Media Releases

24 December 2009 - Airservices predicts bumpy ride for Santa - 51/09

Airservices Australia’s National Operations Centre predicts a bumpy ride for Santa on Christmas Eve with strong winds across the continent from the remnants of Cyclone Laurence and rain and showers in other parts of the country.

National Operations Centre Manager, Jennifer Birdsall, said Bureau of Meteorology weather experts attached to the Centre have been keeping a close eye on weather systems along Santa’s route and would do their best to divert him around the worst of them.

“Our specialist controllers, who provide airlines with the most fuel-efficient routes to Australia taking into account jet streams, adverse weather conditions and even volcanic activity, will do the same for Santa,” Ms Birdsall said.

“We have some concerns about a volcano in The Philippines which authorities say could erupt at any time so we will make sure Santa is kept well clear of any danger there.

“Our routes, known as Flex-Tracks, are issued each day to long-haul international aircraft and are of enormous benefit to airlines. Annual fuel savings alone are worth over $5million while we are also reducing CO₂ emissions by as much as 7800 tonnes.

“The best long-haul performance to date for a single flight has saved 8.4 tonnes of fuel, 48 tonnes of CO₂ emissions and reduced flying time by 43 minutes.

“We will be able to route Santa’s sleigh around the worst of the weather so as not to tire out the reindeer – in fact, it’s likely he will be able to pick up some fast-moving high-altitude jet streams which will put him well ahead of schedule.

“If that’s the case it would be a good idea for children to be in bed asleep really early as it is well-known that Santa doesn’t call at houses where children are still up,” Ms Birdsall cautioned.

The latest information on Santa’s flight can be found on Airservices Australia’s special Santa website.

For media enquiries or interviews please call
Ph: +61 2 6257 2828 or
Email: media@airservicesaustralia.com

Airservices Australia is a Government owned organisation responsible for the safe and efficient management of air traffic across 11 per cent of the world's air space. Services include air traffic control, airspace management, aeronautical information, radar communications, radio navigation aids, aviation maintenance and engineering, environmental management and aviation rescue and firefighting. Airservices website: www.airservicesaustralia.com