Locally owned and operated by the same family since 2000, Air Milford has been soaring above Fiordland and the Southern Lakes for over 30 years. With a flawless safety record and a deep-rooted commitment to people and place, this is a company flying with purpose.
Meet the Family Behind the Wings
What sets Air Milford apart isn’t just the spectacular landscapes they fly over, it’s the passionate people at the heart of their operation. They’re the only scenic flight company in New Zealand with three generations of pilots in the same family, two generations of aircraft engineers, and husband-and-wife directors all actively involved in the business. This legacy of hands-on expertise and passion translates into a gold-standard safety record, recognised as one of the best in the industry.
Founded in 1993 by local farmer Dave Bunn and later expanded by Hank and Kerrie Sproull, Air Milford has grown from a two-aircraft operation into a trusted aviation business with a fleet of Cessna Caravans. Today, with Hank’s son Antony Sproull as Chief Pilot and Operations Manager, the family’s hands-on approach continues to shine, blending years of expertise, strong values, and a shared passion for showcasing the beauty of our region.
A Lighter Footprint on the Land
Air Milford is leading the way in sustainable tourism. In 2022, they teamed up with sustainability experts WAO to measure their carbon footprint, and the results speak for themselves with the lowest carbon emissions of any scenic flight company in Queenstown.
But they’re not stopping there. Voluntarily offsetting their emissions with native tree planting throughout the Whakatipu Basin, supporting local charities like the Whakatipu Wilding Conifer Control Group, and sharing their values with visitors are just a few ways they’re taking responsibility for the environment we all care about.
They've recently donated $1,235 to the Whakatipu Reforestation Trust from voluntary $5 carbon offset donations collected from passengers.
They're continually building on their sustainability and regenerative practices, with the goal of becoming carbon neutral in the near future and ultimately become New Zealand’s most sustainable scenic flight company.
Giving Local Families a Lift
Air Milford’s commitment to community goes far beyond environmental initiatives. Through their partnership with Uplift In Kind, they’re offering something truly special: the chance for unwell or underprivileged Kiwi kids and their families to experience the magic of a scenic flight, giving them a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
So far, more than 420 children and their families have been lifted into the skies through Uplift in Kind, helping them escape their challenges and creating lifelong memories together.
“Coming into contact with Uplift In Kind has been a real blessing for our company,” says Chief Pilot and Operations Manager, Antony Sproull. “It’s a privilege to show so many children and their families this beautiful part of Aotearoa.”
A Call to Our Community
Whether you’re a Queenstown local or visiting the region, flying with Air Milford means supporting a business that puts people, place, and purpose at the heart of everything they do.
As Antony sums it up nicely, “Once we start, others will follow. It’s all about balance and taking real opportunities and chipping away at the small wins.”
So next time you’re looking to explore Milford Sound or venture above Queenstown’s unique landscapes, choose a flight that gives back to the land, and to the people who call this place home.
Information accurate at time of publication (2026).