Franz Josef Mountain Scenic, 40 Minutes

Franz Josef: Mountain Scenic Spectacular 40-Min Helicopter Flight

★ 5.0 38 reviews

from $409.68 per person

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Duration: 40 minutes
Meeting point: Main South Road, Franz Josef
Cancellation: Free cancellation
Run by: The Helicopter Line

Overview

This 40-minute helicopter flight from Franz Josef takes in the glaciers and high country of the Southern Alps, with a snow landing of five to ten minutes included. The Helicopter Line, the operator running it, flies a maximum of six travellers per trip, with live commentary on board throughout the flight.

The route takes in views of Franz Josef Glacier, the Southern Alps, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu) and Fox Glacier. During the snow landing, travellers can get out, walk on the snow and take photos before the return leg. The flight starts and ends at The Helicopter Line base on Main South Road, SH6, Franz Josef / Waiau, with check-in closing half an hour before departure and a weather check at that same moment.

It suits most people who want the glaciers and Aoraki country from above without a full-day commitment. Wheelchair users can be accommodated, service animals are allowed, and infants sit on laps. Warm clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended, and moderate fitness helps for the snow landing.

From$409.68 per person

Duration40 minutes

Rating5.0 from 38 reviews

What's Included

Included

Scenic helicopter flight with snow landing (5 - 10 minutes)
Live commentary on board
Pilot guide
GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Not Included

Items of a personal nature

Run byThe Helicopter Line

Itinerary

Check in at Franz JosefArrive at The Helicopter Line base on Main South Road, SH6, Franz Josef / Waiau. Check-in closes 30 minutes before departure, and the weather call is made at check-in.
Franz Josef Glacier viewingThe flight passes over Franz Josef Glacier, with about 10 minutes of viewing time.
Southern Alps pass-byThe route continues past the Southern Alps on the way toward the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu) area.
Aoraki and Fox pass-bysThe flight then passes by Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu) and Fox Glacier, viewed from the air.
Snow landingThe flight includes a snow landing of 5 to 10 minutes, with time to get out on the snow.
Return to baseThe activity ends back at the same meeting point in Franz Josef / Waiau.

Snow Landing: Weather permitting

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points shape this flight more than most tours, starting with the weather and what to wear on the snow.

A helicopter crossing the rain-green Franz Josef valley toward the Main Divide, seen from a ridge.

Weather calls. Weather in this region changes fast, and the operator makes the weather call at check-in, 30 minutes before departure. Several reviewers described flights delayed, shortened or rescheduled because of clouds or storms, and most said the wait was worth it. Build flexibility into your plans for the day.
Warm layers. Warm clothing and suitable footwear are recommended because of cold temperatures, especially for the snow landing. Since you get out on the snow, gloves and a warm jacket are a sensible choice.
Small aircraft. The trip carries a maximum of six travellers, and the pilot banks the helicopter so everyone gets a view, as one reviewer described. The total weight limit per passenger is 165 kg. Children under 15 kg sit on a parent's lap.
Pilot commentary. Live commentary on board is included, and the pilot guide points out features as you fly. Several reviewers praised the pilots for sharing knowledge of the area and for making them feel safe.
Short walks only. There is no hiking involved. The only time on foot is the snow landing, where you get out and walk briefly on the snow.

Where this tour sits among the 5 per person flights in Franz Josef Flights To Mount Cook (from-price per person, USD)

Tasman Experience From Franz Josef$246.55
3 Glaciers, Snow Landing, 45 Minutes$399.43
Franz Josef Mountain Scenic, 40 Minutes (this tour)$409.68
Spectacular From Franz Josef$409.68
4 Glaciers, 2 Landings, 60 Minutes$514.37

Accessibility. The experience is wheelchair accessible, including surfaces, and service animals are allowed. Infants must sit on laps. Most travellers can participate, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

From$409.68 per person

Rating5.0 from 38 reviews

Ready To FlyCheck availability →

Common issues. Weather is the main friction. Several reviewers described flights cancelled or delayed because of cloud or storms, and the experience requires good weather and a minimum number of travellers. When that happens, you are offered a different date or a full refund, so a cancelled flight does not cost you money, but it can cost you your schedule if you are passing through. One reviewer was moved to a shorter 30-minute tour on another day, and another was relocated to a departure from Glentanner Park near Mount Cook a week later. Also note that items of a personal nature are excluded from the ticket.

Common Questions

What Is Included In The Price?

The ticket covers the 40-minute scenic helicopter flight with a snow landing of five to ten minutes, live commentary on board, a pilot guide, and GST. Items of a personal nature are not included. Confirmation arrives within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

Where Does The Flight Depart From?

From The Helicopter Line base at Main South Road, SH6, Franz Josef / Waiau 7856, New Zealand. The activity ends back at the same point. Check-in closes 30 minutes before your departure time, and the weather check happens at check-in.

Is Hotel Pickup Provided?

Pickup is not stated. Check the live booking page for your options before assuming any transport to the base is included.

Can Children Or Wheelchair Users Take This Flight?

Yes, with conditions. The experience is wheelchair accessible, surfaces are wheelchair accessible, and service animals are allowed. Children must be accompanied by an adult, infants sit on laps, and children weighing less than 15 kg must sit on a parent's lap.

What Is The Cancellation Policy?

Cancel at least 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside 24 hours, no refund and no changes are accepted, using the experience's local time. If the operator cancels for poor weather or because the minimum traveller number is not met, you are offered a different date, a different experience or a full refund.

What Should I Bring And Wear?

Warm clothing and suitable footwear, because of cold temperatures at altitude and on the snow. Reviewers suggest bringing a camera.