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35-Minute Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight

35 Minutes, 10 On The Snow

35-Minute Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight

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Duration
35 minutes including about 10 minutes on the snow
Meeting point
Franz Josef township
Run by
Glacier Country Helicopters

Overview

This 35-minute helicopter flight with Glacier Country Helicopters covers two glaciers in one loop: the Franz Josef first, then either the Fox or the Tasman, depending on conditions on the day. The route runs through the Southern Alps, past ice pinnacles and crevasses, with commentary from the pilot delivered through headsets. About 10 minutes of the trip is spent on the ground at an elevated snow landing site, where you can step out, walk around and take photos before the short flight back.

The flow is simple. You check in at the operator's base on Main Road in Franz Josef, get a safety briefing, then transfer to the hangar to meet the pilot and board. There is no walking component beyond the snow stop. Reviewers include first-time helicopter riders, honeymooners and one passenger who described being afraid of heights and loving it anyway.

It is an English-language tour with a pilot guide rather than a walking guide. Bring sunglasses, a camera, a jacket and closed-toe shoes, and leave large bags behind, as luggage is not allowed on board.

Duration35 minutes including about 10 minutes on the snow

What's Included

Included

  • Safety briefing
  • Helicopter flight
  • Headsets
  • Live commentary
  • Pilot

Not Included

  • Comfort seats
Run byGlacier Country Helicopters

Itinerary

  1. Check in and briefingArrive at 10 Main Road, Franz Josef / Waiau, for check-in and a safety briefing.
  2. Transfer to hangarYou are transferred to the activity provider's hangar, where you meet your pilot and guide.
  3. Board the helicopterPut on your headsets and board the helicopter for the flight.
  4. Fly the Southern AlpsThe flight covers the Franz Josef Glacier and then either the Fox or Tasman Glacier, with live pilot commentary over the ice formations and peaks.
  5. Snow landingThe helicopter stops at an elevated snow landing site for about 10 minutes on foot, ideal for photos.
  6. Return flightFly back to the base to finish the trip.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points shape how this flight plays out, from what you wear to how the weather decides the route.

Helicopter parked on a snowy mountain landing site under bright sun
  • Dress warm. The listing asks for sunglasses, a jacket and closed-toe shoes. You will be standing on snow at the landing site, so a warm layer earns its place even on a fine day.
  • Weather rules. The flight is weather-dependent, and routes can change or be cancelled at short notice. One honeymooning couple reported being switched to a landing on a nearby mountain because of cloud, so flexibility helps.
  • It goes fast. Multiple reviewers said the 35 minutes pass very quickly.
  • Photos on the snow. Bring a camera and keep it accessible. Several travellers said the pilot took photos for them at the landing site.
  • Leave the extras. Selfie sticks, tripods, walking sticks and large bags are not allowed on board, and smoking and drones are prohibited too. Pack light and leave luggage at your accommodation.
  • Smooth ride. Reviewers repeatedly described the flight as smooth, including nervous first-timers. If you are anxious about helicopters or heights, their accounts suggest the ride itself is gentler than the anticipation.
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Common issues. The biggest risk is the weather: flights can be rerouted or cancelled at short notice, and if that happens you are offered a reschedule or a full refund. Minimum passenger numbers also apply, so a departure can be cancelled if not enough people book, again with a reschedule or refund offered. Passengers weighing 120 kg or more at check-in must buy a comfort seat at half the retail price of the flight, an extra cost not covered by the base booking. One reviewer felt the return leg was quicker and less scenic than the outbound stretch for those not in window seats, so views depend somewhat on seating. One review also mentioned a snow landing being swapped to a nearby mountain because of cloud.

Common Questions

What Is Included In The Price?

The booking covers the safety briefing, the helicopter flight, headsets, live pilot commentary and the pilot guide. Comfort seats are not included. A comfort seat at half the retail price of the flight is required for passengers weighing 120 kg or more at check-in.

Where Does The Tour Start, And Is Pickup Included?

Pickup is not included. You check in at 10 Main Road, Franz Josef / Waiau, New Zealand, and are then transferred to the operator's hangar for boarding.

How Long Is The Flight And The Snow Stop?

The total experience runs 35 minutes, including about 10 minutes on the snow at an elevated landing site. Travellers note that the time passes quickly.

What Happens If The Weather Is Bad?

The flight is weather-dependent, so routes can change or be cancelled at short notice. If your flight is cancelled because of conditions, you are offered a reschedule or a full refund. The office team works with changing weather to fit flights where possible, according to reviewers.

Can I Cancel My Booking?

Yes. Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There is also a possibility of cancellation if minimum passenger numbers are not met, in which case a reschedule or full refund is offered.

What Should I Bring?

Bring sunglasses, a camera, a jacket and closed-toe shoes. Selfie sticks, tripods, walking sticks, crutches, drones, loose clothing, luggage and large bags are not allowed, and smoking is prohibited.

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