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The Kea Chronicles

A new addition to our fleet

We are extremely proud to announce a new addition to our fleet. Coming online this December is our brand-new custom-built Cessna 206 Stationair HD.

Last month, our Managing Director James Stokes flew from Queenstown, New Zealand to Wichita, Kansas in the USA to visit the Cessna Factory and see our new aircraft come off the production line. Our new aeroplane will have the CAA Aircraft Registration ZK-JTK.

Part of his week-long visit included training on the 206 at the Cessna Pilot Training Centre. James learned theory in the classroom and undertook training flights over Kansas and Oklahoma.

James Stokes, Managing Director, with our brand new Cessna 206 ZK-JTK straight off the production line at the Cessna Factory in Wichita, Kansas, USA.

The Cessna 206 has been described as the SUV of the skies. In production for decades, this aircraft is a well-proven stalwart of general aviation. The newest iteration of this aeroplane, the HD model, brings gains in speed, safety, and comfort to this classic design. After his first training flight in Kansas, James had this to say of our new aircraft:

The T206HD is a very impressive aeroplane, climbs fast and cruises at a good speed too. Really looking forward to seeing how it performs at home.

Inside our new Cessna 206 features the latest Garmin G1000 NXI glass cockpit avionics.
Premium and comfortable leather seats with noise-cancelling headsets and many safety features, including airbags in the seat belts, for our passengers.
Flying over Kansas…a bit different from the Southern Alps!
Our new aeroplane is currently on the water. We’ve been keeping a watchful eye on its journey across the Pacific.

ZK-JTK is due to arrive in the Port of Auckland in a few days. After its adventures at sea, it will be sent to our Maintenance provider, Performance Aviation, in Wanaka to be reassembled and receive its Certificate of Airworthiness. All going to plan, it will be on-line for the busy Christmas period.

Learn more about our current fleet here.

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Hear from Our Happy Customers – Mt. Cook

At Glenorchy Air, we pride ourselves on providing unforgettable scenic flight experiences over some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes. But don’t just take our word for it – hear from our happy passengers! Here are some testimonials that capture the magic of flying with Glenorchy Air to Milford Sound.

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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.