Queenstown (PG City)

The Flight Experience Queenstown is widely regarded as the "Adventure Capital of the World," and that reputation extends to the cockpit. Flying here requires high-precision mountain aviating. The city sits on the shores of the lightning-bolt-shaped Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by towering, jagged peaks that rise 5,000ft above the runway elevation.

Queenstown Airport (NZQN) offers one of the most technically demanding commercial approaches in the world. Whether flying an A320 or a bush plane, there is no straight-in approach. You must navigate a winding path through the alpine valleys, banking hard around mountains to line up with the runway at the last possible minute.

Visual Highlights

• The Remarkables: This jagged mountain range lives up to its name. The sharp, saw-toothed peaks rise abruptly from the eastern shore of the lake and are the primary visual barrier you must hug during the approach to Runway 05.

• Lake Wakatipu: The distinct "S" or lightning shape of the deep blue lake is your highway. Following the water is the only way to stay safe below the cloud base.

• Skyline Gondola: Perched on Bob’s Peak directly overlooking the town, you can see the gondola building and the luge tracks cut into the hillside. It marks the "turn-in" point for the town center.

• Coronet Peak: To the north, this bald-headed mountain is a famous ski field. In winter, the white trails are visible from miles away; in summer, it’s a golden-brown tussock landmark.

• The Shotover River: Known as the "Canyon of Gold," this river cuts a deep, winding gorge north of the airport. It is a favorite playground for helicopter simmers trying to replicate the famous jet boat rides.

Pilot’s Note: Fly the "RNP Approach" (Visually). The approach to Runway 05 is legendary. You fly down the Gibbston Valley or over Lake Wakatipu, and just before the airport, you must thread the needle between Deer Park Heights and the slope of The Remarkables. If you are flying a jet, your Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS) will likely be screaming "TERRAIN" at you—and for once, it’s normal!