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Media Release: Glenorchy Air Adds Second Daher Kodiak 100 to Fleet

Glenorchy Air's first Daher Kodiak 100 ZK-KDK

Glenorchy Air, a leading scenic flight company and a subsidiary of Stokes Aviation, has announced the acquisition of a second Daher Kodiak 100. This 10-seat aircraft will undergo preparations for operations in Oklahoma, USA, before being ferried via Hawaii, Kiribati, and Samoa to New Zealand. Once regulatory approval is obtained, it will enter commercial service.

The 2022 Daher Kodiak 100 Series III, manufactured in Sandpoint, Idaho, USA, will join Glenorchy Air’s existing fleet, which along with their series II Kodiak, includes two Cessna Grand Caravan EX’s and a GippsAero GA8 Airvan. The company’s Cessna 206 HD is currently for sale and will be retired from the fleet after delivery.

Managing Director James Stokes commented, “The Kodiak’s exceptional runway performance and overall efficiency align perfectly with our fleet requirements. This acquisition reinforces Glenorchy Air’s commitment to becoming the first Queenstown operator to utilise sustainable fuels when available in New Zealand. We eagerly anticipate incorporating this aircraft into our operations in time for Summer 2024.”

As well as this acquisition, the company’s Cessna Grand Caravan EX ZK-PPR will be sent to Napier in late August to be repainted in Glenorchy Air livery. This will have the expanded fleet looking sharp for the busy tourist season ahead.

Glenorchy Air is a CAA Part 135 and 125-certificated airline based in Queenstown, New Zealand. It specialised in scenic flights to Milford Sound, Mt. Cook and Stewart Island.

To learn more about our current fleet, click here.

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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.