Aviation Safety at Glenorchy Air

At Glenorchy Air, safety is more than a priority. It is at the heart of everything we do. Every part of our operation, from pilot training to aircraft maintenance, is guided by an uncompromising commitment to your wellbeing. We take a proactive approach that goes beyond industry standards and regulatory requirements. Our Safety Management System identifies and manages risks before they arise, and we actively seek out new advances in aviation safety to bring into our operations. Every scenic flight delivers breathtaking views with the peace of mind that your safety is always comes first.

How Glenorchy Air Keeps Every Flight Safe

Safety Management System

Our Safety Management System identifies, assesses and reduces risk before it reaches the flight line. Our team reviews it continually. It evolves as new advances in aviation safety emerge.

Experienced Pilots

Glenorchy Air pilots complete regular flight training, emergency procedure drills and proficiency checks. Together they have logged thousands of hours in the alpine conditions of Fiordland and the Southern Alps.

Aircraft Maintenance

Our fleet is the most modern in New Zealand. Every aircraft is inspected before each flight. Performance Aviation in Wanaka maintains the fleet on an exacting schedule of checks.

Weather Decisions

Our pilots assess the weather one hour before every scheduled departure. They review the forecast for the full length of your trip. If conditions may change, we do not leave Queenstown.

Your Pre-Flight Safety Briefing

Before take off, your pilot gives a full safety briefing. It covers the safety equipment on board, emergency procedures and exit locations.

A Safety Instructions card sits in the seat pocket of every Glenorchy Air aircraft for reference throughout your flight.

Safety Resources

To help you prepare for your flight, we’ve provided additional information about flying with Glenorchy Air.

Risk Disclosure Statement

Understand the inherent risks of flying in New Zealand's alpine environment, including weather and terrain.

Safety Information Cards

Review the safety information cards for your destination before your flight. Cards are available in English, Chinese, and Japanese.

Frequently Asked Questions About Glenorchy Air

Yes. Glenorchy Air is certified by the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand and holds Air Operator Certificate AOC38167.

Yes. Your pilot gives every passenger a full safety briefing before take off, covering the equipment on board, emergency procedures and exits. A safety card sits in the seat pocket in front of you.

Our fleet is maintained by the specialist engineers at Performance Aviation in Wanaka.

We will first offer an alternative scenic flight on the same day where we can. Otherwise our team will help you reschedule or provide a full refund.

Scenic Flights
How long is this trip?

This is a Half Day experience. From check in 30 minutes before departure, to landing back at Queenstown Airport, is approximately 5 to 5 1/2 hours. Please note, this does not include time for self-driving or using our complimentary transfers. If you have plans immediately either side of your experience with us, please let us know.

What time is best to fly?

It’s always a good time to fly! If the option is there, we would suggest either our 9.00am or 1.30pm departures. Please note, our 1.30pm departure time is only available at certain times of the year. Whilst we cannot guarantee it, Milford Sound can sometimes be a little bit quieter at these times.

What should I bring?

We suggest you bring the following with you to make it a great day out:

  • Any essential medication
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug Spray
  • Camera – make sure it’s fully charged
  • Warm clothing layers – you’ll want to enjoy the open-air viewing decks where it can get chilly
  • Sensible footwear
  • Bottle of water
How long is the scenic flight?

Your flights between Queenstown and Milford Sound are approximately 40 minutes each way.

How long is the cruise?

Your Nature Cruise through Milford Sound with our partners Southern Discoveries is 1 hour 45 mins.

Is food included with the cruise?

No, lunch is not included. When making your booking online, you have the option to add a picnic lunch for an additional cost that will be ready for you on the cruise. We have vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options available.

Complimentary tea, coffee and water is available. A selection of small snacks are available to purchase onboard. You are also welcome to bring snacks of your own.

Is there an indoor area on the cruise?

Yes, the cruise has a large indoor area with comfortable seating and tables.

What will I see on the cruise?

Your cruise through Milford Sound is on a boat with a large open-top deck and comfy interior cabins with full-height windows for optimal viewing. Take in the stunning scenery of Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, Copper Point, and the Tasman Sea. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins and penguins.

Is the cruise suitable for an infant?

We would say the cruise is suitable for all ages.

Is there a nappy changing facility/station available inside the cruise?

Yes, there is a nappy changing facility onboard the cruise.

What happens if the weather prevents us from flying back to Queenstown?

Our pilots will always look at the forecast for the full duration of your trip and if we feel like the weather may change, we will not leave Queenstown. Due to the weather-dependent nature of flying in the Southern Alps to Milford Sound, it is unfortunate that there are very rare occasions where the forecast changes on us and although uncommon, it can be a case that we are unable to operate the return flight. The safety of our passengers is always our highest priority and in the unlikely event that this ever occurs, we will arrange coach transfers back to Queenstown. We fully appreciate the inconvenience this will cause and do everything we can to look after our passengers.