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Frequently Asked Questions

We're here to answer your questions

We know that planning your flight can come with a few questions, so we’ve put together this handy FAQ to cover the essentials. Whether you’re curious about what to bring, how to book, or what to expect on the day of your flight, we’re here to make sure you’re prepared and excited for the journey ahead. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, our friendly team is just a call or email away!

Booking Information
Before Your Flight
Location + Parking
Flight Information
Health + Safety
Cancellations + Refunds
The Glenorchy Air Difference

Booking Information

Before Your Flight

Location + Parking

Flight Information

Health + Safety

Cancellations + Refunds

The Glenorchy Air Difference

Booking Information

Are your prices in New Zealand Dollars?

Yes, all prices on our website are listed in New Zealand Dollars (NZD) and include GST.

How far in advance should I make my booking?

We recommend booking your flight on the first day of your time in Queenstown, in case we need to reschedule due to weather. Bookings can be made directly online or by phone or email:

What information do you need when I book?

We require the following information when booking:

  • Number of passengers (Adult, Child, Infant)
  • Preferred date of departure and time
  • Specific scenic flight you would like to book
  • All passenger first and last names
  • All passenger weights in either kgs or lbs
  • Contact phone number
  • Email address
  • Pickup location, if applicable
  • Dietary requirements, if applicable
  • Credit card details to hold your booking
Do I need to pay in full when booking?

When booking direct with us online, full payment is required at the time of booking. When booking through an agent, we require credit card details to hold your booking. We will not charge your card until the flight is confirmed on the day of departure.

What are you Infant and Child age categories?
  • Infants are 0-2 years old and weight 15kgs or less.
  • Infants over 15kgs must occupy their own seat and will be charged the Child price.
  • One infant per adult.
  • Children are 3-14 years old.
Do you offer complimentary transport to Queenstown Airport?

Yes, we offer complimentary pick ups and drop offs within Central Queenstown. Please select your pick up location when booking online.

Please note, we are unable to pick up from Airbnb, residential or holiday rental properties. We do not pick up from Lake Hayes, Shotover Country, Arthurs Point, Arrowtown, Gibbston Valley, Hanleys Farm or Jacks Point.

If you are unsure where your closest pickup location is, please contact us.

Do your scenic flights have fixed departure times?

Yes, all departure times for our products are listed on their product pages when you book online. If you are looking for a non-standard departure time, please contact us.

Do you sell gift cards?

Yes, we sell fixed-amount gift cards and gift cards for select products. Please visit our gift cards page for more information.

Can I book a private charter flight?

Absolutely! We offer two products that have private charter flights, the Milford Sound Private Charter Flight + VIP Cruise and our Mt. Cook Private Charter Flight + VIP Heli Hike. If you’re looking strictly for a private charter to get from A to B, please visit our charter business Queenstown Air Charter by Glenorchy Air.

Do you fly all year round?

Yes! We are open 364 days a year, depending on weather. We are closed on Christmas Day.

Before Your Flight

What should I wear on a scenic flight?

We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and dressing for the season. Even on sunny days, temperatures can vary in alpine environments such as Milford Sound and Mt Cook, so a light jacket is a good idea. Comfortable footwear is also recommended.

What can I bring with me on the aircraft?

You are welcome to bring personal items such as cameras, phones, sunglasses, jackets and small bags. If you are travelling on a Milford Sound, Mt Cook or Stewart Island scenic flight, our team can advise any baggage limitations before departure. Contact us with any questions.

Can I bring a backpack or handbag?

Yes. Small backpacks, handbags and personal items can usually be carried on board, subject to aircraft weight and space restrictions. If you plan to bring larger items, please contact our team before your flight so we can make the necessary arrangements.

Can I take photos during the flight?

Absolutely. Our scenic flights are designed to showcase some of New Zealand’s most spectacular landscapes, including Milford Sound, the Southern Alps, Mt. Aspiring National Park and Aoraki / Mt. Cook. Every passenger enjoys a window seat, making it easy to capture incredible aerial photos throughout the journey. Make sure your phone and camera are fully charged.

Will I receive a safety briefing before the flight?

Yes. Before every flight, your pilot will provide a comprehensive safety briefing covering aircraft procedures, safety equipment and what to expect during your journey. Your safety and comfort are always our highest priorities.

Location + Parking

Where is Glenorchy Air located?

We are located inside the main terminal building of Queenstown Airport, directly across from domestic baggage claim. You can find us here.

Do you offer pickups and drop offs?

Yes, we offer complimentary pick ups and drop offs within Central Queenstown. Please select your pick up location when booking online.

Please note, we are unable to pick up from Airbnb, residential or holiday rental properties. We do not pick up from Lake Hayes, Shotover Country, Arthurs Point, Arrowtown, Gibbston Valley, Hanleys Farm or Jacks Point.

If you are unsure where your closest pickup location is, please contact us.

Where should I park if I'm driving myself?
If you are self driving, we unfortunately do not have free parking at Queenstown Airport. Terminal Parking A is the closest parking to our check-in point, but costs approximately $12-20. Details of the closest free parking can be found in your booking confirmation email.

Flight Information

Where do your flights depart from?

All flights, outside of our Milford Sound One-Way Flight, depart from Queenstown Airport. We can offer pick ups from the Glenorchy Air Strip. Please let us know at the time of booking.

Do I need to request a window seat?

All seats on all of our aircraft are window seats! Our fleet was consciously picked for their flightseeing capabilities and large windows for unobstructed views for the spectacular scenery we fly over. Passengers seat allocation however is at the Pilots’ discretion due to weight and balance of the plane.

With us, your window seat awaits!

How many passengers are on each flight?

Each plane has a carrying capacity ranging from 7 to 13 passengers.

Will the pilot provide commentary during the flight?

Yes. Our pilots share informative commentary throughout the flight, pointing out key landmarks, mountain ranges, glaciers, lakes and other places of interest. It’s a fantastic way to learn more about the landscapes you’re flying over while enjoying the views.

Do you have minimum numbers to confirm a flight?

Yes. All products require a minimum number of paying adult passengers to be confirmed. Bookings will be accepted for numbers less than the required minimum and our team will work to coordinate bookings to achieve the required minimum numbers for the flight to depart, but this cannot be guaranteed. We will contact you within the shortest possible time to confirm with you if the flight is able to go ahead. Separate minimum numbers apply to third party activities, such as Heli Hiking.

Will we fly over the scenery in the product photos?

Your pilot will try their best. Because our scenic flights are based in alpine flying conditions, flight paths due to weather may be altered for the safety of everyone on board.

What if the weather is not good on the day of my flight?

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. Our flights are weather-dependent. Pilots will make a weather check 1 hour before each scheduled departure. If we cannot fly due to adverse weather conditions, we will attempt to reschedule depending on your schedule and flight availability. If we cannot reschedule, you will receive a 100% refund.

What type of aircraft will I fly on?

We operate 4 types of aircraft. The piston engines are our Tecnam P2012 Traveller and GippsAero GA8 Airvan. Our Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX and Daher Kodiak 100 Series II are turboprops.

Learn more about our fleet here.

How many pilots are onboard?

We run a single-pilot operation for all of our flights. Your pilot will provide a safe and memorable experience with commentary along your journey. Meet our pilots here.

What altitude will we fly at?

Our cruising altitude is weather-dependent and ranges between 5,000-10,000 feet.

Can children fly on scenic flights?

Yes. Children are welcome on our scenic flights and many families choose to experience Milford Sound, Mt Cook and New Zealand’s Southern Alps together from the air. All passengers are provided with a window seat, giving children the same incredible views as the adults on board.

Children aged 3 to 14 years travel at the child fare, while infants aged 0 to 2 years who weigh 15kg or less may travel as an infant. If you’re travelling with young children and have any questions before your flight, our team is happy to help.

Do you provide hearing protection for children?

We can provide earmuffs for our young passengers. They have an impressive noise reduction rating of 22db and are approved to Global Safety Standards.

What is the best time of year for a scenic flight?

Every season offers something unique. Summer brings long daylight hours and vibrant colours, autumn offers golden landscapes, winter showcases snow-covered peaks, and spring features dramatic waterfalls fed by snowmelt. Scenic flights over New Zealand are spectacular year-round, making any time a great time to fly.

Health + Safety

Is there a passenger weight limit?

We are required to make sure that the aircraft is operated within its maximum weight limitations and the aircraft’s centre of gravity is within limits. We, therefore, request passenger weights at the time of booking, to assist us operationally in planning and managing seat availability and to provide a great customer experience. Please ensure you contact us directly before making a booking if any passengers are 140kg (308lb) or over. Our helicopter partners require prior notification of anyone over 116kg (255lb). This is applicable to our heli hiking products or any helicopter add-on.

 

Should your actual weight at the time of check in be more than 15kg (33lb) over your declared weight it may result in the aircrafts weight and balance limitations being exceeded. In this instance your booking may need to be rescheduled, subject to availability.

Can I choose my own seat on the plane?
Passengers seat allocation is at the Pilots’ discretion due to the weight and balance of the plane.
Are your flights suitable for passengers using a wheelchair?
All air operators are required by law to take into consideration where they seat passengers with disabilities, and whether passengers seated near emergency exits are able to assist with emergency evacuation if required. Where a passenger is able to physically assist in their own evacuation in the case of an emergency, with prior notification, we can make arrangements for them and their wheelchair to be carried on board our aircraft. (We have found that where a passenger can stand with assistance, we can safely help them to negotiate the aircraft steps and seat them clear of the exits.) Carriage of passengers with a limited mobility in sightseeing aircraft presents unique challenges for both passengers and staff, and therefore please accept our sincerest apologies but it would be unlikely we are able to have you fly with us. Please feel free to contact us to discuss your circumstances and we can advise on an individual basis.
Are scenic flights safe?

Safety is our highest priority. Glenorchy Air operates under strict Civil Aviation Authority regulations, and every flight is conducted by highly trained commercial pilots. Weather conditions are carefully assessed before departure, and flights only operate when conditions are suitable for safe flying. To learn more about our commitment to safety, please visit our Safety page.

What if I have a medical condition or mobility concern?

If you have a medical condition, reduced mobility, or require special assistance, please contact us before booking. Our team will discuss your individual requirements and advise whether we can safely accommodate your needs.

Is smoking or vaping allowed?

In accordance with the Civil Aviation Act 2023, no person may smoke or vape while on any aircraft that is carrying passengers. Any person who commits an infringement offence is liable to an infringement fee of $500; or a fine imposed by a court not exceeding $2,500.

Cancellations + Refunds

What is your Cancellation Policy?
Our flights are weather-dependent. Pilots will make a weather check 1 hour before each scheduled departure. If we cannot fly due to adverse weather conditions, we will attempt to reschedule depending on the passenger’s schedule and flight availability. If we cannot reschedule, passengers will receive a 100% refund. If passengers choose to cancel a flight, fail to check in on time, or notify us of changes less than 24 hours prior to their departure, they will incur a 100% cancellation charge.
What happens if bad weather prevents my flight from going ahead?

All of our scenic flights are weather dependent. If conditions are unsuitable, we will first attempt to reschedule your flight to another available time. If we are unable to find a suitable alternative, you will receive a full refund in accordance with our cancellation policy.

Can I reschedule my booking?

If your travel plans change, please contact our team as soon as possible. Changes may be possible subject to availability. If we cancel your flight due to weather, we will always offer the option to reschedule before processing a refund.

How will I receive my refund?
Refunds will go back to the original form of payment in NZD. Glenorchy Air is not responsible for any exchange rate fluctuations.

The Glenorchy Air Difference

Why choose Glenorchy Air?

For over 30 years, Glenorchy Air has been helping visitors discover New Zealand’s most remarkable landscapes from the air. With guaranteed window seats, experienced local pilots, a modern fleet and a commitment to exceptional customer service, we provide a premium scenic flight experience from Queenstown to Milford Sound, Mt. Cook and Stewart Island.

How long has Glenorchy Air been operating?

Glenorchy Air has been flying visitors around New Zealand’s Southern Alps and Fiordland region for more than 30 years. Over that time, we have built a reputation for safety, professionalism and unforgettable scenic flight experiences.

What makes Glenorchy Air different from other scenic flight operators?

Glenorchy Air has been showcasing New Zealand’s most spectacular landscapes from the air for over 30 years. As the #1 rated tour in Queenstown on Tripadvisor, a Tripadvisor Best of the Best winner, and a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice recipient for more than 15 years, we’ve earned a reputation for delivering exceptional scenic flight experiences. Every flight includes a guaranteed window seat, experienced local pilots, personalised service, and purpose-built sightseeing aircraft designed to maximise your views. Whether you’re exploring Milford Sound, Mt Cook, Stewart Island or the sunrise over Mt. Aspiring, you’ll enjoy the kind of unforgettable experience that has earned us thousands of five-star reviews.

Why do all passengers receive a window seat?

We believe everyone should enjoy uninterrupted views throughout their flight. That’s why every seat on every Glenorchy Air aircraft is a window seat, ensuring you won’t miss the mountains, glaciers, lakes and fiords that make our scenic flights so memorable.

#1 Rated Tour + Activity
in Queenstown on Tripadvisor

Scenic Flights

Milford Sound

Mt. Cook

Stewart Island

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.

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Best of the Best 2024

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