Take a 35-minute helicopter loop over Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers with a snow landing on the ice. This quick but dramatic flight pairs aerial perspective with a short on-ice stop—ideal for travelers who want maximum glacier impact in minimal time.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You lift off from the West Coast airstrip and the rainforest drops away beneath the rotors; the Southern Alps push up as a jagged spine, glaciers pouring down their valleys like slow blue rivers. From the cabin you’ll see Fox Glacier and Franz Josef as vast ice sheets threaded with crevasses, then cross toward the Tasman Glacier and the ragged slopes near Aoraki / Mount Cook.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
35 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic mobility to step on/off the skids and stand on packed snow for ~10 minutes.
Wildlife
History
These glaciers shaped local Māori travel routes and later European exploration; the Helicopter Line has operated scenic glacier flights for decades, opening remote ice to visitors.
Conservation
Glacier retreat is visible year-to-year—operators emphasize low-impact visits and stick to established landing protocols to minimize disturbance to fragile alpine environments.
Reserve your spot on the Fox Glacier: Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers
Temperatures on the glacier are much colder than the coast—wear an insulated jacket and windproof outer layer.
Check weight and booking details
Declare accurate passenger weights at booking and arrive early for the mandatory check-in and weather briefing.
Protect electronics from cold and snow
Bring spare batteries and a waterproof case—cold reduces battery life and snow reflects bright light.
Listen to the crew briefing
Follow crew instructions during boarding, landing and on-ice time for safety around rotors and crevasses.
Insulated jacket
Keeps you warm during the cold snow landing and when exposed to alpine winds.
Sturdy waterproof boots
Provides traction and warmth for standing on compacted snow and ice.
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare from bright snow and improves visibility during the landing.
Camera with spare batteries
Captures aerial views—batteries deplete faster in cold, so bring spares.