The U.S. Embassy has publicly thanked the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) for a recent medical evacuation mission from McMurdo Station in Antarctica. The operation took place overnight and involved what officials described as extreme conditions.
Chargé d’Affaires Melissa Sweeney of the U.S. Embassy said, “This mission wasn’t just difficult; it was one of the most technically demanding operations an aircrew can face. In extreme conditions, with little margin for error, the RNZAF executed this mid-winter Antarctic medevac flawlessly.”
According to the embassy, this mission brought hope during a challenging period at McMurdo Station. Sweeney stated, “We are so very grateful. Our Kiwi partners didn’t hesitate to undertake this mission in one of the most unforgiving environments on Earth. Their skill and readiness are truly world-class.”
The RNZAF has previously carried out similar rescue missions in 2021 and 2024.
Sweeney added, “Only the best crews can pull off something like this and the RNZAF proved, again, that they’re among the very best. This isn’t luck, its professionalism, planning, and a level of capability that few can match.”
She also explained that landing a large aircraft under these circumstances required flying at night using night vision goggles while facing freezing temperatures and ice-covered runways.
“This required absolute precision. It was daring, dangerous, and deeply courageous. This is the kind of mission that tests every ounce of skill and bravery. RNZAF delivered, just as they always do,” Sweeney said.