Flying in Antarctica: a pilot's guide

Flying in Antarctica

Antarctica has 43 airports and airfields in our database, of which 1 have scheduled airline service. Civil aviation is overseen by the national civil aviation authority.

Overview

Polar aviation refers to aviation in the polar regions of the Earth. Specifically, one may speak of Arctic aviation and Antarctic aviation in the Arctic and Antarctic respectively. The major factors which define the character of polar aviation include remoteness from major populated areas, specific physical geography and climate. Specific factors include low temperatures, frequent changes of meteorological conditions, polar night, the uncertainty of magnetic compasses, difficulties in radio communication, and lack of landmarks.

*(Overview adapted from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA.)*

Licensing & regulations

Pilot licences, ratings, medicals and currency are issued and regulated by the national civil aviation authority; confirm current requirements with the official authority.

Major airports

• Amundsen–Scott South Pole Station Airport
• Boulder Clay Runway
• Concordia Skyway
• Grandfather Skiway
• Vostok Skiway
• Williams Field Skiway

Browse all 43 Antarctica airports and the airspace around them.

Reference and flight-planning context only — not for navigation. Licensing, airspace and entry rules change; always confirm with the national civil aviation authority and the current AIP before you fly.