Procedures for field travel within the Australian Antarctic Program are within prescribed guidelines set out in the AAD Operations Manual and also in the AAD Field Manual, a copy of which is issued to every expeditioner.
Safety is a major consideration for deep field operations, and detailed planning is essential, including the evaluation of likely surface conditions and hazards. Where there is the potential for crevassing, aerial reconnaissance is carried out prior to ground-based small vehicle travel.
Depending on the conditions, training in specific skills will be provided, and in many cases, a trained field guide will be appointed to accompany the expedition.
For details on the most recent maps, visit the Australian Antarctic Data Centre map catalogue to download digital maps.
Fuel management and following proper refuelling procedures is an important part of field travel, and all expeditioners must follow the AAD's Fuel Transfer Standard Operating Procedures.