Scenic Flights Milford Sound
A hidden world lies within Fiordland National Park. The only way to see it is to take to the skies
Fiordland is a landscape of extremes. Its mighty towering peaks, powerful glaciers and dense forests which hide lakes and valleys are impossible to comprehend from the ground. A landscape once carved by glaciers during an ancient ice age preserves plants, rock types and native animals which hark back to the time of Gondwana.
A scenic flight is the only way to appreciate all that this UNESCO World Heritage area has to offer.
What do I see on a Milford Sound flight?
Milford Sound scenic flight options include helicopter and fixed-wing (small plane) trips. From above, the vast landscape of Fiordland comes into perspective. See evidence of glaciated landforms and the many valleys, lakes and fiords left behind. Fly from mountains to the sea and back again taking in the vast inlet of Milford Sound and its ancient stands of beech and podocarp trees.
And the photo opportunities are out of this world.
Milford Sound Scenic Flight Options - Helicopter or Fixed Wing
Mitre Peak Helicopter Scenic Flight - No Landing Operated by Milford Helicopters
Depart Milford Airport and track west along Milford Sound. Climb alongside Bowen Falls and Mitre Peak for great views of the fiord and its towering peaks before returning to Milford Airport. A beautiful way to see the lie of the land.
Mitre Peak Helicopter Scenic Flight - With Landing Operated by Milford Helicopters
From Milford Airport, track west along Milford Sound before climbing alongside Bowen Falls and Mitre Peak for incredible views of the fiord. A spectacular landing gives you the chance to take in the landscape and snap some incredible photos. Return to Milford Sound base.
Glaciers Galore Helicopter Flight Operated by Milford Helicopters
This once-in-a-lifetime flight takes off from the Milford Sound helipad to fly over Bowen Falls, Harrison's Cove and the sheer cliffs which dwarf the surrounding rivers. Then it’s the breathtaking Tutoko Glacier and a glacier landing if weather permits. The photos you will take from this vantage point of vast mountain ranges and a landscape carved by slow but ever-moving glacial shifts will become treasured mementos forever. Fly past the glaciated tops of Mt Tutoko, the highest peak in Fiordland National Park (2,723m). Return to Milford Sound via the lower Tutoko Valley.
Sutherland Falls Helicopter Flight Operated by Milford Helicopters
Take a breathtaking helicopter flight up the Arthur Valley, following the famous Milford Track and over the picturesque Lake Ada. Circle the Sutherland Falls, New Zealand's highest at 581m, before making an alpine landing above the shores of breathtaking Lake Quill. Return viewing the Mackinnon Pass and Joe's River. Incredible photo opportunities and an experience to remember forever.
The Grand Tour of Milford Helicopter Flight Operated by Milford Helicopters
The Grand Tour combines the three helicopter journeys above - Mitre Peak, Sutherland Falls and Glaciers Galore - in one spectacular scenic flight. An incredible experience taking in all that Milford has on offer from above. This journey includes two remote landings where you can get out of the helicopter and capture treasured photos. One not to be missed
Milford Sound Fly In / Fly Out - Fixed Wing Plane Operated by Glenorchy Air
Embark on an unforgettable journey and start or finish your Milford Sound adventure with a scenic flight over the dramatic Southern Alps.
Experience aerial views of incredible glaciers, endless snow-covered mountains, braided rivers and the highlight - Lake Quill and the Sutherland Falls. Your knowledgeable and highly skilled local pilot will provide interesting and informative commentary during this 40-minute flight of a lifetime. A truly breathtakingly beautiful scenic flight with a guaranteed window seat on our fixed wing aircraft as you soar above this World Heritage Area.
Need some help with scenic flights?
Talk to us about your dream Milford Sound scenic flight experience. Flights usually require a minimum of three passengers and will be confirmed on the day of departure. Our team can keep you updated on weather conditions and flight availability.
Ready to book your flight?
We can book your Milford Sound activities. For local advice on activities and making the most of your time at Milford Sound Lodge, contact our team today.
Looking for an accommodation and activity package? See our Experience Packages for exclusive deals.
What happens if weather prevents us from flying?
Milford Sound experiences heavy rainfall, high wind or a combination of the two, on an average of 200 days per year. This weather will impact flights. In many cases, flight operators have alternative options but in some cases, flights will be cancelled.
If you are planning to fly in and fly out of Milford Sound, we strongly recommend you are able to make alternative arrangements if your flight is not able to go ahead as scheduled. This may mean staying an extra night at Milford Sound Lodge or joining a coach trip to leave Milford Sound. We will assist you if this is the case.
If you are planning to drive yourself to Milford Sound Lodge and take a scenic flight while you are here, you may need to wait until you get here to confirm arrangements. Milford Sound's weather is highly changeable.
Our staff are more than happy to help you with your scenic flight bookings and can provide information on the latest weather conditions and flight availability.
