We Rank Franz Josef and Fox Glacier’s 14 Top Helicopter Flights & Tours

Exploring Franz Josef and Fox Glacier by helicopter offers a perspective that ground-based tours simply can’t match. With towering icefalls, rugged peaks, and snow-capped summits, these glaciers are best appreciated from the air. Whether it’s landing on a glacier for a snow walk or circling Mount Cook, helicopter flights here turn an already breathtaking landscape into an unforgettable experience. For instance, the Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight with Landing (see here) offers a perfect mix of aerial views and a mountain landing, making it ideal for those craving a tangible connection to the landscape. And if you want to see both glaciers in one trip, the Twin Glacier 35-Minute Helicopter Flight (see here) is a superb choice.

Quick Overview

This list includes range of scenic helicopter flights, from quick 20-minute scenic flights to extended 40-minute mountain excursions. Many tours feature snow landings, allowing you to step onto the ice and take photos, while others focus on panoramic views of the Southern Alps, Mount Cook, and the glaciers themselves. Options are available from private flights to small-group adventures, with some tours offering live pilot commentary and others emphasizing the thrill of landing on untouched snow. Check out each experience below for details to match your travel style.

1. Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight with Landing

At number 1, this 25-minute helicopter tour includes a landing on Franz Josef Glacier. It’s rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 215 reviews, largely thanks to its combination of stunning views and local, family-run service. The flight starts with sweeping vistas of lush rainforest, glacier ice, and the mountain ranges of the Southern Alps. The highlight is the alpine landing, about 10 minutes on top of a peak, where you can soak in icy silence and take photos of the pristine snow. The pilot works with a local husband and wife team, which adds a personal touch many visitors appreciate. This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a quick but immersive glacier experience without sacrificing quality. Reviewers love the “completely amazing” views and the “great pilot,” making it a top pick for a reliable, memorable flight.

Bottom Line: A great option for those wanting a shorter, high-impact glacier experience with the bonus of a mountain landing.

2. Franz Josef Glacier 25-Minute Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing

Number 2 on our list, this 25-minute flight also lands on Franz Josef’s snowfield, providing panoramic views of ice, crevasses, and snowfields. It’s rated 5.0 with 197 reviews, and the tours depart multiple times daily, offering flexibility. The flight takes you from the township up above the glaciers, giving a bird’s-eye view of ice falls and deep cracks. Touching down on the snowfield allows an up-close look at the icy landscape, perfect for photos and soaking in the Alpine air. Several travelers mention how accommodating the pilot was—important when weather can be unpredictable. While there’s a small chance of weather cancellations, the experience of standing on a glacier from the sky makes this one of the most memorable ways to see Franz Josef.

Bottom Line: If a snow landing is a priority and you want multiple departures, this tour offers great value and flexibility.

3. Franz Josef: Twin Glacier 35-Minute Helicopter Flight

Number 3 takes you over both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers in one 35-minute flight. Rated 5.0 from 135 reviews, it’s ideal for those who want the bigger picture of the region’s glaciers. The tour includes a live commentary on the glaciers’ formations and history and offers a snow landing overlooking the ice. The small-group setting ensures a more personalized experience, with some reviews mentioning how the pilot’s insights made the flight even more interesting. Flying over two glaciers allows you to compare their different characteristics—draped in snow, cracking ice, and massive icefalls—making this a comprehensive aerial tour.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a more detailed regional view with the chance to step onto two glaciers.

4. Fox Glacier: 25-Minute Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing

Number 4 offers a 25-minute scenic flight over Fox Glacier, ending with a snow landing. With a 5.0 rating from 100 reviews, this trip combines impressive aerial views of ice, snow, and rugged peaks with a hands-on snow experience. Departing from Fox Glacier township, your pilot will take you over icefalls, frozen rivers, and valleys before touching down on the glacier itself. Travelers mention how spectacular the views are, and how the landing on the glacier is a highlight. Weather can impact flights, but when it’s clear, this experience is truly unforgettable. It’s suitable for those looking for a balance of scenery and adventure in a short time.

Bottom Line: For a compact, scenic adventure with a snow landing on one of New Zealand’s most famous glaciers, this tour hits the mark.

5. Franz Josef: Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing

This 35-minute twin glacier flight (rated 4.5 with 179 reviews) offers a comprehensive view of both glaciers with a snow landing. It’s ideal if you want to see the scale and variety of the glaciers in one go. You’ll fly over Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, hear interesting pilot commentary, and land on the snow to experience the icy terrain firsthand. Reviewers especially note the spectacular views and how the pilot’s informative narration adds value. It’s a longer, more immersive option that appeals to travelers eager to understand the region better.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a fuller experience of both glaciers coupled with an icy landing.

6. Fox Glacier and Mount Cook Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing

Number 6 offers a personalized, small-group 35-minute flight that includes Aoraki Mount Cook and Fox Glacier. Rated 5.0 from 40 reviews, this tour is perfect if you want to combine mountain views with glacier scenery. The pilot guides you over the Southern Alps, pointing out hidden features and the highest mountain in New Zealand. The highlight is landing on Fox Glacier and getting close to ice formations. The flight also features narration about the Southern Alps’ geology and history. This is for travelers wanting a more personalized, in-depth experience with plenty of photo opportunities.

Bottom Line: Great for those who wish to combine mountain and glacier scenery in a smaller, more intimate tour.

7. Franz Josef: Mountain Scenic Spectacular 40-Min Helicopter Flight

Rated 5.0 with 36 reviews, this 40-minute flight is a longer adventure that includes a snow landing on Franz Josef Glacier. It offers breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mt. Cook, the Tasman Glacier, and the Southern Alps. The pilot provides fascinating commentary as you fly over icefalls, crevasses, and mountain peaks. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a more comprehensive aerial experience with substantial time in the air and on the glacier. The extra time allows for better photo opportunities and a deeper appreciation of the landscape.

Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a longer, in-depth helicopter experience with mountain and glacier highlights.

8. 25mins Private Helicopter Flight in Franz Josef with Landing

This private 25-minute flight caters to small groups or couples, rated 5.0 from 13 reviews. It offers exclusive access to the glacier and the Southern Alps with a 10-minute snow or alpine landing. Because it’s private, your experience can be tailored, and you’ll enjoy more personalized service. The hour and 15-minute total experience time includes check-in, transport, and post-flight, ensuring a seamless process. Reviewers mention how the private aspect makes it feel more special—and the spectacular scenery is a given.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting exclusive, tailored helicopter access with a private guide.

9. Mount Cook Spectacular Helicopter Flight from Franz Josef

Number 9, rated 5.0 with 14 reviews, is a 40-minute flight focusing on Mount Cook. It includes a snow landing and a fly-over of Franz Josef and Fox glaciers. The route crosses the Southern Alps, circling the highest peak in New Zealand. Travelers have commented on the professional pilots and how the experience was “spectacular” even in less-than-ideal weather. This tour is perfect for those wanting to combine glacier views with mountain scenery, with enough time in the air to truly appreciate the scale of Mount Cook.

Bottom Line: Recommended for those wanting the full Mount Cook experience with a scenic snow landing.

10. Twin Glacier 35-Minute Helicopter Flight from Fox Glacier

This 35-minute twin glacier flight (rated 4.5 with 46 reviews) departs from Fox Glacier and flies over both Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers. It includes a snow landing and touches down in a snowfield where you can step onto the ice. The scenic route offers views of Westland Tai Poutini National Park and the ice formations that make these glaciers so impressive. Tourists highlight the “spectacular views” and the chance to stand on a glacier for photos. Weather can affect whether you land, so flexibility is important.

Bottom Line: Great for those wanting to see both glaciers in one trip with a snow landing.

11. Franz Josef: Neve Discoverer Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing

Number 11 offers a 20-minute flight with a snow landing, rated 4.5 from 36 reviews. It’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a shorter, focused glacier experience. The tour hovers over crevasses and ice formations before landing on the snowfield atop Franz Josef Glacier. It’s praised for friendly pilots and stunning scenery, with many reviewers emphasizing how the snow landing” makes the experience special. It’s an excellent pick if you’re tight on time but still want a taste of the glacier.

Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick but impactful glacier experience.

12. Fox Glacier Mountain Scenic Spectacular 40-Min Helicopter Flight

Rated 4.5 from 26 reviews, this 40-minute scenic flight includes a snow landing over Fox Glacier, with views of Mt. Cook and Tasman Glacier. The trip offers ample opportunities for photos and gets you close to the highest peaks of New Zealand. The pilot’s commentary adds depth to the landscape, and the duration gives you enough time to really take it all in. This is ideal for adventurers wanting a longer, more comprehensive aerial tour.

Bottom Line: Geared toward travelers seeking a longer, cinematic view of the Southern Alps and glaciers.

13. Fox Glacier: Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing

This 35-minute flight (rated 4.5 from 33 reviews) takes you over both glaciers, with a snow landing on Fox Glacier. It’s a favorite for its ability to combine scenic views and glacier access in a short window. You’ll fly over ice formations and crevasses, then land at the head of Fox Glacier to enjoy the icy landscape up close. Reviewers highlight the professionalism of pilots and how landing on the glacier leaves a lasting impression.

Bottom Line: A solid choice for seeing two glaciers with a scenic snow landing in a mid-length tour.

14. Fox Glacier: Neve Discoverer Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing

Last but not least, the 20-minute scenic flight with a snow landing offers a quick yet immersive view of Fox Glacier. It’s rated 4.5 from 20 reviews, and provides a bird’s-eye view of ice-blue fissures and Aoraki/Mt Cook in the distance. The pilot narration enhances the experience, making it clear why this is a popular choice for those short on time but eager to see the glacier firsthand.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a short, scenic helicopter trip combined with a snow landing.

How to Choose Your Helicopter Adventure

When deciding which helicopter tour to book in Franz Josef or Fox Glacier, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you’re after an intimate, private experience, the 25mins Private Helicopter Flight might be perfect. For those wanting comprehensive glacier views with mountain crossings, the longer 40-minute flights like the Mount Cook Spectacular or Fox Glacier Mountain Scenic are excellent choices. Weather is unpredictable here, so it’s wise to book early and remain flexible. Consider the seasonal snow levels and your comfort with flying—some tours are more suited for thrill-seekers, while others prioritize the scenic and photographic experience.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between these helicopter tours depends on what you value most—whether it’s a quick scenic flight, a full mountain adventure, or the thrill of landing on a glacier. For a balanced experience, the Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight with Landing offers spectacular views and a glacier touchdown. If you want to see both glaciers in one go, the Twin Glacier 35-Minute Flight is hard to beat.

Travelers looking for an exclusive, private experience should consider the Private Helicopter Flight, while those with extra time will appreciate the longer mountain flights that include Aoraki Mount Cook and Tasman Glacier.

Remember, weather plays a big role here—it’s best to book early in your trip to maximize your chances of good flying conditions. With so many options, you’re sure to find an aerial adventure that matches your adventurous spirit and curiosity. Now, get ready to see New Zealand’s stunning glaciers from the sky—you won’t regret it.