This footage was filmed and produced 23 January 2024.

AMSA Completes Historic Challenger Rescue Aircraft Mission to Antarctica, Expanding Search and Rescue Capabilities

In a groundbreaking achievement, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has successfully conducted the first flight of an AMSA Challenger rescue aircraft to Antarctica, marking a significant milestone in enhancing Australia's aerial search and rescue capabilities.

The Essendon-based AMSA Challenger rescue aircraft completed a vital supply drop to researchers at Durmont d’Urville Station in Antarctica, showcasing the aircraft's extended range and operational capabilities in challenging environments. The aircraft seamlessly executed the mission, making the round trip in an impressive eight hours.

Australia boasts one of the largest search and rescue regions globally, encompassing a substantial portion of Antarctica. The AMSA Challenger aircraft, operated by Leidos Airborne Solutions, demonstrated its advanced search and rescue capabilities during the mission, further solidifying AMSA's commitment to excellence in the global search and rescue community.

AMSA Executive Director Response Mark Morrow lauded the successful mission as a significant advancement in Australia's search and rescue capabilities. He emphasized the importance of adapting to new technologies and praised the team's dedication in trialling and implementing innovative search and rescue solutions.

Leidos Airborne Solutions Vice President James Woodhams commended the collaborative efforts of the Government and private sector in evolving aerial assets to better serve the needs of the community.