Over the weekend, passengers aboard the Qantas flight QF28, flying from Santiago, Chile to Sydney, Australia, were treated to an extraordinary sight, thanks to a course diversion over the icy continent of Antarctica. An unforeseen turn of events, often costing thousands of dollars, this Antarctic spectacle was a windfall for the passengers, without any additional charges on their ticket prices.
A deviation from the traditional flight path was prompted by headwinds en route. The pilots and the technical team of Australia’s national carrier decided that a more southerly path would prove economical and quicker, shared by FlightRadar24 on social media.
Qantas flight #QF28 is taking the scenic route over Antarctica today. Normally this flight is taking a much more northern route but because of winds this was the best option today.https://t.co/cGr0WyDRmM pic.twitter.com/FS8Ylu2GUS
— Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) July 14, 2023
The rerouted journey took the airliner well beyond its customary northern track, making a foray over the Antarctic. The specifics regarding the flight planning remain undisclosed, but the exciting diversion was well received by the lucky passengers on board.
For aviation enthusiasts and adventure seekers who weren’t as fortunate to experience this rare event, there’s still an opportunity to get a taste of this exhilarating journey. Many Australian travel agencies offer Antarctic air tours, especially during the summer months. Departing from several cities across Australia, these aerial excursions accommodate up to 218 passengers aboard a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, giving them a chance to get close to the South Pole without the need for passport control.
These unique Antarctic air expeditions are not just popular among Australians, but also draw people from around the world. Many even celebrate special occasions with such exotic tours, as reported by Australian agencies. Despite the novelty, this Antarctic flyover was a fortunate twist for Qantas passengers, giving them an experience to remember.
