Queenstown’s aviation community is marking a notable milestone this week, celebrating 70 years since the official proving flight at Milford Sound | Piopiotahi opened one of the world’s most iconic destinations to flightseeing.
A special event this evening [Thursday, 9 July 2026], will bring together veteran pilots and engineers, current aviation operators, and local dignitaries to honour the pioneers of one of New Zealand’s most celebrated tourism experiences.
The proving flight took place on 10 July 1956 using the de Havilland 89 Dominie ZK-AKY ‘Tui’, which demonstrated the suitability of the Milford Sound airstrip for regular air services. Now part of the Croydon Aviation Heritage Centre collection, the vintage aircraft remains airworthy.
Over the past seven decades, the route has become an extraordinary tourism drawcard, attracting visitors from around the world.
Air Milford founder Hank Sproull said thousands of people a year visited Milford Sound by air.
“When visitors come to Queenstown, it’s the first thing on their ‘must-do’ list.
“It’s an amazing place to fly. The nature you see – with those incredible mountains, rainbows, cloud, and light – is breathtaking.”
Queenstown Airport is supporting the commemoration. Chief Executive Shane O’Hare said it was a great opportunity to recognise the flightseeing sector’s significant contribution to the nation’s tourism economy and visitor experience.
“Developing an airstrip at Milford Sound was a bold move that made one of the most spectacular places on Earth more accessible. We’re proud to celebrate those who led the way.”
Glenorchy Air Chief Executive James Stokes, who chairs the Queenstown Milford Users Group (QMUG), which represents commercial operators flying in the region, said it was also timely to look ahead.
“Our sector has grown from a handful of pioneers into a world-class aviation offering. This celebration honours our heritage while recognising the responsibility we have to continue innovating and operating sustainably into the future.”
The aerodrome is owned by the Ministry of Transport on behalf of the Crown and managed by Invercargill Airport. There were 8,214 landings there in the In the 2025/26 year.
