Media release
8 February 2011

More Erebus Families to Travel to Antarctica

One hundred and four family members of those lost in the Erebus tragedy will now travel to Antarctica on a remembrance flight next week.

The Government announced in August last year that the Royal New Zealand Air Force would fly one of its Boeing 757 aircraft to Scott Base this summer season, enabling family representatives to travel to Antarctica and spend a few hours experiencing the unique environment that drew those on flight TE901 to it more than 31 years ago.

Antarctica New Zealand had originally indicated up to 80 family members could be accommodated for the day at Scott Base, but thanks to extensive on-the-ground planning in conjunction with the United States Antarctic Program, that number has now increased to 104.

Air New Zealand conducted an independent ballot in September for 80 seats on the flight with the additional seats offered to reserves drawn at the time of the ballot.

Family members taking part in the flight are from throughout New Zealand as well as 13 travelling from overseas.

Wednesday 16 February 2011 has now been confirmed by Antarctica New Zealand as the scheduled date for the flight, with alternate weather days of Thursday 17 February, Friday 18 February and Saturday 19 February 2011.

The remembrance flight will depart from and return to Christchurch. Family members will spend approximately five hours on the ground at Scott Base, and participate in a memorial service conducted by the Very Reverend Peter Beck, Dean of Christchurch.

ENDS

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