Rex Group today announced they will pursue a fixed-wing Antarctic contract in partnership with Canadian ice firm Enterprise Aviation Group (EAG).
The announcement comes only three weeks after Rex revealed an alliance with Helicopter Resources to challenge for the Australian Antarctic Division's (AAD) rotary contract.
AAD's contract is expected to call for provision of four twin-turbine fixed-wing aircraft capable of landing on both wheels and skis, which Ontario-based EAG will service with DC-3T Basler and DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft.
“This collaboration highlights Rex’s dedication to assembling the best possible team of complementary capabilities to meet the AAD’s requirements," said Rex Antarctic Project Manager Craig Martin.
"Enterprise brings unparalleled contemporary knowledge and operational expertise to the table. As we work to identify and bring the next generation of intracontinental fixed-wing turboprop aircraft into service for the AAD, Enterprise’s deep experience will ensure delivery of a safe, effective and efficient enhancement to the AAD’s intracontinental fixed-wing turboprop aircraft capabilities.”
EAG services several international Antarctic programs and first worked with the AAD in 2001, transporting essential supplies, equipment and personnel to remote Antarctic locations. The company boasts an exceptional track record in the polar regions, with over 27,000 accident-free hours in the past decade.
“We are honoured to join forces with Rex in this exclusive sub-contract agreement for the upcoming Antarctic RFT," said Enterprise Aviation Group’s Director and Chief Pilot, Brian Burchartz.
"Our long-term experience operating in Antarctica, which includes many firsts, coupled with our contemporary Antarctic operations of the Twin Otter and Basler aircraft conducting both tourism support activities and scientific mission support for numerous government agencies, positions us well in our combined effort to providing the best solution for enhancing the current intracontinental fixed-wing turbo-prop component of the AAD capabilities.”
The DC-3T (BT-67) Basler is a Douglas DC-3 airframe retro-fitted with two Pratt & Whitney PT-6 turbines, replacing the original R1830 Twin Wasp piston radial engines.