse Atlantic Airways has successfully completed its second charter for the purpose of scientific research on the continent.

On November 15, 2024, at 10:55 local time, Norse Atlantic’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner, registered as LN-FNC, and named “Everglades”, successfully touched down, carrying 10,5 tons of research equipment and scientists for the Norwegian Polar Institute and Aircontact.

The journey followed the Oslo-Cape Town-Troll Airfield-Cape Town-Oslo route similar the airline’s historic first landing last year, including a stop in Cape Town, South Africa, before the final Antarctic leg.

Norse Atlantic is set to complete a total of four charters to Antarctica dedicated to support scientific research. This accomplishment reflects the airline’s growing reputation of operational excellence, demonstrated by the expertise of its highly trained pilots and crew and its state-of-the-art Boeing aircraft.

The Dreamliner, uniquely suited for long-distance flights, is renowned for its fuel efficiency, enabling it to complete a round trip from Cape Town to Antarctica without refueling—delivering both cost and environmental benefits. Its large cargo hold allowed for the secure transport of significant volumes of research equipment vital to operations at remote scientific research stations.

“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 for missions to even the most remote destinations”, expressed Mette Birkedahl, Director of Charter and ACMI at Norse Atlantic Airways.

Landing Such a Big Plane in Antarctica

“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,” says Director of Operations and Logistics John Guldahl at the Norwegian Polar Institute.

Daniel Carey, Air Broker and Spokesperson for Aircontact, one of the oldest air brokers globally, specializing in providing aviation services and serving as an important link for aviation missions, highlighted the Drealiner’s capacity and the importance of involving civil aviation authorities for operational quality and security and securing their approval ahead of the mission.

“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 B787-900 brings. Additionally, having Norse as a Norwegian operator under the Norwegian CAA adds another valuable asset.”

Key Highlights of the Boeing 787-9:

• Unmatched Range and Efficiency: The Boeing 787-9 is designed for long-haul flights, with a range of up to 15,400 kilometers. Its advanced aerodynamics and lightweight composite materials significantly reduce fuel consumption, making it one of the most efficient aircraft in its class.
• The Dreamliner features larger windows, better cabin pressure, and higher humidity levels, which enhance passenger comfort and reduce the effects of jet lag. Its quieter engines ensure a more pleasant and peaceful journey for all on board.
• The Boeing 787-9 emits 25% lower CO2 emissions compared to previous-generation aircraft, aligning with our goal to minimize our carbon footprint.
• Equipped with cutting-edge avionics and safety systems, the Boeing 787-9 ensures a high level of operational reliability enabling Norse Atlantic Airways to provide a consistent and timely service to charter customers.

For more information on Norse Atlantic Airways please visit www.flynorse.com.

Norse Atlantic Airways documented the historic first landing of its Boeing 787 Dreamliner on November 15, 2023. Watch the three-part documentary on the airline’s YouTube channel: