FAQs

Where do we meet for our flight?

All flights depart from our Franz Josef base at 63 Cron Street, Franz Josef Glacier Township. This is your check-in location and meeting point before your scenic glacier experience begins. Our team will guide you through check-in and provide a safety briefing before departure.

How early should I arrive?

Please arrive 15–30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This allows enough time for check-in, passenger weighing, safety procedures, and your pre-flight briefing.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking as early as possible, particularly during summer and holiday periods when flights are in high demand. If you’re spending several days on the West Coast, consider booking early in your itinerary to provide flexibility if weather conditions require rescheduling.

What is your refund and cancellation policy?

We offer a full refund for cancellations made more than 24 hours before departure. If your flight is cancelled due to weather conditions and you’re unable to reschedule, you’ll receive a full refund.

Can I change my booking?

Yes. If you need to amend your booking, please contact our reservations team as soon as possible. Changes are subject to availability and notice periods.

Will we land on the glacier?

Yes. All our standard glacier scenic flights include a snow landing. You’ll have the opportunity to step out onto the snow, take photographs, and experience New Zealand’s glacier country from a unique perspective. Guests typically spend around 10–15 minutes on the snow.

How long does the experience take?

Flight durations vary depending on the experience selected. Most flights range from 20 to 40 minutes, including your glacier landing. We recommend allowing approximately one hour in total for check-in, briefing, flight time, and return.

Can I see both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers?

Yes. Several of our flight experiences showcase both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, offering exceptional views of the Southern Alps, Aoraki / Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. Weather conditions might influence flight routes and visibility.

How much time do we spend on the snow?

Most glacier landings allow approximately 10–15 minutes on the snow. This gives you plenty of time to take photos, enjoy the alpine environment and appreciate the remarkable scale of the glaciers.

Can children join a scenic flight?

Yes. Scenic flights are suitable for families and children of all ages. If you’re travelling with an infant or very young child, please speak with our reservations team before booking so we can advise on seating arrangements and safety requirements.

Can I take photos during the flight?

Absolutely. Your flight provides some of the most spectacular views on the West Coast, and you’re encouraged to bring your camera or phone to capture the glaciers, alpine peaks and surrounding landscapes.

What should I wear for the flight?

Conditions on the glacier are often significantly colder than in Franz Josef township. We recommend you wear:

• Warm layers
• A jacket or windbreaker
• Sunglasses (essential due to snow glare)
• Sturdy, closed-toe footwear
• Your camera or phone

Be sure to leave loose items, like scarfs and hats, in your car or with our team for safekeeping.

Can I choose my seat?

Unfortunately, no. Seats are allocated on the day of your flight based on passenger weights and aircraft balance requirements. This can only be assessed on the day. While we cannot guarantee specific seating positions, every seat offers excellent views and at Inflite Franz & Fox we continue to invest in aircraft that enables the best sightseeing experience.

Is there somewhere to park?

Yes. Parking is available at our Franz Josef base for guests driving themselves to check-in.

What should I bring with me?

We recommend bringing:

• A fully charged phone or camera
• Sunglasses
• Warm clothing
• Any personal medication you may require

Large bags, lose items and unnecessary belongings should be left in your vehicle or accommodation where possible.

Are there weight limits for passengers?

Yes. For aircraft safety and balance, there is generally an individual passenger weight limit of 116kg. If you exceed this weight, please contact our team before travelling as we may still be able to accommodate you depending on aircraft availability and seating arrangements. All passengers are weighed discreetly during check-in.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Weather conditions in glacier country can change quickly. Our pilots continuously monitor conditions and make safety-based decisions throughout the day. If flying conditions become unsuitable, we’ll work with you to reschedule your experience or provide a full refund where applicable. Final flight decisions may be made shortly before departure.

Can I bring a drone or a selfie stick?

No. Drones and selfie sticks are strictly prohibited on all flights and during glacier landings for safety reasons.

Are flights safe?

Safety is our highest priority. All flights are conducted by experienced commercial pilots and operated in accordance with New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority requirements. Flight decisions are always based on weather conditions, aircraft safety and operational requirements.

Still Have Questions? 

Our local team is here to help. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, please contact us before your flight and we’ll be happy to assist.