A United States Airforce (USAF) C-130 Hercules aircraft departed McMurdo station at 12.35pm today (NZDT) with the 7 injured crew on board. Three of the men are seriously injured.

• The aircraft’s ETA in Christchurch is 8.45pm this evening (NZDT).

• The injured crew will be taken to Christchurch hospital on arrival for assessment and further treatment as required.

• Note that photos and video are not available. The USAF advise there will be no media access or interviews when the aircraft lands in Christchurch.

• RCCNZ’s role in the incident will come to an end once the aircraft lands in Christchurch