Glaciers Flight, 55 Minutes

Mount Cook and The Glaciers 55-Minute Helicopter Flight

★ 4.7 142 reviews

from $538.86 per person

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Duration: 55 minutes
Meeting point: Glentanner Park
Cancellation: Free cancellation
Run by: The Helicopter Line

Overview

This 55-minute helicopter flight, run by The Helicopter Line from Glentanner Park on State Highway 80, arcs from the Aoraki/Mount Cook area across the main divide to the West Coast, and it adds an alpine snow landing partway through. The pilot acts as guide throughout, and GST is included in the fare.

The route passes Aoraki/Mount Cook, Tasman Glacier, Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier before turning back, which is the main draw: travellers who booked it, sometimes after a glacier walk elsewhere was cancelled, said it was a better outcome because they saw all the glaciers in one flight. Reviews repeatedly single out the snow landing, stepping out onto fresh snow with a full view of the mountains around the aircraft.

It suits first-time helicopter passengers, with reviewers who had never flown in one saying they felt relaxed and able to take in the scenery. The aircraft carries a maximum of six travellers. Warm clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended because of cold temperatures at altitude and on the snow.

From$538.86 per person

Duration55 minutes

Rating4.7 from 142 reviews

What's Included

Included

Scenic helicopter flight
Pilot guide
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
See Aoraki/Mount Cook, Tasman Glacier and West Coast Glaciers
Alpine Snow Landing

Not Included

Items of a personal nature

Run byThe Helicopter Line

Itinerary

Meet at Glentanner ParkCheck in at Glentanner Park on State Highway 80, the meeting point for this flight. Whether pickup is provided is not stated, so check the booking page for transport options.
Safety briefingGround staff explain the trip details and safety procedures before boarding. Several reviewers praised this part of the experience.
Fly Aoraki and Tasman GlacierThe helicopter lifts off and passes Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Tasman Glacier, with the pilot commentating as guide.
Cross to the West Coast glaciersThe route continues over the main divide to pass Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier on the West Coast side.
Alpine snow landingThe flight includes an alpine snow landing, where travellers step out onto the snow. Pilots have helped with photographs at this stop, according to reviews.
Return to Glentanner ParkThe flight ends back at the same meeting point at Glentanner Park.

Glacier Landing: Weather permitting

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points shape how this flight actually goes, from seating to weather.

Low cloud lifting off the Main Divide above the broad gravel Tasman valley floor, a tiny helicopter against pale sky.

Dress warmly. Warm clothing and suitable footwear are recommended because of cold temperatures. The snow landing makes this advice practical, not optional.
Weather rules. The flight requires favourable weather, and an alternative date or full refund is offered when it is cancelled for that reason.
Seating is fixed. The helicopter takes a maximum of six travellers, and the total weight per passenger is capped at 165 kg.
First-timers welcome. Travellers who had never flown in a helicopter said they felt relaxed and able to enjoy the views, crediting the pilots. Most travellers can participate.
Bring a camera. Reviews describe the scenery from the flight and the snow landing as the highlight of whole South Island trips. Pilots have reportedly helped passengers with photos during the landing.
Weight limits. Total weight per passenger is capped at 165 kg, and infants must sit on a lap unless they occupy a seat, with an infant rate applying below 15 kg. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

From$538.86 per person

Rating4.7 from 142 reviews

Ready To FlyCheck availability →

Common issues. The flight is subject to favourable weather and may also require a minimum number of travellers, with a different date, experience or refund offered if the minimum is not met. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

Common Questions

What Is Included In The Price?

The scenic helicopter flight, a pilot guide, GST, views of Aoraki/Mount Cook, Tasman Glacier and the West Coast glaciers, and an alpine snow landing are all included. Items of a personal nature are not.

Where Does The Flight Leave From?

The meeting point is Glentanner Park, State Highway 80, Glentanner, 18 km from Mount Cook village. Whether pickup is provided is not stated, so check the booking page for transport details.

What Happens If The Weather Is Bad?

The flight requires good weather. If it is cancelled for weather, an alternative date or a full refund is offered.

Can Children Join The Flight?

Yes. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and infants must sit on a lap. Infant rates apply when infants do not occupy a seat and weigh under 15 kg.

What Is The Cancellation Policy?

Cancel at least 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside 24 hours there is no refund and changes are not accepted. Cut-off times follow the local experience time, and weather or minimum-number cancellations come with an alternative date or refund.

What Should I Wear And Bring?

Warm clothing and suitable footwear are recommended because of cold temperatures, especially for the snow landing. The flight is not wheelchair accessible, and the total weight limit per passenger is 165 kg.