Fantastic Day Trip to Antarctica
DAP Antarctic Airways, a subsidiary of Chile’s Aerovías DAP, stands as a pivotal link between South America and Antarctica, offering specialised air services to the icy continent. Established in 1979 by Domingo Andrés Pivcevic, Aerovías DAP has expanded its operations over the decades, with Antarctic Airways emerging as a dedicated brand for Antarctic ventures.
As I was doing research on the options of flying to Antarctica, DAP Antarctic Airways came up in the research. It is the easiest way to visit Antarctica, with a flight time of just about two hours from Punta Arenas in southern Chile to King George Island in Antarctica. Getting to Punta Arenas takes a lot of time for someone based in Europe like me, but I decided to do the trip after organising an agreement with the airline.
The inaugural Antarctic flight by Aerovías DAP took place on February 12, 1989, utilising a De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter. This marked the beginning of the airline’s commitment to providing access to one of the most remote regions on Earth. Over the years, the fleet evolved to include aircraft such as the King Air 100 and, notably, the British Aerospace 146-200, which commenced Antarctic operations in early 2008. Antarctic Airways operates a fleet tailored for the challenging Antarctic environment.
The primary aircraft include: BAe 146-200: A four-engine jet capable of short takeoffs and landings, ideal for the continent’s limited runways. Avro RJ85/100: Similar to the BAe 146, these aircraft are designed for efficiency and reliability in extreme conditions. DHC-6 Twin Otter: Renowned for its versatility, this turboprop is adept at handling short, unprepared airstrips.
These aircraft are equipped to transport passengers and cargo. Notably, some planes feature distinctive penguin-themed liveries, celebrating the region’s iconic wildlife.
Antarctic Airways offers a range of services catering to both tourists and logistical operations:
Full-Day Antarctica Tours: Departing from Punta Arenas, flights traverse landmarks such as the Magellan Strait and Cape Horn before landing on King George Island. Passengers explore scientific bases and the Chilean village “Villa Las Estrellas,” experiencing the continent’s unique environment within a day.
Overnight Antarctica Programs: For a more immersive experience, guests stay in specially conditioned camps near Collins Glacier, witnessing the Antarctic sunset and engaging in guided explorations.
I decided to do the day trip and it was a very exciting experience, starting with a pick-up in the morning at the hotel I was staying followed by check-in at the airport. On board the plane, a lunchbox was provided. The plane had no toilet onboard and no cabin crew, just pilots and passengers.
After about two hours, we arrived on King George Island and I had thereby visited my seventh continent, and in a very easy way compared to some of the alternatives, which include cruises through the tough the Drake Passage, which is something I would like to avoid. I have been very seasick on ferries before, and I once did a 21-day cruise, which I had big problems on. I don’t like being stuck on a ferry without the possibility of leaving.
After arriving, we went in a van and soon after saw penguins, followed by an exciting zodiac cruise with stunning scenery. King George Island hosts at least 15 named glaciers. These include: Anna Glacier, Baranowski Glacier, Domeyko Glacier, Ecology Glacier, Eldred Glacier, Flagstaff Glacier, Fourcade Glacier, Goetel Glacier, Krak Glacier, Lange Glacier, Noble Glacier, Poetry Glacier, Polar Club Glacier, Stenhouse Glacier, and Usher Glacier.
The day trip took place on a Saturday, but we were actually set to leave the day before; but as a group, we decided to wait a day due to a much better weather forecast. Had we gone on the day before, we would probably not have done the zodiac trip. After the zodiac trip, the forecast meant we should get ready to leave King George Island. A lovely day trip was over, but one that left a great impression on me. I was very satisfied having visited my seventh continent and for having had a proper experience. The staff was professional and kind, and I can highly recommend this day trip to anyone looking to visit Antarctica on a day trip.
With over 36 years of continuous operation, DAP boasts an exemplary safety record, having logged over 100,000 flight hours without incidents compromising passenger safety. The airline’s pilots and crew possess extensive experience in polar aviation, ensuring adept handling of Antarctica’s unpredictable weather. In the 2022-2023 season, DAP Antarctic Airways planned approximately 180 flights to Antarctica, marking a 40% increase in operations. This expansion underscores the growing interest in Antarctic tourism and the airline’s capacity to meet this demand.
DAP Antarctic Airways exemplifies the spirit of exploration and resilience, providing a vital link to the Earth’s southernmost frontier. Through a commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and unparalleled service, the airline offers adventurers and researchers alike a gateway to the inspiring landscapes of Antarctica.
