FRANZ JOSEF / WAIAU AIRPLANE FIELD GUIDE
Snow Landing Above Fox and Franz Josef: A 20‑Minute Glacier Flight
A 20‑minute scenic flight that lands on either Fox or Franz Josef Glacier; this guide explains what to expect and what to bring for the short alpine experience.
Snow Landing Above Fox and Franz Josef: A 20‑Minute Glacier Flight.
Take to the air from Franz Josef / Waiau for a brisk, high-altitude survey of one of New Zealand’s dynamic West Coast ice systems. Over a compact flight you’ll sweep between coastal peaks and glacial tongues, watching ever‑changing ice formations and rugged terrain until your pilot chooses a safe snow landing on the glacial plains.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Icefields and Coastal Peaks
See the meeting of mountain and ocean as you fly over the West Coast: sweeping ice formations, serrated ridgelines and the broad snowy plains of Fox or Franz Josef Glacier.
A Snow Landing Chosen on the Day
Your pilot selects the best spot for a snow landing on the day of the flight — the exact location depends on weather patterns and the glacier’s daily movement.
Glacial Plains from Above
From the air you’ll take in staggering crevasses, flowing ice and the stark contrast of white glacier against rugged South Island terrain.
What the day feels like
What the Flight Feels Like
The experience is compact and panoramic: a rapid climb out, wide aerial views of glacier and coastline, then a controlled descent for a short snow landing on the glacial plain. Expect crisp mountain air and close-up views of ice that is continually on the move.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this short scenic flight suits
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Warm clothing (jacket), comfortable sturdy shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen, phone and camera (large cameras should be on a strap).
Bags, selfie sticks and iPads are not permitted on the aircraft. Avoid loose clothing and scarves; dangerous goods are prohibited.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the scenic flight?
The flight duration is 20 minutes.
Where is the meeting point?
Meet at Main South Road, Franz Josef.
Will we land on the glacier?
Yes — you will land on one of the glaciers; the pilot will choose the most suitable snow landing site on the day based on weather and glacier movement.
What should I bring on the flight?
Bring warm clothing (a jacket), comfortable and sturdy shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen, and a phone or camera (large cameras should be on a strap).
Are any items not permitted on board?
Yes — bags, selfie sticks and iPads are not permitted; loose clothing and scarves and dangerous goods should be left behind.