Is the flight safe for kids and elderly travelers?

Yes, the flight is suitable for all ages, including children and seniors, with no strenuous activity required.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Flights are subject to weather conditions; if canceled, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

Can I bring large cameras or selfie sticks?

Large cameras must be secured with straps; selfie sticks and iPads are not permitted onboard.

How long is the entire experience?

The helicopter flight is about 40 minutes, but please allow up to 1 hour for check-in and briefing.

Where does the trip depart from?

The Helicopter Line base on State Highway 6 in Franz Josef / Waiau is the departure point.

Do I need prior helicopter flying experience?

No experience is required; all necessary safety briefings are provided before takeoff.

Franz Josef Mountain Scenic Spectacular: Helicopter Glacier Flight with Snow Landing

Located on New Zealand's rugged West Coast, the Franz Josef Mountain Scenic Spectacular offers an unparalleled aerial adventure above some of the most dramatic glaciers of the Southern Alps. This 40-minute helicopter flight takes you soaring over the ancient, blue-tinged ice fields of Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier, two of the world's most accessible glaciers, framed by towering peaks and dense temperate rainforest. But this isn’t just a sightseeing trip — it culminates in a thrilling snow landing atop one of these massive glaciers, letting you step out onto ice that has shaped the landscape for millennia.

Taking off from The Helicopter Line’s base along State Highway 6 in Franz Josef / Waiau, the flight is guided by expert pilots who provide insightful commentary about the stunning geological formations below. One of the highlights is a sweeping view of Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, a formidable glaciated summit standing sentinel beyond the glaciers. The tour also flies over the Tasman Glacier, the country's longest glacier, revealing the scale and dynamic forces that continually shape this remote environment.

What makes this adventure exceptional is the combination of intimate glacier access and panoramic alpine vistas only available from the air. The contrast of icy blue crevasses against ancient moraine terrain, paired with the lush green forests that carpet the lower valleys, creates a visual spectacle that captures New Zealand’s diverse wilderness in a single flight.

This experience is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it a memorable activity whether you’re a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or a casual traveler. The helicopter’s snow landing enables you to touch the glacier’s pristine surface, a rare opportunity to connect with this pristine environment safely and comfortably. Since weather on the West Coast can be changeable, flights run subject to conditions, with flexible rebooking options to ensure guests get the best possible experience.

Franz Josef Glacier is not just a geological treasure but a vital part of the local conservation conversation, where sustainable tourism helps protect fragile alpine ecosystems. Booking early in your visit is recommended, as these flights fill quickly during peak seasons and offer a unique perspective not to be missed.

From capturing epic photos of icy peaks to feeling the crunch of snow beneath your boots, the Franz Josef Mountain Scenic Spectacular stands out as a must-do adventure that magnifies the grandeur of New Zealand’s glacier country.