Scenic flights at Milford Sound
Activities

Scenic Flights Milford Sound

Discover Milford Sound from the air for a unique and breathtaking perspective. Helicopters and airplanes offer you the most spectacular view of this legendary fjord.

A breathtaking perspective

A scenic flight over Milford Sound offers an absolutely unique perspective on this spectacular fjord. From the air, you'll discover the immensity of the mountains, the beauty of waterfalls plunging into turquoise water, and panoramas impossible to see from the ground. It's the ultimate experience to understand the grandeur and beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Whether by helicopter for a more intimate experience with landing possibilities, or by airplane for longer and more economical flights, each option offers unique advantages. Prices generally start from NZ$ 500 depending on duration and aircraft type.

Many companies offer flight + cruise combinations for a complete experience. To discover Milford Sound from the water, check out our page dedicated to cruises. The flight can also be taken departing from Queenstown.

Available scenic flight types

Experience an unforgettable moment by flying over Milford Sound by helicopter or airplane. Admire breathtaking landscapes and majestic waterfalls from the air.

📍 Departing from Queenstown

Scenic airplane flight from Queenstown

Discover Milford Sound from the air during an exceptional airplane scenic flight. Admire breathtaking landscapes and majestic waterfalls from the air.

Airplane scenic flight over Milford Sound
80 min
Flight duration
$520
Starting from
View offer and book
✓Free cancellation 24h before
✓Experienced pilot guide
✓Pick-up included
🚁 Premium experience

Helicopter flight above Mitre Peak

Discover Milford Sound from the air during an exceptional helicopter scenic flight. Admire breathtaking landscapes and majestic waterfalls from the air.

Helicopter scenic flight over Milford Sound
15 min
Flight duration
NZ$ 495
Starting from
View offer and book
✓Free cancellation 24h before
✓Experienced pilot guide
✓Headsets included
⛴️ Cruise included

Flight and cruise at Milford Sound

Enjoy an unforgettable experience with a scenic flight over Milford Sound, followed by a 2-hour cruise in the fjord.

Airplane scenic flight over Milford Sound
4h 30
Total duration
NZ$ 749
Starting from
View offer and book
✓Free cancellation 24h before
✓Pick-up included
✓Hot drinks offered

Why take a scenic flight over Milford Sound?

Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural sites, famous for its towering mountains, majestic waterfalls, and unique wildlife. However, due to its remote location and rugged terrain, much of its beauty remains inaccessible from the ground.

A scenic flight by helicopter or small plane allows you to discover these breathtaking landscapes from a completely different perspective. From the air, you can admire the immensity of the fjords, the dizzying height of the surrounding mountains, and the multitude of waterfalls cascading into the crystal-clear waters below.

In addition, these flights offer a unique opportunity to observe local wildlife — including seals, dolphins, and rare birds — in their natural habitat. It is an unforgettable experience that gives you a deeper understanding of the grandeur and beauty of Milford Sound.

Whether you choose a helicopter for a more intimate experience with the possibility of landing on glaciers or mountaintops, or a plane for longer and more affordable flights, each option offers unique advantages. Prices generally vary depending on the duration of the flight and the type of aircraft, with options suited to different budgets and preferences.
Ideally, you should still complement your flight with a cruise on the fjord.

Scenic flight over Milford Sound

Frequently Asked Questions about Scenic Flights

Find all the answers to your questions about Milford Sound scenic flights to best prepare your aerial experience.

Flights generally last between 15 minutes (helicopter) and 1 hour (airplane). 45-minute flights offer an excellent compromise to see the essentials: Mitre Peak, waterfalls, hanging glaciers and surrounding fjords. Longer flights usually depart from Queenstown.
The helicopter offers more flexibility with low-altitude flights, possible landings and a 360° view. The plane offers longer and more economical flights with a broader perspective. For a first experience, the helicopter is recommended. For tight budgets, the plane remains spectacular.
Weather conditions are crucial for scenic flights. In case of unfavorable weather (fog, strong wind, heavy rain), flights are postponed or canceled for safety. Most companies offer a full refund or free rescheduling. The Fiordland region has a changeable climate, plan for flexibility in your schedule.
Prices vary from NZ$ 500 to NZ$ 800 depending on the type of aircraft and duration. Airplane flights: NZ$ 200-350. Helicopter without landing: NZ$ 300-500. Helicopter with landing: NZ$ 450-800. Flight + cruise combinations: NZ$ 500-800. Booking online often allows you to get better rates.
Book as soon as possible, especially in high season (October-April). Morning slots (8am-10am) are most in demand because the weather is often more stable. In low season, you can sometimes book a few days in advance, but it's risky. Fiordland weather changes rapidly.
Flights mainly depart from Queenstown (1h45 flight), Te Anau (45 min flight), or directly from Milford Sound. From Queenstown, you'll also fly over the Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu. From Te Anau, the journey is shorter but less varied. Departures from Milford Sound are rare.
No, glacier landing is a premium option available only with certain helicopter flights. It's a supplement of $100-200 but the experience is unforgettable. You can walk on snow/ice, take unique photos and enjoy the silence of the mountains. Check carefully what is included when booking.
Take a window seat (specify when booking), avoid flash which reflects on windows, favor wide-angle lenses, shoot in burst mode for waterfalls. The helicopter offers better photo opportunities with its large openings. Plan extra batteries, cold can drain them quickly.

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