Repost: VU4AX – Andaman Islands DXpedition Update

At 11:00z on March 12, 2025, our VU4AX team is celebrating nearly 10K QSOs in the log—a remarkable achievement amid a whirlwind of challenges and last‑minute hurdles. Here’s a rundown of our recent journey and current operations:

Travel & Logistical Challenges

• Visa & Luggage Fiasco:
  Our expedition started in Kortrijk, Belgium, with smooth travel until check‑in in Paris revealed a visa issue with Marc ON4AMX. Meanwhile, our meticulously organized 47 suitcases and 7 oversized pieces encountered a system crash, followed by a surprising extra charge for already paid luggage. After intensive negotiations with Air India, we rebooked our flights and finally departed New Delhi with all our baggage.

• Customs & Flight Changes:
  Upon arrival in New Delhi at 8:15 AM local time, our luggage faced further hurdles at customs. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Air India staff, all items were cleared and re‐ticketed on a direct flight to the Andaman Islands.

Regulatory & Administrative Updates

• Calls Sign Reissuance:
  In response to significant legislative changes in India, we had to reapply for our license—resulting in the new callsign VU4AX (instead of VU4X). Despite our efforts to reclaim the original, key officials were tied up with parliamentary elections, so we had to move forward.

• Branding & Preparations:
  Amid these challenges, we’ve been busy updating our website, ordering polo shirts, flags, and banners to reflect our new identity—all while ensuring our equipment and logistics remain intact.

On-Air Operations & Performance

• Current QSO Status:
  As of today, we’ve logged close to 10K QSOs with a good mix of CW, SSB, and FT8—even though occasional power cuts and poor propagation are affecting some bands. Our focus remains on making strong contacts with Europe and North America.

• Antenna & Technical Updates:

  • We’re testing new low-band RX antennas to combat noise and improve signal quality.
  • Pictures from team member Franky (ON7RU) show our operational setup, including our Spiderbeam and antenna assemblies.
  • We continue to push through on 20m SSB and 40m CW, with recordings available for those interested.

Looking Ahead

• Daily Schedule:
  The coming days will see targeted sessions on specific bands to maximize QSOs before our scheduled departure. Our livestream log is up and running (check our website for live updates).

• Gratitude & Future Plans:
  We extend our deepest thanks to our sponsors, donors, and especially to Catherine Bernard, Lenka Farre, and Patricia Thiry at Air India Paris, whose tireless support—symbolized by a box of Belgian chocolates—helped us overcome our baggage crisis.

• Mission Completion:
  Despite the stress and setbacks, we’re now on our way to dry land and ready to complete our mission. Stay tuned for further log updates and QSL processing once we’re safely back on the mainland.