After non-stop flying for over 15 hours, Captain Michel Gordillo is nearing the Mario Zucchelli Station on the shores of eastern Antarctica. He has been flying for 2200 miles at speeds between 90 and 135 knots battling headwinds, taking advantage of tailwinds, and flying at altitudes from 900′ to 11,000′. But after flying for over 2200 miles yet another hurdle awaits him – landing on the ice and snow runway of the Antarctic station.

While at Hobart, Michel equipped his RV-8 experimental aircraft with skis developed specially for this aircraft. They have yet to be tested on this aircraft in snow and ice. This will be the test!

At this time of the year, the sun does not set in this part of Antarctica. Michel will be landing in the daylight although it is 0400.

We will let you know as soon as Michel reports he is safely on the ice. Cross your fingers for Michel!