Australia's Antarctic Division has put its two new EADS Casa C-212-400s into service on transcontinental flights in Antarctica. The aircraft are the first of the type in the world to be equipped with skis.
The aircraft are operating on transport and field support services between the Antarctic bases of Casey, Davis and Mawson. They are operated by service provider Sydney-based Skytraders, which was responsible for equipping the turboprops with skis, working with EADS Casa and Canadian ski supplier Kehler Skis. In addition to the skis, the aircraft feature a large rear door and ramp, underwing fuel tanks and sensor systems.
The aircraft left Sydney in late December following completion of the retrofit. They then flew from Hobart, Tasmania, to the Antarctic base of Casey, where they conducted proving flights and are now in full operation, flying personnel from Davis, says Skytraders chief executive Norman Mackay.
Source: Flight International