ZK-IGY – Airbus AS350 B3

AS350 B3 | The Workhorse of Our Fleet

ZK-IGY, once affectionately known as the Bumblebee, has long been one of our hardest-working machines. Based out of Glenorchy and often spotted flying between there and Queenstown, this AS350 B3 built its reputation as a bright yellow blur, constantly on the move and always tackling something important.

For years, IGY proved itself as a true workhorse. With power, speed and remarkable agility, it took on a huge variety of commercial operations such as heavy lifting, long-lining, agricultural tasks, conservation support and pest control. It has carried fencing and building materials into remote high-country sites and handled every job with ease. Its compact frame and powerful engine made it ideal for tight, rugged terrain, especially in alpine environments where precision matters. The B3’s renowned performance in hot and high conditions helped establish IGY as a favourite throughout the Southern Lakes and Fiordland regions.

After a well-earned refresh, IGY has now re-emerged with a brand-new identity. The helicopter has retired its iconic yellow coat in favour of a sleek matte-black finish, a modern and understated evolution of a machine with a long history of hard work. It still carries the same grit, capability and can-do spirit of its Bumblebee days, now paired with a refined new presence for its next chapter.

Hardworking as ever and sharper than before, IGY is ready for whatever comes next.

Read more about the rest of our fleet here.