How long is the helicopter flight?

The flight lasts approximately 25 minutes in total, including a 10-minute snow landing on the glacier.

Is a professional photographer included?

A professional photographer is available upon request to capture your proposal moments for an additional fee.

How many people can join the proposal flight?

Flights typically accommodate up to three passengers; rates can be provided for groups of 4 to 6.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Since weather can be unpredictable, flights may be rescheduled or canceled for safety. Early communication helps with flexible planning.

What should we wear during the flight?

Guests should dress warmly in layers and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes to stay comfortable on the glacier snow landing.

Are there any health restrictions for passengers?

Passengers should disclose any medical conditions that could affect flying; motion sickness remedies are recommended if needed.

Glacier Proposal Flights with Glacier Country Helicopters | Airplane

Set against the rugged beauty of New Zealand’s West Coast, Glacier Country Helicopters offers an unparalleled way to mark life’s most memorable moments with their signature proposal flights over the Franz Josef Glacier. This isn’t just a helicopter tour—it’s a carefully crafted adventure designed to combine jaw-dropping natural scenery with an intimate, personal celebration. Departing from Franz Josef / Waiau, the flight path takes you soaring above ancient ice flows, crevassed glacier tongues, and dense temperate rainforest that carpets the valley floor.

The Franz Josef Glacier itself is a dynamic river of ice flowing down from the Southern Alps, shaped by unique climatic conditions that allow it to descend from high alpine terrain nearly to sea level. The sweeping aerial perspective transforms this geological landmark into a living mosaic of blue ice, snowfields, and rugged scree slopes. Your pilot expertly maneuvers for close-up views and photo-worthy moments, before settling onto a pristine snowfield for a ten-minute landing.

This snow landing is the heart of the experience: an extraordinary private setting where the proposal can unfold amid silence interrupted only by the sound of wind on ice. A chilled glass of bubbles awaits to toast the occasion, accompanied by the option to have a professional photographer capture the genuine, spontaneous reactions during this intimate moment. With a 100% success rate for proposals, Glacier Country Helicopters combines expert piloting, flawless timing, and an intensely personal service to make every flight extraordinary.

The company stands out in the outdoor adventure scene for its seamless blend of high-adrenaline flight and heartfelt celebration, connecting visitors to the striking wilderness of the West Coast while creating memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re looking to surprise your partner or celebrate your love against one of Earth’s most dramatic backdrops, this experience delivers both awe and authenticity unlike any other in the region.