Air Safaris – Helicopter Flight – Mackenzie Explorer

Q: What if I can't take off because of bad weather?
A: If the flight is delayed or cancelled due to weather conditions, you do not need to pay the cancellation fee. You don't have to worry about the refund, because we only collect the money before confirming the take-off. We will do our best to reschedule the flight time suitable for your travel plan.
Q: How long in advance do I need to check in?
A: Please check in at our Tikapu Airport or Franz Josef Airport at least 15 minutes before the departure time of the plane.
Q: What should I take on the plane?
A: It is recommended to bring a sweater or jacket, sunglasses and a camera. The big bag can be left to our ground staff for safekeeping. For example, when landing by helicopter at a high altitude, guests need to wear warm shoes without showing their feet and appropriate warm clothes, such as gloves and hats, in winter.
Q: Is it cold on the plane?
A: All airplanes are equipped with heating. If the weather is cold, the pilot will turn on the heating. There are vents above all seats, and you can use them when you need them.
Q: What time is the best flight time?
A: Due to the changeable weather here, we recommend that you book the earliest flight you can choose to avoid missing the flight opportunity due to weather changes. The light at different times of the day will change the scenery outside the window, providing a variety of photo opportunities. Since we will fly over a large area and have many gentle turns, no matter which time you choose to fly, you will get first-class photo opportunities.
Q: Can guests with limited mobility participate?
A: Absolutely! Our different types of aircraft have different designs, which can meet the needs of all guests. We provide large mobile boarding ladders for all larger aircraft. The steps of the boarding ladders are low and have solid handrails. If necessary, boarding escalators can also be provided for smaller aircraft.
Q: Are flight sightseeing activities operated all year round?
A: We operate 364 days a year, depending on the weather conditions. We are only closed on December 25th, Christmas Day every year.
Q: Can we see snow all year round?
A: Yes! The higher mountains near the Southern Alps are covered with snow all year round, including Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, as well as all the higher mountains in the region at an altitude of more than 9,000 feet (2,743 meters). During the colder season and winter, the snow continues to the Mackenzie Basin near Lake Tikap and near the foothills of the west coast.
Q: How many seats are there on the plane?
A: Our modern fleet consists of aircraft of various sizes and can accommodate 7 to 15 passengers. We will choose the aircraft according to the number of passengers and flight requirements. Our Gippsland Airvans can accommodate up to 7 passengers, Cessna Grand Caravan can accommodate up to 13 passengers, and GAF Nomads can accommodate up to 15 passengers are accepted. All seats on the plane are separate window seats, ensuring maximum comfort and the best view. You can check more information about the fleet here.
Q: Can I choose my own seat?
Answer: The pilot will arrange the most suitable seat for each passenger according to the passenger requirements of each aircraft. Please rest assured that all seats are by the window, so you can enjoy the excellent view no matter where you sit.
Q: Are flight sightseeing activities suitable for pregnant women?
A: We suggest that you follow the doctor's advice. However, we also had pregnant women to participate in flight sightseeing activities in the past.