BLOG

THE KEA CHRONICLES

Mission Impossible Fallout: Sharing the sky with Tom Cruise

Lake Quill: The location of the Helicopter gun fight in Fallout, and one of the captive lakes seen on our return journey from Milford Sound.

Photo credit: Jason Charles Hill

The newly-released blockbuster boasts a star studded cast, including Tom Cruise, Henry Cavil, Simon Pegg and Rebecca Ferguson. As impressive as the cast is, we feel that it played second fiddle to some of the breath-taking filming locations. Milford Sound, Glenorchy and Queenstown were all used in the exhilarating helicopter scenes. Cruise spent two years getting his licence to create these daredevil scenes. These filming locations just so happen to be exactly where we fly over on our way to Milford Sound.

With stunning scenery in every direction, it’s no surprise that this part of the world has become popular with film makers. To note, Queenstown is the home of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies. Furthermore, Central Otago and Fiordland have since played host to many movies. These include The Water Horse (2007), Wolverine (2009), Top Of The Lake (2013) and Alien Covenant (2017).

Our region has a sterling  track record in the film industry. Alongside, we have some of the most impressive scenery in the world and special aviation laws that accommodate “stunt flying”. It was a no brainer to record the helicopter scenes for the latest installment of the Mission Impossible franchise here. Watching the movie gave us an exhilarating, and terrifying, perspective on a flight that we’re so familiar with. While we won’t be trying to recreate any of Cruise’s stunts in our fixed wing planes, it was definitely fun to watch.

If you would like to get an aerial view of all the incredible places mentioned above, without having to dangle from a rope a few thousand feet above the ground, then get in touch. We’d love to have you fly with us!

SHARE THIS POST ⟶

Read the latest blogs

Read the latest blogs

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.

Read More ⟶
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.