Union Glacier Blue-Ice Runway Airport (IATA: UGL, ICAO: SCGC) serves Union Glacier, AQ.
The Union Glacier Blue-Ice Runway (SCGC (UGL)) is a unique public aerodrome located in the Heritage Range of the Ellsworth Mountains in Antarctica. While publicly owned, it is maintained and operated by Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions LLC (ALE), a private company specializing in Antarctic expedition support and tours.
The runway, designated 18/36, is 3,000 meters (9,842 ft) long and 50 meters (164 ft) wide, with a natural blue ice surface capable of accommodating heavy intercontinental wheeled aircraft. Its location at approximately 79°46′40″S 83°19′15″W, at an elevation of 2,461 ft (750 m), makes it a critical access point to the interior of Antarctica.
The facility serves as the primary aviation gateway for Union Glacier Camp, supporting a range of activities including scientific research, mountaineering expeditions (notably for Mount Vinson), and the annual Antarctic Ice Marathon. Historically, it replaced the Patriot Hills Base Camp as the main entry point for private Antarctic travel in 2010, offering more reliable flight conditions. The runway was certified by the Chilean Directorate General of Civil Aviation in December 2008.
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Where is Union Glacier Blue-Ice Runway Airport located?
Union Glacier Blue-Ice Runway is located in Union Glacier, AQ, at an elevation of 2461 ft. Its IATA code is UGL and ICAO code is SCGC.