Air Safaris Franz Josef – Grand Traverse Scenic Flight
Updated: 1 st April 2026
Air Safaris Franz Josef – Grand Traverse Scenic Flight
Experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic scenic flights with Air Safaris from Franz Josef — the famous Grand Traverse.
This fixed-wing flight takes you from the West Coast across the Southern Alps to Aoraki Mt Cook, flying over Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier and vast alpine landscapes that can’t be seen from the ground.
If you’re looking for a scenic flight that showcases both coasts and New Zealand’s highest peaks in one unforgettable journey, the Grand Traverse is a must-do experience.
Grand Traverse Scenic Flight
✔ 200km scenic flight across two World Heritage National Parks
✔ Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier & Aoraki Mt Cook
✔ Cross the Southern Alps from coast to alpine
✔ Guaranteed window seat for every passenger
Highlights include:
- Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers flowing toward the rainforest
- Aoraki Mt Cook (3,754m), New Zealand’s highest mountain
- Glacial lakes, braided rivers and high country stations
- Vast snowfields and untouched alpine terrain
Franz Josef to Mt Cook Scenic Flight – The Grand Traverse Experience
Experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic scenic flights with Air Safaris from Franz Josef — the famous Grand Traverse.
This fixed-wing flight takes you across the Southern Alps, showcasing Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier and Aoraki Mt Cook in one unforgettable journey. It’s one of the only flights in New Zealand to cross from the West Coast to the high alpine heart of the South Island.
With guaranteed window seats and expert pilot commentary, this is a must-do experience for anyone wanting to see New Zealand’s glaciers and highest peaks from above.
Air Safaris Scenic Flight - Grand Traverse
Price: Adult $495 per person – Child $395 pp
Departs: Franz Josef
Flight Time: 50 minutes
What You’ll See on the Grand Traverse
Fly over a breathtaking landscape of glaciers, alpine peaks and remote valleys as you journey from the West Coast to Aoraki Mt Cook.
Highlights include:
- Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers flowing toward the rainforest
- Aoraki Mt Cook (3,754m), New Zealand’s highest mountain
- Glacial lakes, braided rivers and high country stations
- Vast snowfields and untouched alpine terrain
Your pilot provides engaging commentary throughout the flight, with multilingual in-flight guides available.
Why Choose Air Safaris from Franz Josef?
✔ One of NZ’s longest scenic flights (approx 200km)
✔ Unique coast-to-alps flight path
✔ Fixed-wing aircraft for smooth panoramic viewing
✔ Small group experience with expert pilots
"The flight of a lifetime, Simply stunning!"
Air Safaris Franz Josef – Grand Traverse FAQs
The Grand Traverse is a 50-minute scenic flight from Franz Josef that crosses the Southern Alps, showcasing Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier and Aoraki Mt Cook. Covering around 200km, it’s one of New Zealand’s most iconic flight experiences.
Highlights include flying over Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, Aoraki Mt Cook, glacial lakes, braided rivers, high country stations and vast alpine snowfields, all within two World Heritage National Parks.
You’ll see glaciers flowing toward the rainforest on the West Coast before crossing into the high alpine landscapes around Aoraki Mt Cook, including snowfields, remote valleys and glacial lakes.
Air Safaris offers one of the longest scenic flights in New Zealand, with a unique coast-to-alps route. Every passenger has a window seat, and experienced pilots provide informative commentary throughout the journey.t
The flight takes approximately 50 minutes and costs from $495 per adult and $395 per child, departing from Franz Josef.
Yes — the Grand Traverse is widely considered one of the best scenic flights in New Zealand, combining West Coast glaciers and Aoraki Mt Cook in one flight for maximum scenery and value.
Planning Your Scenic Flight from Franz Josef
Want to know if this flight is right for your trip? These quick guides cover what to expect, how the experience compares to other flight options, and whether the Grand Traverse Scenic Flight is worth the price.
Links:
- Is the Franz Josef to Mt Cook Scenic Flight Worth It?
Find out what you’ll see, typical costs, and whether this is one of the best scenic flights on the West Coast. - What to Expect on the Franz Josef to Mt Cook Scenic Flight
Learn about the route, flight time, views, aircraft experience, and weather considerations before you book. - Scenic Flight vs Helicopter in Franz Josef – Which Is Better?
Compare fixed-wing scenic flights and helicopter tours to decide which experience suits your trip best.