Franz Josef: Scenic Glacier Flight with Snow Landing

About This Experience

This 25-minute flight from Franz Josef takes you up over the glacier and lands on the snow when the weather and the pilot allow. The Helicopter Line West Coast runs it, and it costs from $223 per person. It has a 4.9 from 7 GetYourGuide reviews, few reviews so far. You meet your pilot and group at the operator's office in Franz Josef township. The 25 minutes cover the whole trip, landing included, and groups are limited to 12 people.

After a short introduction you board the helicopter and climb out of the valley, with the township giving way to rainforest and then the Southern Alps. The pilot points out the mountains and ice formations as you fly up Franz Josef Glacier. The helicopter then touches down on the snow so you can step out, walk a little and take photos with the mountains behind you. The pilot picks the landing site on the day before flying you back to base.

This is one of the shorter flights at Franz Josef, and it suits you if you want a snow landing in a small part of your day. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult. Kids under 4 who weigh under 15 kg ride on an adult's knee, and heavier children need their own seat. You give every passenger's weight when you book, so the operator can balance the aircraft. The listing marks it wheelchair accessible, so ask the operator about your own needs.

There are no low-star review themes yet, but with seven reviews the rating can move. Weather is the main risk: if conditions stop the flight at the booked location, you can reschedule or take a full refund. The operator can also move your date or time, and then you can choose a full refund or another departure. Book early in your stay, keep a spare day, and remember you can cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund.

Highlights

• Fly up Franz Josef Glacier with the Southern Alps ahead
• Watch the township give way to rainforest and then ice
• Step out onto the snow when the pilot lands, weather permitting
• Take photos on the snow with the mountains behind you
• Fly in a group of no more than 12

What's Included

• ✓ Scenic helicopter flight over Franz Josef Glacier
• ✓ 25-minute trip including a snow landing (weather permitting)
• ✓ Pilot commentary and information
• ✓ Photo stops during the landing
• ✓ Short introduction at the operator's office before boarding

Not Included

• Food and drink
• Hotel pick-up and transfers

What to Bring

• Warm clothing
• Camera
• Closed-toe shoes

Good to Know & Caveats

• Give all passengers' weights when you book, for the aircraft's weight and balance
• Children must be accompanied by a paying adult; under-4s under 15 kg sit on an adult's knee, heavier children need their own seat
• If weather prevents the flight, you can reschedule or take a full refund
• Minimum passenger numbers apply; if they are not met you can move to another departure or take a full refund
• Drones, selfie sticks and tablets are not allowed

Meeting Point

Check in at The Helicopter Line's office in Franz Josef township; the exact address is on your voucher.