Franz Josef & Fox Glacier: Scenic Flight with Snow Landing

Two Glaciers, One Flight: Land on the Snow Between Them

You board a helicopter from Fox Glacier or Franz Josef, fly over both glacier systems with views of blue ice and snowfields, and land on the snow for 30 minutes to walk around. The flight includes a pre-flight safety briefing and departs on a fixed schedule — book the time that fits your day, and weather permitting, you're in the air within hours of arrival.

Step-by-step itinerary

Fly over Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers

• Depart from Fox Glacier
• View Fox Glacier from air
• Fly over snow-covered pinnacles
• Land on snowfield of Fox Glacier
• View Franz Josef Glacier from air
• Land on snowfield of Franz Josef Glacier
• Return flight to departure point

The Experience

"So we're actually landing on the glacier itself?" That's the question most people ask when they book this flight, and yeah — you touch down on the snowfield for about half an hour. The helicopter departs from either Fox Glacier or Franz Josef (check which one suits your schedule), and from the moment you lift off, you're looking at both glaciers at once. The pilot banks across the catchment areas — the Neves, where years of winter snow pile up and eventually feed down into the valleys below — and the whole landscape just opens up beneath you.

The blue ice is the thing that gets you. It's not white like you'd expect; it's this deep, almost translucent blue that only shows up when you're close enough to see the compression and age in it. The flight takes you over the snow-covered pinnacles, and then you land. Thirty minutes on the glacier itself. You can walk around, feel the cold coming off the ice, take photos that actually do the scale justice. The safety briefing happens before you go up, so you know what to expect — it's straightforward stuff, and then you're in the air.

Weather matters here. The South Island can turn fast, and if conditions aren't right, the flight gets rescheduled or cancelled — that's just how it works. But when it runs, you get both glaciers in one trip without having to choose between them. The helicopter holds a small group, which means the noise is manageable and you're not packed in. Families travel this route all the time; kids sit on laps if they're infants, and older children just need an adult with them. It's not a long flight, but it's the kind of thing you think about for years after.

What’s included

Your booking includes the helicopter flight departing from your chosen location (Fox Glacier or Franz Josef), a pre-flight safety briefing, the scenic flight over both glacier systems, and a 30-minute snow landing where you can walk on the snowfield. Transport to and from the helipad and any meals are not included.

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleStroller friendlyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by HeliServices.NZ Fox & Franz

Is this one for you?Book this if you want to see both glaciers without splitting your day between two separate trips, and you're flexible with timing since weather can shift departures by hours or a day.

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Top questions

Can I choose which glacier to depart from?

Yes. Departures are available from both Fox Glacier and Franz Josef, but they run on separate schedules. Check availability for your preferred location when booking.

What if the weather is bad?

Flights may be cancelled or rescheduled if conditions aren't safe. If that happens, you'll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can infants and young children go?

Yes. Infants can ride in a pram or stroller before boarding, and must sit on an adult's lap during the flight. Children of any age can fly as long as they're accompanied by an adult.

Is there a minimum group size?

Yes, minimum numbers apply. If the flight doesn't meet the passenger requirement after confirmation, it may be cancelled and you'll receive an alternative or refund.

Do I need to be fit for this?

No. The flight is suitable for all physical fitness levels. You board the helicopter, sit for the flight, and walk gently on the snow during the landing — no climbing or strenuous activity required.

Is the flight wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the flight is wheelchair accessible. Contact the operator with details of your needs when booking so they can arrange the best boarding process.

What's included in the price?

The flight, snow landing, and pre-flight safety briefing are included. Bring warm layers and sunscreen; the snow reflects intense UV light and temperatures at altitude are cold.