From happy customers

Loved by 44 million+
Manon DUPOUY
NZ

Manon

New Zealand
Sep 2025
5/5

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+1 more

It's a superb experience and well worth the detour to Nz. The road is as worthwhile as the boat ride. 100% recommended Great guide who explains the route very well.
Ning Ren
CN

Ning

China
Jul 2025
5/5

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RealNZ arranged taxi pickup from our hotel in Frankton as we required. Milford sound is really beautiful and worth the money. We also saw dolphins and seal.
SUMMER Wall Godman
US

Summer

United States
Aug 2025
5/5
Our pilot Jerod was great. We enjoyed flying over the beautiful mountains and sound. We signed up late but was told on the website that hotel pickup was included. When we paid we were told we had to meet at the office on shotovet. Not a long walk but not what was promised.
John Carter
AU

John

Australia
May 2025
5/5
Milford Sound Flights needed to cancel our booked morning trip, but managed to get us in on the afternoon trip. Much appreciated.
Zarir Buhariwala
AU

Zarir

Australia
Jun 2025
5/5
Lynette was a great tour guide and very knowledgeable about the history of the region and the stops and locations were wonderful.
Xiguo Jia
AU

Xiguo

Australia
Feb 2025
5/5
The view is awesome. The travel guide Jeff was excellent. He explained the history and all relevant information to Milford sound, which made our trip a remarkable experience.

More things to do

Cruise ship near waterfall in Milford Sound, New Zealand, with passengers on deck.

Milford Sound Cruises

Passengers enjoying views through glass roof on coach to Milford Sound.

Day trips to Milford Sound

Couple enjoying Milford Sound waterfall view on cruise deck.

Te Anau to Milford Sound

Hikers on Routeburn Track with mountains in Fiordland National Park.

Queenstown to Milford Sound

Things to know before you book your Milford Sound flight

  • Budget & value: Plane tours start from NZ$600 and includes guaranteed window seats + stable ride. Helicopter tours start from NZ$1,260 and include glacier landings + small-group size (4–6 passengers).

💡 Pro-tip: Adding a cruise (fly-cruise-fly) to your tour will cost you a bit more, but gives you the best overall tour of Milford, from both land and air!

  • Families & accessibility: Planes are more accessible, smoother, and better for children or elderly guests. Helicopters may not suit toddlers or those with mobility issues.
  • Weather: Flights are canceled about 25% of the time. Book early in your stay so you have room to rebook. Mornings are usually calmer.
  • Pro tip for summer months (Dec–Feb): Book at least 2–3 weeks in advance for prime time slots, especially morning departures. Refunds and rebooking are standard if flights are grounded.

Plane vs Helicopter: Which Milford Sound flight is right for you?

People preparing to board a small plane for a scenic flight to Milford Sound, New Zealand.

Plane flights

  • Duration: 35–45 min flyover, or 4–6 hrs with cruise
  • Group size: 8–12 passengers, every seat a window
  • Comfort: Smoother ride, stable in wind, easier boarding
  • Best for: Families, elderly travelers, time-pressed visitors
  • Why choose this: Most accessible and budget-friendly way to see Milford. Guaranteed window views, minimal turbulence, and ideal if you want a comfortable, family-suited flight.

Top picks:

Milford Sound Scenic Flyover & Cruise: Fixed-wing plane + classic fjord cruise

Milford Sound Fly-Cruise-Heli Tour: Scenic coach into Milford, fjord cruise, helicopter return

Couple by helicopter at Queenstown viewpoint overlooking mountains and river valley.

Helicopter flights

  • Duration: 1.5–2.5 hrs, often with glacier/alpine landings
  • Group size: 4–6 passengers, wide windows, pilot narration
  • Experience: Fly closer to peaks, hover by waterfalls, land on remote snowfields
  • Best for: Couples, photographers, adventure seekers
  • Why choose this: Most dramatic and intimate way to see Fiordland. Exclusive glacier landings and closer views you can’t get in a plane.

Top picks:

1.5 to 2-Hour Milford Sound Helicopter Tour: Shorter option with glacier landing

Extended 2.5-Hour Milford Sound Helicopter Tour: Longer route with multiple landings across Fiordland

4-Hour Milford Sound Helicopter Tour: Extended heli flight with alpine landing + 2-hr boutique fjord cruise

Things you’ll see on your Milford Sound scenic flight

Aerial view of Sutherland Falls cascading down lush green mountains in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand.

Fiordland National Park

Aerial views of glacier valleys and ancient rainforest.

Mitre Peak towering over Milford Sound with reflective waters and lush greenery.
Cruise boat near waterfall in Milford Sound's lush landscape.
Two helicopters on a snow-covered glacier in the Southern Alps, Queenstown, under a bright sun.
Plane flying over a lake with mountains during a scenic flight to Milford Sound.

What happens on the day: Your Milford Sound cruise and flight itinerary

Hotel pickup & check-in

Your day begins with a transfer from your Queenstown accommodation to the airport. Meet your pilot, check in, and board a small aircraft fitted with panoramic windows for sightseeing.

Scenic flight to Milford

Take off over Central Otago’s rugged hills and gold-mining valleys, then follow the S-shaped curve of Lake Wakatipu beneath the Remarkables. Fly past the glaciers and snow-capped peaks of Mt Aspiring National Park, before crossing the vast wilderness of Fiordland National Park, dotted with alpine lakes and waterfalls.

Milford Sound cruise

Land at Milford and board your vessel for a 2-hour fjord cruise. Sail beneath the sheer cliffs of Mitre Peak, feel the spray of Stirling Falls, and keep watch for dolphins, fur seals, and Fiordland penguins. Relax with complimentary tea and coffee on board, while your skipper and crew share stories of the fjord’s geology, history, and wildlife.

Return flight to Queenstown (or coach transfers)

Reboard your aircraft for a return flight via a different route (weather permitting), giving you a new perspective over Fiordland and the Southern Alps. Arrive back in Queenstown, where hotel transfers complete your adventure.

Plan your Milford Sound flight tour

Helicopter flying over glacier during Milford Sound FlyCruiseHeli Tour in Queenstown, New Zealand.
  • Departure points: All flights leave from Queenstown Airport or Heliport.
  • Check-in: Arrive 30 minutes before departure for a safety briefing and seat assignment.
  • Flight conditions: Mornings generally offer calmer skies and better visibility. Afternoon flights are possible but slightly more weather-dependent.
  • Total duration:
    • Scenic plane + cruise: 4–5 hrs
    • Fly-cruise-heli combo: 5–6 hrs
    • Helicopter tours: 1.5–2.5 hrs
    • Extended heli + cruise: 4 hrs
Best month and time of day for flights
complimentary tea, coffee
  • Flight-only tours: No meals included.
  • Flight + cruise: Complimentary tea/coffee onboard cruise; premium options may include buffet or lunch upgrades.
  • Helicopter tours: No meals, but feature multiple alpine/glacier stops for photo opportunities.

💡 Pro tip: If your tour doesn’t include meals, you’re welcome to bring your own snacks or a packed lunch. It’s the easiest way to stay energized and enjoy the experience without worrying about food stops.

Things to do in Milford Sound
Modern aircraft
  • Planes: Easier boarding, more stable ride, recommended for families with kids, elderly, and travelers with mild mobility needs.
  • Helicopters: Require climbing in/out, not ideal for toddlers or limited mobility. Seating is weight-balanced and sometimes restrictive.
  • Cruise add-ons: Most large cruise vessels used in combos are stroller- and wheelchair-friendly, with restrooms and indoor seating.
Plan your visit
Tourists enjoying a guided tour at Milford Sound with scenic fjord backdrop.
  • Flights depend on visibility, wind, and cloud ceiling; cancellations happen ~20–30% of the time.
  • Refunds/rebooking: Full refund or rebooking offered if flights can’t depart.
  • Experienced pilots adapt routes in real-time to conditions, sometimes rerouting via alternate valleys or glaciers.
  • Aircraft standards: All planes and helicopters are maintained under strict Civil Aviation Authority regulations in New Zealand.
  • Seating & balance: Seating is assigned by the pilot for weight balance and safety, families usually still sit together.
  • Glacier landings (heli tours): Passengers are escorted out, and landings are only attempted in safe weather conditions. Pilots will skip a landing if conditions change.
Packing suitcase with clothes and travel essentials for a trip to London in February.
  • Essentials: Booking confirmation + photo ID, camera/phone + power bank.
  • Clothing: Warm layers + windproof jacket; sturdy shoes for glacier landings.
  • Health & comfort: Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm; motion sickness tablets if prone.
  • Luggage: Small day bag only; large bags not permitted on flights.
  • Meals: Bring light snacks for plane or heli-only tours. Cruise add-ons provide complimentary tea/coffee; some premium options include lunch.
Magnifying glass over the word "rules" on a blue background.
  • Luggage: Large bags are not permitted — bring a small day pack only.
  • Onboard rules: No smoking, vaping, or alcohol onboard aircraft. Follow pilot instructions at all times.
  • Glacier landings: Stay within marked safe zones; listen to pilot guidance before stepping out.
  • Phones & cameras: Allowed, but switch to airplane mode; always secure devices before doors open.
  • Motion sickness: Take tablets if prone — planes are smoother than helicopters.
  • Best time to fly: Morning departures usually mean calmer skies + better light for photos.
  • Photography tip: Wear dark clothing to reduce window reflections in photos.

Frequently Asked Questions About Milford Sound Scenic Flight Tour

How much does a Milford Sound Scenic Flight tour cost?

Tours start from NZ$529 and include round-trip transfers with hotel pick-ups/drop-offs, cruises, and nature walks.

Which is the best Milford Sound Scenic Flight tour?

If you prefer a shorter tour with a focus on aerial views, choose the From Queenstown: Scenic Flyover & Milford Sound Cruise for a 4.5 to 8-hour adventure.
If you have more time and want a comprehensive experience, including nature walks, opt for the Round Trip Flyover & Milford Sound Nature Walk for a 12-hour excursion.
Ultimately, the best tour depends on your schedule, interests, and the level of adventure you're seeking. Both options promise breathtaking views and a memorable Milford Sound experience.

Why should I opt for a Milford Sound Scenic Flight tour and what does it include?

Opting for a Milford Sound flight tour means unlocking unparalleled views with the assurance of a guaranteed window seat, live pilot commentary, hotel pick-ups/drop-offs, and transfers, enriching your journey, and the chance to explore hidden gems that make Milford Sound truly exceptional. It's not just a tour; it's an immersive adventure designed for comfort, convenience, and an unforgettable experience above the stunning landscapes of Milford Sound.

How long does a Milford Sound Scenic Flight tour last?

The scenic flight between Queenstown and Milford Sound is approximately 35–40 minutes each way, weather‑dependent. Your tour can go up to 12 hours depending on your itinerary, inclusions, and additional experiences.

What parts of the Milford Sound can I access with a Milford Sound Scenic Flight tour?

A Milford Sound Scenic Flight Tour grants exclusive access to renowned landmarks like Earnslaw Burn Glacier, Mitre Peak, Olivine Ice Plateau, Lake Quill, Sutherland Falls, Dart-Rees Valley's Glacier-Fed Braided Rivers, the rugged West Coast, the Tasman Sea, and the UNESCO gem of Fiordland National Park. It's not just a tour; it's a journey into the heart of Milford Sound's spectacular landscapes.

What is the cancellation policy for a Milford Sound Scenic Flight tour?

You can cancel your Milford Sound flight tickets and get a full refund 24 hours before the tour begins.

Are Milford Sound Scenic Flight tours suitable for children?

Milford Sound Scenic Flight tours are not just suitable but are tailored to enhance the travel experience for children. With safety measures and child-friendly amenities like child/booster seats and baby earmuffs, these tours offer a memorable and educational adventure for families.

Are Milford Sound scenic flight tours accessibility-friendly?

Queenstown to Milford Sound flights are indeed accessibility-friendly, ensuring that all passengers, including those with mobility needs, can enjoy the stunning landscapes of Milford Sound in comfort and safety.

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