The average flight duration is 12 hours (depending on your departure point). About three hours into the flight we usually see the first sea ice and icebergs. We spend approximately four hours over Antarctica and the remaining four hours traveling home.

There is a lot of activity on board, especially on the way to and from the continent. Antarctic experts who have lived on scientific research bases give talks on the environment and history, and will answer all of your questions. Video screenings and live radio link ups with the scientists on the research bases show what it is like to live on Antarctica. A cockpit mounted camera transmitting through the video systems on board gives you a pilot's eye view for the entire flight including take off and landing.

Departure and return times vary slightly depending on your chosen departure point and also if your flight is on New Years Eve. For further details, please visit our Flight Schedule.

Every passenger (excluding Economy Centre & Business Centre) is allocated two Boarding Passes. At the half way point of the flight, an announcement is made asking passengers to move to the seat listed on their second boarding pass. Business and First Class passengers will be seated in a window seat for half of the flight and in a next to window seat for the other half. Premium Economy, Economy Superior and Economy Standard passengers will have a window seat or the seat next to a window seat for half of the flight and an aisle seat for the other half of the flight. Economy Centre & Business Centre seats do not rotate. For a simple diagrammatic explanation please refer to the B747-400 seat plan or the A380 seat plan. It is important to note that while over Antarctica, most passengers get up from their seats and move about the aircraft, allowing everyone on board to enjoy excellent viewing opportunities. The aircraft flies in long sweeping 'figure 8s' over various points of interest to allow these spectacular sights to be viewed from both sides of the aircraft.

You may select a seating class but not a particular seat. Seats are allocated on the best available at time of reservation, however final seating allocation is done the evening before departure when final bookings are confirmed.

While the Economy Centre seats do not rotate, ample viewing can still be achieved by walking to any available window space or exit zone. There is a fantastic atmosphere of cooperation, with most passengers sharing the experience.

The viewing of Antarctica is out, not down from the aircraft, so excellent viewing can still be achieved from this section.

We have 19 different approved flight plans. Our Captain views the satellite cloud picture on the morning of the flight and selects the route with the best visibility on the day. We have offered excellent viewing on each of our 85 previous flights.

When over Antarctica we fly at approximately 10,000 feet above sea level, which brings us within 2000 feet of the highest ground. This altitude provides excellent viewing while still respecting the wildlife habitats at sea level.

We do not land on Antarctica, primarily for environmental reasons. Antarctica is as close to a pristine environment as there is on Earth. The activity of Antarctica Sightseeing Flights has been approved by all Antarctic Treaty nations. Most importantly, you cannot see the spectacular views available from the aircraft when you are on the ground.

As most Antarctic wildlife lives at sea level, 10,000 feet below the aircraft, we cannot see them in any detail. This altitude is required to protect the various species. To experience the wonders of Antarctic wildlife, you would need to join a cruise, which Croydon Travel can assist you with.

Absolutely! All cameras are welcome. All the photos you see on this web site have been taken straight out the window of the plane. We are always getting feedback from passengers who are delighted with their photographic results - and these are amateur photographers! We even provide a few fun onboard photographic opportunities where you can try on Antarctic clothing or hug a 'life size' penguin. The information pack you will receive after you book your flight contains photography hints and tips.

Even though this is classed as a domestic flight, we provide international standard service on our Qantas aircraft. Two full meal services, snacks over the ice, and complimentary bar service is provided.

You will not need a passport, as this is classified as a domestic flight. However you will be required to present government approved photo ID at check-in.

• If your flight is on a Boeing 747-700 you will be boarding at the domestic terminal.
• If your flight is on an Airbus A380 you will be boarding at the international terminal.

Please allow sufficient time to transit security dependant on which termail you will be departing from.

People of all ages are welcome on the flights, however we do ask you to consider the following.

• Children under 16 years of age must travel with an adult.
• If you are travelling alone, you should be able to move around the cabin unaided.
• Parents should remember that this is a very long day for younger children.

Travel insurance is recommended. Special premiums are available. Please enquire when booking.