Take to the skies above New Zealand’s West Coast to witness Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers from a helicopter. This 30-minute flight includes a snow landing and expert pilot commentary, providing an unforgettable alpine perspective.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
30 minutes
Fitness Level
Minimal physical fitness required; participants must be able to board and disembark the helicopter safely
Wildlife
History
Franz Josef Glacier is one of the few glaciers in the world that descends from the Southern Alps into temperate rainforest. Its Maori name is Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere, meaning 'The tears of Hine Hukatere,' tied to local legend.
Conservation
Flight operators contribute to conservation efforts through concession fees, helping to manage the delicate glacier environment amid increasing tourism.
The Helicopter Line & Glacier Helicopters West Coast
Take to the skies above New Zealand’s West Coast to witness Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers from a helicopter. This 30-minute flight includes a snow landing and expert pilot commentary, providing an unforgettable alpine perspective.
The Helicopter Line & Glacier Helicopters West Coast operate helicopter scenic flights from Franz Josef on New Zealand’s West Coast. They provide a range of glacier experiences that combine aerial sightseeing with alpine snow landings, showcasing the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, Aoraki / Mount Cook and the Tasman Glacier. Flights typically depart from Franz Josef Village and include guided commentary from pilots and hosts familiar with the region.
Available trips include varied durations and routes such as 20‑, 30‑ and 40‑minute scenic flights, twin glacier flyovers, and dedicated discoverer and recce options. Each flight description highlights glacier landings on snowfields, panoramic views of the Southern Alps, and close approaches to ice formations and glacial valleys. These experiences focus on safe viewing opportunities and photographic vantage points accessible only by helicopter.
The business lists specific trips like Fox Glacier 20, 30 and 40 minute scenic flights, Franz Josef Twin Glacier, Franz Josef Mountain Scenic Spectacular, Franz Josef Névé Discoverer and Franz Josef Glacier Recce. Passengers can expect to see major landmarks such as Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier, Aoraki / Mount Cook and the Tasman Glacier during flights that are designed for sightseeing and alpine landings.
Bookings and operational details are managed locally in Franz Josef. The company’s offerings are centered on helicopter access to glacier environments on New Zealand’s West Coast, delivering direct aerial routes, snow landings and interpretive commentary about the glacial landscape. Flight availability and exact routes vary with weather and seasonal conditions; pilots adjust plans accordingly.
Location
Franz Josef, West Coast
Base of glacier flights
Tours Offered
9 tours
Range of scenic glacier flights
Landing Type
Snow landings
Alpine glacier snowfield landings
Durations
20–40 minutes
Short scenic flight options
Choose a 20, 30 or 40 minute scenic flight or a twin glacier landing and secure a memorable West Coast experience.
Dress in Warm, Layered Clothing
Temperatures on the glacier snowfields can be much colder than in town; bring a warm jacket and layers.
Secure Your Camera Gear
Use wrist or neck straps to secure cameras due to helicopter vibrations and wind.
Timing Matters—Book Early in Your Trip
Weather can change rapidly; scheduling your flight early provides flexibility for rescheduling.
Wear Sturdy, Closed-Toe Shoes
Landing on snowfields requires solid footing; sandals or flip-flops are unsuitable.
Warm Jacket
Keeps you comfortable during colder conditions on the glacier and in the air.
fall|winter|spring
Sturdy Closed-Toe Shoes
Necessary for safe footing during snow landings and boarding.
Sunglasses
Protects eyes from strong alpine sunlight and glare off the snow.
summer|spring|fall
Camera with Strap
Capture sharp images without risk of dropping your gear during flight.