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๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡จ Ecuador /Environment & Climate

Ecuadorian Science Reaches Antarctica with Latam Support

From El Comercio · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Ecuador is sending scientists and personnel to Antarctica for its 29th expedition, focusing on climate change, biodiversity, and ocean dynamics.
  • LATAM Airlines is providing air transport from Ecuador to Punta Arenas, Chile, a key hub for reaching the Antarctic continent.
  • The expedition marks 35 years of Ecuador's scientific presence in Antarctica and its status as a Consultative Member of the Antarctic Treaty.

Ecuadorian scientists are embarking on their 29th Antarctic expedition, a mission crucial for studying climate change, biodiversity, and ocean dynamics in one of the planet's most sensitive regions. The expedition, spanning 2025-2026, involves scientists, technicians, and logistical staff.

LATAM Airlines plays a vital role in this endeavor, providing air connectivity for the Ecuadorian personnel. Flights transport the team to Punta Arenas, Chile, which serves as a strategic gateway to the white continent. This logistical support is essential for the mission's success, requiring extensive coordination across transport, logistics, and research operations in challenging geographical conditions.

The expedition operates from Ecuador's Pedro Vicente Maldonado Scientific Station (PEVIMA) on Greenwich Island during the austral summer. Here, researchers conduct investigations, environmental monitoring, and maintain the scientific infrastructure. This sustained presence allows Ecuador to actively contribute to global environmental understanding and reinforce its position as a Consultative Member of the Antarctic Treaty.

This year's expedition holds special significance, commemorating 35 years since the inauguration of the PEVIMA station and Ecuador's attainment of Consultative Member status in the Antarctic Treaty. The ongoing scientific missions underscore Ecuador's commitment to Antarctic research and its active participation in the governance and conservation of the region.

For LATAM, it is an honor to provide the connectivity that makes these types of missions possible.

โ€” Emilia RivadeneiraLATAM Ecuador's Corporate Affairs Manager, highlighting the airline's contribution to transporting the expedition members and advancing science.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by El Comercio in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.