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Posted by administrator in
LIVE coverage
Wednesday, November 7. 2007
Yesterday evening the winds abated, so the 1st batch Antarctic-bound were sent to the airport at 11pm... but were turned back because of a technical problem with the plane.
"We taxied out, then turned around and taxied back due to a small technical problem." said Shaun, one of the Kiwi (New Zealand) guides for Vinson (highest point in Antarctica).
Our carrier: The Ilyushin Il-76. A massive Russian plane - old in design, but still the best option for Antarctic travel.
Hopefully, the problem will be resolved quickly, in order to take advantage of clear weather to transport the first batch.
Within 12 hours of the plane's return, our team will be placed on standby. The Russian pilots must rest 12 hours before attempting another flight out to Patriot Hills, Antarctica.
Today we will have an Antarctic briefing here in Punta, just before loading the sleds in preparation for the flight.
Thank you all for all the messages you have been sending me (and the rest of the team) via the blog. Each and every message means a lot to me, and I will undoubtedly miss these when I get out on the ice. I will console myself by sending you dispatches, then imagining your thoughts and well-wishes as you read them.
Big hug to you all,
Max
tags: maxime chaya, punta arenas, ilyushin 76, russian, pilot, flying, antarctica, maxim, max, chaaya, bank audi, audi saradar group, lebanese, lebanon, expedition, south pole, vinson, kiwi, beirut, evelyne binsack, adrian hayes, hans foss, devon mcdairmed, unsupported, sled, packing, food, 2007, 2008, chile, technical problem, extreme sports, mountaineer, ski
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"the plane is UP, but the weather DOWN" - Shaun. After an quick resolution to yesterday's technical problem, the plane is now ready to fly. Unfortunately, the weather has deteriorated, with winds kicking up a mess at Patriot Hills, meaning that we're
Tracked: Nov 08, 15:40