Plans for a second visit to Antarctica for Erebus family representatives announced

A planned day-trip to Antarctica for up to 80 family representatives of those lost in the 1979 Erebus tragedy will provide an important opportunity for healing and closure, Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Rob Fyfe said today.

The Government announced today that the Royal New Zealand Air Force will fly one of its Boeing 757s to Scott Base this summer season. Up to 80 family representatives of those lost in the tragedy will be able to spend a few hours experiencing the unique environment that drew those on flight TE 901 to it almost 31 years ago.

Mr Fyfe says Air New Zealand has been working since late last year with the Government, RNZAF and Antarctica New Zealand, as owners of the resources required to support visits to Antarctica, on a further and final opportunity for family members who lost loved ones on November 28 1979.

He says the airline was determined to try and create another opportunity following feedback before and after the 30th anniversary commemorations last year, which saw six family representatives travel to Antarctica.

“Many of the families who lost loved ones in the Erebus tragedy have reiterated to me how important it is to them to have the opportunity to travel to Antarctica and we hope this trip, in some small way, will help the families who have grieved their losses for more than 30 years.”

Mr Fyfe said he was grateful for the support of the Prime Minister, Chief of Air Force Air Vice-Marshal Graham Lintott, Antarctica New Zealand Chief Executive Lou Sanson and the Director of United States Polar Programs Dr Karl Erb for their efforts to ensure the trip to one of the world’s most challenging and hostile environments could take place.

A large number of operational details are still being worked through by the team.

“There are enormous logistical challenges to overcome in organising a group visit of such a significant size and we are greatly appreciative of the support of a large number of parties in helping to make this trip a reality.”

Air New Zealand will again be operating an independent ballot for seats on the flight to visit Antarctica.

This will be open to immediate family representatives of passengers, cabin crew and flight crew.

There will be a formal call for applications for the ballot, which will be drawn by a senior member of the New Zealand Police and overseen by an independent auditor.