Antarctic scenic flights on the 787

[Mattg]

Even though Qantas' Boeing 747s have been retired, Antarctica Flights will continue to operate charter sightseeing flights to Antarctica this summer. They will now use a Qantas Boeing 787 Dreamliner, rather than the 747.

Seven flights are scheduled for next summer. It could be one of very few current opportunities to go overseas this year... even if you do have to fly back to Australia at the end of the day!

Looks like the price is based on the class of service, whether you're at a window seat and whether the view is obstructed by the wing. Mercifully, it looks like the middle "E" seats in Economy are being blocked on these flights.

Antarctica Flights - Antarctica Flights

For over 30 years, we’ve been offering privately chartered flights that provide unparalleled access to Antarctica’s pristine wilderness. Since 1994, our expert team has led the way in aerial exploration, allowing you to experience the true beauty of the white continent from the comfort of the...

www.antarcticaflights.com.au

I do wonder how these flights work with the 787 and EDTO restrictions, etc.

 

[Jean Prouvaire]

Not that I'm at all likely to go, but curious: do you get status credits for these flights?

 

[Mattg]

Not that I'm at all likely to go, but curious: do you get status credits for these flights?

I don't believe so as they are charter flights. @JohnM may be able to confirm.

 

[JohnM]

I don't believe so as they are charter flights. @JohnM may be able to confirm.

Correct.

 

[flydoc]

I do wonder how these flights work with the 787 and EDTO restrictions, etc.

From an article at traveller.com.au -

the 787-9 Dreamliner, which Qantas normally uses on its 17-hour non-stop flight from Perth to London, became a possible replacement in 2018 after the US Federal Aviation Administration extended the aircraft's extended operations (ETOPS) certificate.
For Dreamliners, this was previously limited to 180 minutes' flying time, but was extended by the FAA to 330 minutes - five and a half hours - making the Antarctica flights possible.

Grounded Qantas Dreamliners to take off for Antarctica

It isn't an international flight (because it doesn't land) but this could still be one of the first opportunities to leave Australia by air.

www.traveller.com.au

 

[JohnM]

I don't believe so as they are charter flights. @JohnM may be able to confirm.

I might add that even though they are charters and do not earn SCs or points, lounge access was available.

The notes from Antarctica Flights say: 'Qantas Club members, Ice Class (read F) and Business Class Customers have access to the Qantas Club lounges prior to departure.'

It runs as a QF flight (QF2906 for mine ex. PER in 2017).

 

[AustraliaPoochie]

Aud$7999 in J return!
In Y its not so bad at Aud$1999, with seat swap.
Edit: just read JohnM's reply above, We do not know if we will earn SC from this, and if there is any lounge access for those with the $ to fly J.

 

[Kiwi_Flyer]

Not that I'm at all likely to go, but curious: do you get status credits for these flights?

Not only is it a charter flight, thus ineligible but the origin to destination distance is zero.

Based on the Antarctic overflight I took some years ago, maintaining physical distancing could be a challenge. While it was a fun & different flight, I'd be wary booking right now (ignoring the fact I currently can't get to Australia to take these flights) as I'd expect a higher than normal risk of cancellation.

 

[kpc]

With Covid 19 active cases in the community, I won't be rushing to get into a metal tube for 12-14 hours....will they Covid swab everyone prior?

 

[JohnM]

I did a TR on the Antarctica flight. Link below, but here: PER-Antarctica-PER: over the ice in Ice.

 

[VPS]

Save your money and get on a boat when you can

 

[UP4014]

From an article at traveller.com.au -

the 787-9 Dreamliner, which Qantas normally uses on its 17-hour non-stop flight from Perth to London, became a possible replacement in 2018 after the US Federal Aviation Administration extended the aircraft's extended operations (ETOPS) certificate.
For Dreamliners, this was previously limited to 180 minutes' flying time, but was extended by the FAA to 330 minutes - five and a half hours - making the Antarctica flights possible.

Grounded Qantas Dreamliners to take off for Antarctica

It isn't an international flight (because it doesn't land) but this could still be one of the first opportunities to leave Australia by air.

www.traveller.com.au

Ah, is this the same FAA that gave the 737 MAX the green light.

 

[JohnM]

Save your money and get on a boat when you can

Or do both .

 

[mviy]

Save your money and get on a boat when you can

I don't think those are any better when it comes to COVID. The corridor, stairs etc. width aren't designed with distancing in mind. In fact the prolonged period in a confined space would make boat trips much worse.