Safety at Queenstown Air Charter

Safety is at the heart of every flight we operate. A comprehensive Safety Management System, highly trained pilots and a meticulously maintained modern fleet protect every private charter.
All Queenstown Air Charter flights are operated by Glenorchy Air from Queenstown International Airport.

A Proactive Approach to Aviation Safety

We consistently meet and exceed industry standards and regulatory requirements. Our Safety Management System is a living framework that identifies and mitigates risks before they arise.

Safety is always evolving. Our team embraces the latest advancements and a culture of openness, accountability and continuous improvement.

Five Layers of Charter Flight Safety

01

Safety Management System

A proactive Safety Management System identifies, assesses and mitigates risk across every part of the operation. Procedures are reviewed regularly and a culture of accountability runs through the whole team.

02

Pilot Training and Experience

Our pilots complete regular flight training, emergency drills and proficiency checks. Together they hold thousands of flight hours in New Zealand's demanding alpine conditions.

03

Aircraft Maintenance

Every aircraft is maintained by the engineering team at Performance Aviation in Wānaka. Strict maintenance schedules and detailed pre-flight inspections keep one of New Zealand's most modern fleets in exceptional condition.

04

Weather and Flight Planning

Each charter is planned around current weather and route conditions. The final decision to fly always rests with your pilot. The IFR-capable Tecnam P2012 adds flexibility when conditions change.

05

Passenger Safety Briefings

Every flight begins with a full safety briefing covering onboard equipment and emergency procedures. Safety cards in each seat pocket detail exits, equipment and procedures.

Safety Questions

Who maintains Queenstown Air Charter aircraft?

All aircraft are maintained by Performance Aviation's engineering team in Wānaka. Maintenance follows strict schedules and detailed safety checks.

What happens if the weather is unsuitable for my charter?

Your pilot assesses the weather before every departure. If conditions are unsuitable, our team will work with you to reschedule or adjust the route.

How experienced are Queenstown Air Charter pilots?

Our pilots hold thousands of combined flight hours in New Zealand's alpine conditions. They complete regular training, emergency drills and proficiency checks.