No US airlines operate flights to Antarctica despite ongoing research presence

Flight corridors across other oceans are more popular due to the availability of multiple diversion airports along those routes. In contrast, there are very few trans-oceanic flights connecting South America, Australia, and Africa that would make passing over Antarctica practical or necessary.

US carriers do not operate flights solely between Southern Hemisphere airports; their networks primarily connect destinations to and from the United States rather than east-west routes in southern latitudes. Additionally, transport for US research personnel is handled by military aircraft operated by the US Air Force rather than commercial airlines. Christchurch Airport in New Zealand serves as a key base for these operations, with about 100 direct flights annually carrying approximately 5,500 passengers and 1,400 tonnes of cargo between New Zealand and Antarctica since "Operation Deep Freeze" began in 1955 (https://www.christchurchairport.co.nz/en/about-us/our-community-and-environment/the-antarctic-connection/).

Williams Field is one primary airfield supporting US operations on the continent. It features two snow runways suitable only for ski-equipped aircraft and basic facilities for workers. The field sits about seven miles from Ross Island and provides access for both McMurdo Station and New Zealand's Scott Base.

Phoenix Airfield was opened in 2017 as a replacement for Pegasus Field after runway conditions deteriorated due to melting ice during summer seasons. Phoenix Airfield accommodates around 60 wheeled aircraft movements per year and supports both research activities and logistical needs.

European airlines have recently made notable entries into Antarctic aviation: Norse Atlantic Airways became the first carrier to land a Boeing 787 at Troll Airfield near Norway’s research station after departing Oslo via Cape Town; HiFly has used its Airbus A340-300s for three consecutive years on tourist charters from Cape Town International Airport directly to Wolf Fang Runway—a blue ice runway capable of handling larger jets—operated by British tour company White Desert.

Qantas also operates scenic charter flights from Australia that fly over but do not land on Antarctica during periods when daylight lasts all day.

It remains uncertain whether US carriers will ever launch services to Antarctica. Most current traffic relies on special charters or military-operated missions from Christchurch using aircraft designed or modified for polar conditions. If future demand arises—such as requests from tour operators—and if suitable aircraft become available, it is possible that American airlines could consider charter operations utilizing infrastructure like Wolf Fang Runway in Queen Maud Land (https://white-desert.com/wolf-fang-runway/).

Blue ice runways like Wolf Fang allow safe deceleration using reverse thrust instead of wheel brakes because of their low friction surface; this design feature makes them viable options for large passenger jets bringing tourists or supplies onto the continent.