FRANZ JOSEF / WAIAU AIRPLANE FIELD GUIDE
Glaciers from Above: A Snow-Landed Flight Over Franz Josef, Fox and Aoraki/Mount Cook
A 40-minute scenic helicopter flight from Franz Josef offering aerial views of Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier, the Tasman Glacier and Aoraki/Mount Cook, including a landing on snow-covered glacier ice.
Glaciers from Above: A Snow-Landed Flight Over Franz Josef, Fox and Aoraki/Mount Cook.
On the West Coast at Franz Josef / Waiau you climb into a helicopter and trade forest and moraine for the sculpted whites and cobalt crevasses of the Southern Alps. The Franz Josef Mountain Scenic Spectacular puts Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier and the lofty profile of Aoraki / Mount Cook into a single flight, with sweeping views across the Tasman Glacier and a dramatic landing on ancient snow.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
See Franz Josef, Fox and Aoraki / Mount Cook in one flight
This scenic route is designed to showcase New Zealand’s three most spectacular glaciers and the towering Aoraki / Mount Cook from the air, giving an uninterrupted sense of scale and alpine drama.
Tasman Glacier and vast ice formations
Along the eastern flank of the Southern Alps you’ll take in views of the Tasman Glacier — Aotearoa New Zealand’s longest glacier — and the towering ice formations that define these valleys.
Snow landing on ancient glacier ice
The flight includes a landing on the snow plains of a glacier so you can step onto pristine ice and appreciate the textures and scale of the glacial surface up close.
What the day feels like
What it feels like
In roughly forty minutes the flight compresses the West Coast’s greatest spectacles into a single arc: you lift out of the Franz Josef valley, sweep over glaciers and alpine ridges, pass vistas of Aoraki / Mount Cook, and touch down on a snowfield for a brief, unforgettable stretch of time on the ice.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this flight suits
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Allow around 40 minutes for the scenic flight. Meeting point: Main South Road, Franz Josef.
Warm clothing (including a jacket), comfortable sturdy shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen, and a phone or camera (large cameras should be on a strap).
Do not bring bags, selfie sticks, iPads, loose scarves or any dangerous goods aboard the aircraft.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the scenic flight?
Allow 40 Minutes for the Franz Josef Mountain Scenic Spectacular.
Where do I meet for the flight?
The meeting location is on Main South Road, Franz Josef.
What should I bring on the flight?
Bring warm clothing including a jacket, comfortable and sturdy shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen, and a phone or camera (ensure large cameras are secured on a strap).
Are any items not permitted on the aircraft?
Yes. Bags, selfie sticks, iPads, loose clothing such as scarves and any dangerous goods are not permitted aboard the aircraft.
Is this flight suitable for children and older travelers?
Yes — the offering is described as suitable for all ages.