SOUTHERN LAKES / THE EXPERIENCE
Pilot’s Choice: 2 Glaciers & Snow Landing, 35min
BEFORE YOU GO
Your day, at a glance.
- Duration
- 36 min
- Group size
- Up to 20 people
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Our take
This is the flight most people book in Franz Josef, and the one our Franz Josef helicopter flight comparison names first for a single flight. You check in at 10 Main Road 30 minutes before take-off, fly about 35 minutes over Franz Josef and either Fox or the Tasman side, and spend roughly 10 minutes on a snowfield for photos. The pilot picks the exact route on the day, so the second glacier isn't fixed.
With around 390 reviews averaging close to 4.8, it has the deepest record on the page. Against Glacier Helicopters' 25 minute flight you get a second glacier and more time in the air; against the 45 minute Ultimate Discovery from the same company you give up the Tasman and Aoraki Mount Cook. Sean and Emily, who flew with this operator, found the pilots friendly and the ride smooth. Getting in means two high ladder-style steps, and it isn't wheelchair accessible.
Good for
- A first flight here when you want two glaciers and a landing without the price of the longest route
- Groups who'd rather the pilot choose the clearest route on the day
Think twice if
- You weigh 120 kg or more, since a paid comfort seat is compulsory
- You need step-free access, as the helicopter has two high ladder steps
Written by Southern Lakes Tours from the listing, traveller reviews and the videos behind our comparison pages. Checked November 2026. How we review tours.
From the operator
Fly from Franz Josef to see two of the biggest glaciers in New Zealand before a snow landing with our family owned and operated helicopter company.
We are locally owned by husband-and-wife team Gus and Poppy started our West Coast company in 2014. They are both commercial pilots and you'll generally find one of them out flying most days.
On our Pilots Choice flight, you'll see two of the three "big" glaciers. You'll fly over the Franz Josef Glacier then over either the Fox Glacier or Tasman Glacier and fly into the Southern Alps to enjoy the included 10-minute snow landing for photos. Total experience time approx. 35 minutes.
If you wish to book a Comfort Seat or request a Front Seat Upgrade, please contact us at least 24hours in advance of your flight.
Please allow an extra 45minutes on top of your flight time to allow for checking in, transport to helicopter, loading, unloading and to return to our office.
From the listing by Glacier Country Helicopters on Viator.
The tour, stop by stop
- The Pilot's Choice flight includes stunning views of the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers or Franz Josef and Tasman Glaciers.
- The Pilot's Choice flight includes stunning views of the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers or Franz Josef and Tasman Glaciers.
- The Pilot's Choice flight includes stunning views of the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers or Franz Josef and Tasman Glaciers.
What's included
- 35-minute scenic helicopter flight
- Snow landing (approx. 10 minutes) for photos
- Safety briefing and equipment (if required)
- Professional and experienced pilot
- All fees, GST, and taxes
Not included
- Comfort Seat (compulsory for passengers 120kg / 265lbs & over, or optional for extra space)
- Front Seat / Executive Upgrade (subject to availability, request in advance)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (check-in is at 10 Main Road, Franz Josef)
- Food and drinks
Meeting point
Please check in at our office 30 minutes prior to your flight time. We recommend bringing sunglasses, a jacket, camera, and shoes you don’t mind getting wet.
Our only base operates from Franz Josef. Cancellations within 24hours due to customer booking the wrong location will not be refunded.
Checking in
Please check in 30minutes prior to flight departure time at 10 Main Road, Franz Josef.
No shows or late check ins will result in the forfeit of your full fare and seat.
If you wish to book a Comfort Seat or request a Front Seat Upgrade, please contact us at least 24hours in advance of your flight.
Snow landings are always subject to weather conditions which can change extremely fast here, and these can be cancelled last minute conditions aren't considered safe.
Where it ends
Please check in at our office 30 minutes prior to your flight time. We recommend bringing sunglasses, a jacket, camera, and shoes you don’t mind getting wet.
Our only base operates from Franz Josef. Cancellations within 24hours due to customer booking the wrong location will not be refunded.
Your Viator voucher confirms the exact spot and time.
Good to know
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please let us know if you have limited mobility e.g. injury, arthritis or recent surgery? There are two high ladder style steps into the helicopter. This information could effect what helicopter we fly you in.
- Comfort Seats: Our helicopter seats are 40cm wide, an empty seat can be reserved next to you if you prefer extra space (passengers 120KG & over when weighed at check in will be required to purchase a Comfort Seat - these are half the RRP of your flight).
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
How refunds and weather cancellations work is on our booking help page.
How it compares
We compare this tour with the other options on our franz josef glacier tours page, with what each one includes and where it leaves from. How we choose tours.
KEEP YOUR OPTIONS OPEN
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