25-minute Glacier Explorer Scenic Helicopter Flight Highlights
- Get up to $20 cash back per person when you book with us
- A 25-min scenic helicopter flight over the Southern Alps with a 10-min snow landing
- See the incredible peak of Mount Elie de Beaumont, the Southern Alps' northernmost mountain over 3000-metres tall
- Fly over Franz Josef Glaciers, one of the steepest glaciers in New Zealand
- Departs from the meeting point at 10 Main Road, Franz Josef/Waiau
What to Expect
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need to check in?
When do I need to check in?
Check-in is 30 minutes before departure. If your group is larger than ten, please allow 45 minutes.
The office is centrally located in town at 10 Main Road, Franz Josef. After you have checked in, a driver and van will take you to the private helipad just a few minutes down the road.
Where can I park my car during my flight?
Where can I park my car during my flight?
There is street parking in front of the office; additionally, there is a car park just across the road which is also suitable for camper vans.
Are we guaranteed a landing?
Are we guaranteed a landing?
Unfortunately, due to the ever-changing weather, The Operator can never 100% guarantee a landing. They aim to inform you at check-in if there is a chance you may be unable to land during the flight and discuss options available with you.
How many people fit in a helicopter?
How many people fit in a helicopter?
In the fleet, there are two different models of helicopters the MD 520N Notar, which can carry up to 4 passengers (plus an infant) and the Airbus Helicopter H125 (aka AS350 B2 Squirrel), which can carry up to 6 passengers (weight-dependent) plus the pilot.
Can I pick my own seat?
Can I pick my own seat?
The Operator is happy for you to request seats; however, they cannot guarantee these as they need to allocate seats according to specific weight and balance regulations. Seating arrangements will be assigned to you at the time of check-in.
Is there a minimum age to be able to ride a helicopter?
Is there a minimum age to be able to ride a helicopter?
There is no minimum age, but a paying adult must accompany each child or infant.
Do I need anything extra for infants?
Do I need anything extra for infants?
As infants and small children can't pressurize their ears like adults, so The Operator recommends bringing a dummy, bottle or something for them to suck during the last 2-3 minutes of the flight as we descend.
What should I bring / wear on my flight?
What should I bring / wear on my flight?
The Operator recommends you bring a warm jacket, sunglasses, sturdy footwear and your camera/phone for some fantastic photos.
What can't I bring on my flight?
What can't I bring on my flight?
For safety reasons, The Operator does not allow selfie sticks, drones, flammable liquids, lighters, open food or drink and any bags larger than a small handbag on any of the flights.
My mobility isn't very good, can I still come?
My mobility isn't very good, can I still come?
You do need to be able to get in and out of the helicopter, but The Operator will do their best to assist you with this. However, due to limited assistance being available on the landing sites, you may have to stay in the helicopter during the landing. If you have limited mobility, please let the Operator know at the time of booking.
I get motion sickness should I take something before my flight?
I get motion sickness should I take something before my flight?
If you suffer from motion sickness in cars or boats, The Operator would suggest taking your regular motion sickness medication or consulting your pharmacist before your flight. In the unlikely event that you are unwell, sick bags are carried in all the helicopters and vans.
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