25-Minute Helicopter Flight: Alpine Landing in Mount Cook

Land on a mountain peak surrounded by the Southern Alps

A 25-minute helicopter flight over Aoraki Mount Cook National Park that includes an alpine landing on Brass Peak or Liebig Dome, with views of Tasman Glacier, the braided Tasman Valley and surrounding snow-capped ranges. The flight departs from Mount Cook Airport with a live English-speaking pilot offering commentary throughout; the mountain landing lasts approximately 10–15 minutes. Check-in closes 30 minutes before departure, and a minimum of 4 passengers is required for the flight to operate.

Step-by-step itinerary

Scenic helicopter flight and alpine landing

• Check in at Aoraki Mt Cook Airport
• Fly over Tasman braided rivers and glacier lake
• Enjoy informative pilot commentary
• Land on mountain top near Aoraki Mt Cook
• Disembark and explore alpine landscape
• Return flight to Mount Cook Airport

The Experience

The flight departs Mount Cook Airport and climbs over the Tasman braided rivers toward the glacier. You'll see Aoraki (Mt Cook) and the surrounding peaks from takeoff, then cross the Tasman Valley and pass over the iceberg-dotted Tasman Terminal Lake. The helicopter lands on a mountain top — either Brass Peak or Liebig Dome — where you step out onto the alpine landscape for 10–15 minutes. From there, the view looks directly at Aoraki and the Tasman Valley below. You'll wear headsets throughout so the pilot's commentary comes through clearly over the rotor noise.

The entire flight runs 25 minutes. Snow landings occur roughly 75% of the year depending on season and weather, though the landing itself is not guaranteed year-round; the operator notes that for guaranteed snow landings all year, their Ski Plane & Helicopter Glacier flight is an alternative. Flights may be cancelled due to weather conditions. The aircraft is an AS350 Squirrel helicopter, and all areas are wheelchair accessible. Infants must sit on an adult's lap, though specialized infant seats are available. Children need to be accompanied by an adult. A minimum of 4 people per flight is required before the flight will operate.

What’s included

• Helicopter flight in an AS350 Squirrel.
• alpine landing on a mountain peak in the Southern Alps.
• headsets for clear communication with the pilot.
• live English-language pilot commentary throughout the flight.

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleInfant seats availablePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Mount Cook Ski Planes and Helicopters

Is this one for you?Fly over Tasman Glacier and land in the Southern Alps for views of Aoraki, all within 25 minutes—perfect for experiencing the peaks without sacrificing your day.

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Top questions

What will I see during the 25-minute flight?

You'll see Aoraki (Mt Cook), the surrounding snow-capped mountain ranges, the Tasman braided rivers, the Tasman Valley and Tasman Glacier with its iceberg-dotted terminal lake. The flight includes an alpine landing on a mountain peak where you can step out and view the landscape directly.

How long do I spend on the ground after landing?

The alpine landing on the mountain top lasts approximately 10–15 minutes, giving you time to step out and take in the views before returning to the helicopter for the flight back to Mount Cook Airport.

Are snow landings guaranteed?

Snow landings occur roughly 75% of the year, but they cannot be guaranteed year-round due to seasonality and weather conditions. If guaranteed snow landings are important to your trip, the operator offers a Ski Plane & Helicopter Glacier flight as an alternative.

What time should I arrive for check-in?

Check-in closes 30 minutes before your scheduled flight time, so you'll need to arrive with enough time to complete the process before that deadline.

Is there a minimum number of passengers required?

Yes, a minimum of 4 people per flight is required before the flight will operate. If your group is smaller, contact the operator directly to discuss options.