The ASMA Management Plan includes a Code of Conduct, which provides information on:
- Access to and movement within the area (by aircraft (including overflight and use of the skiway), overland vehicle traverses, helicopter, on foot or by ski), including a requirement for tour operators and non-governmental visitors to provide visitation schedules in advance, and for station access
- Aircraft landing regulations for National Programs and other expeditions
- Activities that may be conducted within the area
- Installation of new structures, or modification or removal of existing structures
- Location of field camps
- Restrictions on materials or organisms that may be brought into the area, and collection or removal of material found in the area
- Waste management, including requirements for National Programs and other expeditions
- Requirements for National Programs to provide a record of visits to the area.
Access to the South Pole
Special conditions apply for access to the South Pole, particularly by air. Runway use is by prior permission only and is generally limited to fixed-wing ski-equipped aircraft (occasionally access may be made by helicopter). Specific flight restrictions apply over the Clean Air Sector within the Scientific Zone. There are important safety considerations to take into account when visiting the Pole, and for this reason all visitors including National Programs and non-governmental expeditions should follow the provisions set out in the Code of Conduct in the Management Plan.
Those accessing the South Pole overland also need to be aware of the specific logistic, scientific and safety restrictions that apply, which are specified in the Management Plan and Maps.