Glacier Country Helicopters: Franz Josef Glacier Flight
Difficulty
easy
Duration
25 minutes
Fitness Level
No significant physical fitness needed; suitable for most ages and abilities
Overview
Take to the skies above Franz Josef Glacier on a private 25-minute helicopter flight with Glacier Country Helicopters. Experience stunning alpine views and a rare snow landing for a truly unique perspective.
Adventure Tips
Confirm Passenger Weights Before Booking
Accurate passenger weights are essential for helicopter balance and safety—ensure you provide this information during booking to avoid flight rescheduling.
Wear Warm, Layered Clothing
Temperatures can be much colder on the glacier and during the snow landing; layering helps keep you comfortable throughout the flight.
Charge Your Camera Batteries
This flight offers unique photo opportunities; have your devices ready to capture glacier crevasses and sweeping mountain vistas.
Be Prepared for Weather-Related Changes
Due to the area’s changeable alpine weather, flights—and especially snow landings—may be canceled or modified at short notice.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kea parrots, known for their curious nature around alpine regions.
- New Zealand fantail, a small bird often seen flitting among the forest edges.
History
The Franz Josef Glacier carries significance in Māori culture and has been a popular mountaineering site since early European exploration in the late 19th century.
Conservation
Glacier Country Helicopters operates with attention to minimizing environmental impact, respecting the fragile alpine ecosystems and local wildlife habitats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Layered Clothing
Keeps you comfortable against cold alpine winds during flight and snow landing.
winter specific
Sunglasses
Protects your eyes from glare off ice and snow during flight and landing.
Camera or Smartphone with Extra Battery
Essential for capturing rare aerial and landing shots of the glacier and mountains.
Sturdy Shoes or Boots
Provides secure footing on snow or alpine terrain during the landing portion.