How pilots land aircraft at Marambio Base, Argentina’s most challenging Antarctic airstrip

Landing at Argentina’s Marambio Base is one of the most complex aviation operations that the nation’s pilots can face. Located in Antarctica, the research station serves as the country's main gateway to the White Continent and remains operational throughout the year.

Unlike conventional airports, the runway is not paved. Aircraft land on a permafrost surface – a permanently frozen layer of ground made up of compacted soil, rocks and gravel.

Marambio Base is situated on an elevated plateau nearly 200 metres above sea level. This unique location made it possible to construct the only Argentine airfield currently capable of receiving large aircraft in Antarctic territory.

The runway measures 1,208 metres in length and 40 metres in width, dimensions that demand exceptional precision during approach and landing manoeuvres.

The principal user of the runway is the Argentine Air Force’s Lockheed C-130 Hercules, although other aircraft, including the Saab 340, Fokker F-28 and Twin Otter, also operate there for logistical missions.

Snow, ice and strong winds are part of the everyday environment. At certain times of the year, wind gusts can reach speeds of almost 150 kilometres per hour.

Adding to the challenge is the frequent reduction in visibility caused by storms and local weather phenomena that can affect an aircraft’s final approach.

One of the best-known phenomena is the so-called “capuchón” or “hood” – a fog formation that surrounds the plateau on which the base is located and can dramatically reduce visibility.

When this phenomenon occurs, the cloud base can drop to less than 20 metres above the ground, making both landings and take-offs impossible until weather conditions improve.

– TIMES/NA