Since 1935, Queenstown Airport has transformed from a remote landing strip into the gateway to some of the most spectacular landscapes in New Zealand. Last week, Air Milford had the honour of hosting its 90th anniversary celebration right here at our Queenstown hangar.
It was a fantastic night that brought together aviation enthusiasts, tourism operators, and the local community. The evening celebrated connection and shared history, capturing the true spirit of aviation in the Southern Lakes region. Among the stories shared was one close to our heart, the pioneering of flightseeing to Milford Sound.
How Scenic Flights to Milford Sound Began
Our founder and CEO, Hank Sproull, recently spoke with the ZQN team to reflect on early aviation pioneers and beginnings into scenic flights to Milford Sound. This once-remote destination has become a must-do for travelers visiting Queenstown.
“The Milford Road was finished in 1952, and before that, the only way you could land at Milford was at low tide on a sandbar. Fred Lucas from Southern Scenic Air Services did that. When they put the road through, Fred went to the Ministry of Works and asked if they could use their equipment to make an airstrip. They graded and levelled one, and that’s when they pioneered Milford for tourism.”
That first airstrip opened the skies to a new era of exploration. Aircraft began flying in supplies and guests to the newly built hotel, especially important in the winter months when road access was often cut off. These early flights were essential to Milford Sound’s tourism and supply networks.
‘Those mountains, the rainbows, the clouds, the light – it’s breathtaking, Milford is now known as one of the eight wonders of the world. When tourists come to Queenstown, a must-do is to visit Milford Sound. It’s a vital part of the tourism network on this side of the island.’
Watch the full video on YouTube – ‘Bound for Milford Sound: the pioneers of flightseeing’
Honouring Queenstown’s Aviation History
As we celebrated 90 years of Queenstown Airport, it was a reminder that General Aviation has always been the heart of ZQN. Without the efforts of those early aviation pioneers, experiences like flightseeing to Milford Sound would not be possible today.
“Kia whakatōmuri te haere whakamua – I walk backwards into the future with my eyes fixed firmly on the past.”
Continuing the Legacy of Scenic Flights from Queenstown to Milford Sound
Today, Air Milford proudly continues that legacy first pioneered decades ago. We provide award-winning Milford Sound scenic flights from Queenstown, offering travellers unforgettable views of Fiordland’s mountains, waterfalls, and fjords.
With a family aviation heritage that spans three generations, we remain committed to honouring the past while delivering unforgettable experiences for the future.
To everyone who has contributed to the journey of Queenstown Airport, thank you! From all of us at Air Milford, it’s a privilege to share the skies with you – yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
