What is included in the 35-minute helicopter flight?

The flight covers two glaciers—Franz Josef and Fox—and includes a 10-minute snow landing on a remote glacier plateau.

Is this tour safe for children?

Children are welcome but must meet minimum age and size restrictions set by the operator for safety reasons.

What should I wear on the flight?

Warm layers and sturdy shoes are recommended due to cold temperatures and the snow landing experience.

Can I bring a backpack or camera gear?

Yes, but ensure your equipment is secured as space is limited and weight restrictions apply.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Flights may be rescheduled or refunded if weather conditions prevent safe operation.

Where is the departure point?

The tour departs from 10 Main Road, Franz Josef / Waiau, West Coast, New Zealand.

Soar Over Glacier Country: Helicopter Adventure with Snow Landing in Franz Josef

Carving through the crisp alpine air above New Zealand’s West Coast, the Pilots Choice 35-minute helicopter tour offers a rare vantage point on the storied glaciers of Franz Josef and Waiau. This flight is a gateway to some of the most compelling glacial landscapes on the planet, framed by rugged peaks and crowned by vast ice formations that seem untouched by time. Taking off from 10 Main Road in Franz Josef, your journey unfolds over a terrain marked by steely blue ice fields, deep crevasses, and snow-capped ridges that contrast sharply with the dense greenery of the surrounding native forest.

The flight path is a showcase of geological grandeur. Soar past Franz Josef Glacier itself, a tidewater glacier known for its stunning accessibility and dramatic retreat history. Nearby, the Fox Glacier looms—longer and steeper, it adds a striking dimension to the region’s icy display. This tour’s highlight is the 10-minute snow landing, a rare occasion to touch down in remote snowfields far beyond the reach of ground hikers. Standing on the snow, surrounded by the silence of the wilderness and panoramic vistas, offers an experience few places on Earth can rival.

Glacier Country Helicopters is more than a tour operator; it is a vital part of the West Coast adventure scene. Their pilots bring detailed local knowledge and a steadfast safety record, enhancing every flight with stories about the land’s volcanic origins and the dynamic nature of glaciers influenced by climate change. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their practices, minimizing environmental impact while maximizing visitor appreciation for this fragile landscape.

For travelers considering this adventure, nearby Franz Josef Village offers convenient lodging and eateries, making it easy to combine the helicopter flight with glacier hiking, rainforest walks, or hot pools relaxation. The area’s temperate rainforest climate means weather can be changeable, but every sunny patch reveals landscapes spectacular enough to reward any wait.

Whether you’re an avid photographer aiming to capture ice formations from above, an outdoor enthusiast eager for an aerial adrenaline fix, or simply seeking a memorable introduction to New Zealand’s wild southern Alps, this 35-minute flight offers an unparalleled experience. Glide over molten rock scars and ancient ice, land on pristine snow, and leave with a fresh perspective on one of the world’s great natural wonders.