Intra-continental operations
Since 2004, 2 turboprop ski equipped CASA 212-400 (C-212) aircraft have been based in Antarctica during the summer. The aircraft have sufficient range to 'ferry' from Hobart to Antarctica at the beginning and end of each season.
The C-212s transport people and cargo from Wilkins (near Casey) to skiways at Davis, Mawson and other field locations. A C-212 flight from Casey to Davis takes approximately 5 1/2 hours, and from Davis to Mawson about 2 1/2 hours.
When conditions permit, personnel travelling on to Davis and Mawson will connect directly with a C-212 flight from Wilkins. Otherwise they will be transferred to Casey where they will stay in the transit accommodation until they can fly out. There is also emergency accommodation at the runway should the need arise.
The planes work closely with 3 AS 350 BA 'Squirrel' helicopters, operated by Helicopter Resources Pty Ltd, to provide support to a range of projects. Helicopters are the only means of transporting passengers between Davis station and the skiway on the Davis Plateau, 20 nautical miles away, a journey of about 20 minutes.
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