Petrel Base | Antarctica’s New Air Gateway on Dundee Island

On Dundee Island at the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, Petrel Base (also known as Petrel Airbase) has reemerged as a key hub for Argentina’s Antarctic presence. Initially built in the 1960s, this remote station now combines scientific research with a newly upgraded airstrip — one of the few in Antarctica capable of supporting regular flights. With a planned year-round air link to Ushuaia, Petrel Base is set to play an important role in connecting South America to the Antarctic Peninsula.

Where the name ‘Petrel’ comes from

Petrel Base takes its name from Petrel Cove — the only ice-free stretch of coast on the island — where southern giant petrels and other seabirds are a common sight. The cove was likely named by early Argentine expeditions in the 1950s after these birds, which nest and forage in the area.

While most Antarctic place names honour explorers, ships, or even sled dogs, Petrel Base reflects Argentina’s occasional practice of naming geographic features after prominent local wildlife — in this case, the southern giant petrel — as a nod to the environment they inhabit.

The history and renewal of Petrel Base 

Cape Welchness on Dundee Island was selected in late 1940 for Argentine aeronautical infrastructure due to its rare sea-level plain and natural wind shelter, though winter ice conditions often block access.

The Petrel Naval Refuge was built at Petrel Cove in 1950/51 with a small airstrip and permanent crew. During 1966/67, the Argentine Navy constructed a firm runway (850m x 40m) and added accommodation, a metal hangar, workshop, and communication equipment—a demanding task given the remote location and harsh conditions.

Named the "Petrel Naval Detachment" in December 1966, the base conducted surveys and salvage operations. Notable events included a 1971 rescue mission to evacuate a sick person from British base Fossil Bluff, and a 1974 fire that forced staff evacuation. By 1978, it operated only as a summer base.

Reactivation plans emerged in the 2000s as part of the Argentine Antarctic Program. Technical plans were developed in 2013, and the base was redeclared permanent in November 2022.

The best time to see the area around Petrel Base

The best time for exploring the area is during the austral summer, between December and early March. Between the late austral summer and early autumn periods, sea ice presence is minimal. Sea conditions are not favourable for cruise ships for the rest of the year. 

In December and January, the maximum temperatures can be surprisingly mild, around 1°C. With the area being bathed by almost 24 hours of daylight in these months, navigation also becomes easier.

Petrel Base and Antarctic geopolitics

As more countries plan to explore the natural resources of Antarctica and make use of the Peninsula’s strategic position, the geopolitical dynamics in the white continent are likely to get more complex. The two South American countries with territorial claims in Antarctica are Argentina and Chile. Apart from these two countries, the United Kingdom also has territorial claims in the Antarctic Peninsula.

It is not without a strategic reason that the Petrel Base has been renovated by Argentina. Since both Argentina and Chile are considered ‘bridge countries’ to the Antarctic Peninsula, competition exists between the cities of Punta Arenas and Ushuaia. Argentina aims to establish Ushuaia as a gateway to the polar continent and also as a prime logistical and economic hub. So, the Petrel Base is set to play an important role as a geostrategic spot in the coming years.

Looking ahead

Petrel Base is being developed to play a bigger role in Antarctic logistics, research, and potentially even commercial operations. As the facilities evolve and the air bridge progresses toward readiness for visitors, we’ll keep you updated on any new milestones. If and when Petrel Base becomes part of our itineraries, we’ll share the details — so you can be among the first to experience this unique gateway to Antarctica.