Ultimate guide to helicopter tours
Helicopter tours in Americas
New York
There are three ways to see New York – by road, water, and air. The best way, of course, is exploring New York from a helicopter and feeling the adrenalin rush. From high up, you can see all the major New York City landmarks, not to mention coming face to face with the Statue of Liberty. New York residents have an issue with these helicopter tours – so it is best to go on one before they are stopped.
# Manhattan helicopter tours
# Cheap helicopter tours in New York
# Grand Island helicopter tour in New York
# The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City
# Taste of NYC Helicopter tour
# Ultimate Manhattan sightseeing
# Cost of New York helicopter tours
# City Lights Skyline Experience
# Romantic helicopter tour in New York
# Helicopter tours over Central Park
# Private helicopter tours in New York
# Cost of Niagara Falls helicopter tour
Grand Canyon
A helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon is a great adrenalin rush everyone must experience at least once in their lifetime. You soar through the scenic desert skies and experience from above the steep-sided Canyon carved by the Colorado River in Arizona.
# Helicopter tours over South Rim
# Helicopter tours over West Rim
# From Las Vegas to Grand Canyon by chopper
# Aerial tour of Grand Canyon at sunset
# Trips to Hoover Dam by chopper
Hawaii
Since most of the natural landmarks in Hawaii are inaccessible by land, a helicopter tour of Hawaii is the best way to see the lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, white-sand and black-sand beaches, volcanic mountains, craters, and massive sea-cliffs.
# Helicopter tours in Big Island
# Helicopter tours over Kauai
# Helicopter tours of Oahu Island
# Aerial tours of Maui
# Helicopter tours from Honolulu
# Helicopter tours from Kona
# Chopper tours from Lihue
Toronto
Toronto, the vibrant and multicultural metropolis of Canada, offers a multitude of activities and attractions for everyone. Taking a helicopter ride in Toronto provides a unique and breathtaking perspective of the city, compelling you to appreciate its vastness and beauty.
# Nighttime helicopter tour of Toronto
# Helicopter tour from Toronto to Niagara Falls
# Romantic helicopter tour in Toronto
# Niagara Falls helicopter tour from Ontario
# Cost of Niagara Falls helicopter tour
Los Angeles
A holiday in the land of celebrities can’t be complete without a helicopter tour of Los Angeles. There is so much to see in LA – the walk of fame, the Universal Studios, the Hollywood Boulevard, the Sunset Strip, the Hollywood Sign, etc., and they all look better from high up in the air.
Alaska
Alaska is a land of rugged wilderness, towering mountains, vast glaciers, and untamed beauty. A helicopter tour of Alaska takes you over immense ice fields, glaciers, turquoise rivers, fjords, valleys, sheer cliffs, dense forests, and much more.
# Alaska glacier heli-hike tours
# Helicopter tours over Anchorage, Alaska
# Dog sled Helicopter Tours in Alaska
# Helicopter tours over Denali, Alaska
# Helicopter Tours in Ketchikan, Alaska
# Helicopter tours in Seward, Alaska
San Francisco
San Francisco offers fantastic vistas for those who are willing to strap on the seatbelt and go up on a helicopter tour. To best explore landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the Bay Area, book a helicopter tour of San Francisco.
Las Vegas
There are many ways to explore Las Vegas – by walk, car, or bus. However, the best way is to see Las Vegas from a helicopter, high up in the sky. Tourists love to take off after dark and enjoy the glow of neon lights on the Las Vegas Strip.
Miami
There is so much to see in Miami – Miami Beach, Art Deco Historic District, South Beach, Everglades National Park, Bayside Marketplace, Key Biscayne, etc. But there is a bigger thrill in seeing all of this from the air. Go ahead, book a helicopter tour over Miami.
Seattle
Even though it has helicopter tours, Seattle’s seaplane tours are more popular. Besides the city of Seattle, these seaplane tours also help you explore the majestic Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges and breathtaking Mt. Rainier.
Nashville
Nashville, Tennessee, has one of the most gorgeous skylines in the country. Locals and visitors alike love to book helicopter tours over Nashville to go up in the sky and get a bird’s eye perspective of the Music City.
Orlando
There are many ways to explore it, but a helicopter tour of Orlando is the best way to see the City of Theme Parks. Tourists are equally split on what is better – a daytime or a night time helicopter tour of Orlando‘s Theme Parks.
Sedona
There are many ways to explore the incredible desert beauty of Sedona, Arizona. Tourists can take a hike, drive a car around, or book a bus tour, but a helicopter tour of Sedona is the best way to see the red rock landscape.
Baltimore
Baltimore offers fantastic vistas for those who are willing to strap on the seatbelt and go up on a helicopter tour. If you want to experience some of the best bird’s-eye views of the city, look no further than a helicopter tour over Baltimore.
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is cobalt blue and is widely considered one of the world’s most beautiful places. This natural attraction gets around twenty million tourists annually, some of whom decide to take off in a helicopter to see Lake Tahoe in all its beauty.
Fort Lauderdale
On a helicopter tour of Fort Lauderdale, visitors can see major landmarks, beaches, wildlife in the water, and the skyline of Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Key Biscayne from a different perspective. All this besides the adrenalin rush.
Portland
Portland is Oregon’s largest city and rests on the Columbia and Willamette rivers, in the shadow of snow-capped Mount Hood. As a result, aerial tours are pretty popular in Portland. Depending on what you want to see, book a helicopter or an airplane tour in Portland.
Kauai, Hawaii
More than 70% of the Kauai Island is inaccessible by road, and as luck would have it, it is these parts where the most stunning of the sights exist. No wonder a helicopter tour of Kauai is the best way to see the Hawaiin island, also known as the ‘Garden Isle.’
Chicago
Chicago is known for its magnificent buildings – its skyscrapers have helped shape American architecture. If you want to enjoy the aerial views and fascinating skyline of the Windy City, it is best to book a helicopter tour of Chicago.
Vancouver
Seaplane flights are the best way to explore the magnificent mountains and vast shoreline surrounding the magnificent Canadian city. Many budget-friendly Seaplane tours over Vancouver are available for those who want to fly over the city.
Quebec City
The helicopter tour of Quebec City is a unique opportunity to witness the historic beauty and natural elegance of this Canadian gem from the skies. The helicopter tour varies in duration, often ranging from 15 to 30 minutes.
Kissimmee
The helicopter tour of Kissimmee is a unique opportunity to witness the beauty and excitement of Central Florida from an aerial point. A helicopter tour in Kissimmee is not just about sightseeing; it’s an adventure that offers a unique perspective of central Florida.
New Jersey
The helicopter tour of New Jersey is an exhilarating adventure that offers an exclusive perspective of New Jersey’s rich tapestry, from its bustling urban centers to the serene beauty of its coastal and rural areas.
Savannah
The helicopter tour of Savannah offers an unparalleled view of Savannah’s historic streets, lush green parks, and meandering rivers, all from the unique vantage point of the sky.
Mexico City
The helicopter tour of Mexico City invites you to witness the sprawling cityscape, encompassing ancient landmarks, modern skyscrapers, and lush green spaces, all from the comfort of a helicopter.
Boston
The helicopter tour of Boston provides an extraordinary way to experience one of America’s oldest cities, showcasing its iconic landmarks and scenic beauty from above.
Helicopter tours in Rest of the World
Dubai
Dubai, a city flaunting its opulent skyline, man-made marvels, and vibrant culture, gleams with luxury and innovation. A Dubai helicopter tour is an unparalleled activity allowing you to experience this modern wonderland.
# Private helicopter tours in Dubai
# Romantic helicopter tours in Dubai
Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro helicopter tours are the best way to explore the city in all its Brazilian glory where you can witness its world-famous landmarks, enchanting landscapes, and picturesque vistas. Pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and iconic landmarks like Christ the Redeemer come alive as you view them from an aerial angle.
Reykjavik
Reykjavik helicopter tours fulfills your desire to explore the ethereal Icelandic landscapes, diverse geological features, and mesmerizing natural wonders. Get ready to be washed over by a wave of exhilaration as you experience the true essence of the city.
Uluru
Ayers Rock (locally called Uluru) is an iconic monolith in the heart of Australia. When you book a helicopter tour of Ayers Rock, you see this tourist attraction, a geological wonder, cultural landmark, and sacred place from the comfort of your seat.
Udaipur
Udaipur is also known as the City of Lakes and is one of India’s most beautiful and romantic cities. A helicopter tour of Udaipur is the best way to explore this colorful city’s stunning lakes, temples, forts, and palaces and make your visit memorable.
Cape Town
Tourists who have been on a helicopter ride in Cape Town believe that the city’s terrain is perfect for a helicopter ride. Within 20 minutes, one can take off and experience some of the world’s most spectacular mountains, coastline, beaches, and the city’s skyline.
Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires, Argentina’s bustling capital, is a blend of historical charm and modern sophistication. A helicopter tour in Buenos Aires offers a unique vantage point to view its sprawling parks, elegant boulevards, and the shimmering Rio de la Plata.
Sao Paulo
Experience the vibrant city of São Paulo from an entirely new perspective with a helicopter tour of São Paulo. These tours offer a unique opportunity to soar above Brazil’s bustling metropolis, providing breathtaking views of its diverse architecture, sprawling parks, and iconic landmarks.
Santiago
Discover Santiago from an exhilarating perspective with a helicopter tour in Santiago, an adventure that offers a unique and breathtaking view of this vibrant Chilean capital. As you soar above the city, you’ll gain a bird’s-eye view of Santiago’s diverse landscape, blending modern urban structures with stunning natural backdrops.
Helicopter tours in Europe
Vienna
The helicopter tour of Vienna offers a unique perspective of Austria’s historic capital. These tours provide a bird’s-eye view of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks, including the majestic Schönbrunn Palace, the towering St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the tranquil Danube River.
Florence
The helicopter tour of Florence offers a harmonious blend of urban beauty and rural charm, showcasing the rolling hills and vineyards surrounding the city. These helicopter tours cater to a range of preferences, from brief, scenic flights to longer excursions.
London
Embark on an unforgettable journey above one of the world’s most iconic cities with a helicopter tour of London. This exhilarating experience offers a unique perspective on London’s historic landmarks and breathtaking scenery.
Porto
The helicopter tour of Porto offers a unique perspective of Porto’s diverse landscapes, seamlessly blending modern urban structures with ancient architecture, all tied together by the majestic Douro River.
Venice
The helicopter tour of Venice offers amazing perspective of the famed city, renowned for its intricate waterways, historic architecture, and romantic ambiance. The helicopter tour in Venice typically begins with a comfortable and brief transit from the main city to the nearby helipad.
Bern
The helicopter tour of Bern offers the stunning beauty of Switzerland from a unique vantage point. This exhilarating experience takes you soaring over Bern’s iconic landmarks, offering unmatched views of its historical architecture blended with lush, natural landscapes.
Lisbon
Lisbon helicopter tours take you over the capital city of Portugal, a place that seamlessly combines a rich historical past with modern urban vibrance. Stunning architecture, gorgeous landscapes, and captivating culture have made the city one of the top destinations for travelers across the world.
Barcelona
Popular for its stunning European architecture, Mediterranean coastline, and one of the top football clubs in the world called FC Barcelona, Barcelona with its bustling streets and iconic landmarks can be explored in a unique way- a Barcelona helicopter tour.
Helsinki
Discover Helsinki like never before with an exhilarating helicopter tour. Offering a bird’s-eye view of Finland’s vibrant capital, a helicopter tour of Helsinki presents a unique perspective on the city’s blend of modern architecture and natural beauty.
Helicopter tours in New Zealand
Franz Josef Glacier
Franz Josef and Fox glaciers in New Zealand are among the most beautiful and accessible glaciers in the world. A helicopter tour of these glaciers is one of the best ways to explore them. These tours offer a unique perspective, combining the thrill of flight with the breathtaking views of the frozen wilderness below.
Milford Sound
Milford Sound in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park is a breathtaking fiord with towering peaks, dark waters, lush cliffs, and abundant wildlife. Most visitors explore it on a 2-hour cruise, while some opt for a helicopter ride to take in the stunning aerial views.
Queenstown
Queenstown is known as ‘Adventure Capital of the World’ and attracts more than 3 million tourists every year. With places such as Milford Sound, Franz Josef, Fox Glacier, Tasman Glacier, Mount Cook, Middle-Earth Waterfalls, Mt. Tutoko, Lake Wakatipu and more to see, helicopter trips are a hot choice.
Helicopter tours in Japan
Tokyo
Tokyo’s skyscrapers, such as Tokyo Skytree, Shibuya Sky, Tokyo Tower, Roppongi Hills, etc., have observatories on the top floors. But nothing beats the unique perspective one gets when you take off on a helicopter and see Tokyo from above.
Yokohama
A helicopter tour over Yokohama is the best way to see the city’s landmarks. During an ariel tour, some of the must-sees are Minatomirai, Red Brick Warehouse, the bay area, the bay bridge, Yokohama Chinatown, Yokohama Stadium, Ferris Wheel, etc.
Osaka
Osaka is home to Osaka Bay’s shimmering waters and other landmarks such as Osaka Castle, the Bay Area Course, Kaiyukan, Cosmo Tower, etc. If you plan a helicopter tour of Osaka at night, you can see the sparking lights and its fantastic neon signs.
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that before booking a helicopter tour you are bound to have lots of questions.
Helicopter tours are short flights, lasting between 7 minutes to 35 minutes (sometimes more!), to see cities, tourist attractions, wildlife, or mountains from the top. This bird’s eye experience is an opportunity to enjoy the thrill of your life and hence is only for the adventurous. Sometimes these helicopter trips include a landing, in the middle of a desert, winery, snow, etc.
Helicopter tours offer a unique way to explore a destination, providing aerial views that can’t be matched by any other type of sightseeing. If you are okay with the short burst of adrenalin rush, with a high cost, they are worth it.
Yes, kids of all ages can accompany you on helicopter tours. Usually, children aged three years or younger must be seated on the lap of an adult. Kids older than three years must buy a tour ticket and sit in their seats.
Before take-off, the pilot takes the final call taking into consideration three parameters – wind speed, visibility, and cloud height. There may be other variables as well, which help him/her decide. If the tour gets canceled, the heli tour company leaves the decision to the tourists – they can either refund or accept another tour day.
Helicopters are more agile and have a small turning radius, which makes them perfect for aerial viewing. Since choppers can slow down and sometimes even hover, tourists get to pace their sightseeing, and also take great photos. All of this isn’t possible with fixed‐wing airplanes.
Most of the tourist helicopters are either four-seaters or six-seaters, with one seat next to the pilot in the front. All these seats offer excellent views.
Different choppers have different seating arrangements. Four seater helicopters have two seats in the front row and two in the back, all facing forward. One of these seats is taken by the pilot. Five seater helicopters usually have three seats in the second row. Seven seater helicopters can have two configurations. They can have two seats in the front, two seats in the rear facing backward and three seats in the rear facing forward. Or they can have three front seats and four back seats, all of them facing forward in a stadium style seating arrangement.
The seating in the helicopter gets determined by the weights of all passengers traveling in the bird. You can request a specific seat, but if it doesn’t fit the pilot’s calculations of weight balance, you may not get it.
During a helicopter tour, the seating arrangement gets determined by the weights of individual passengers. This optimum weight distribution helps the pilot keep the helicopter balanced during the flight. That is why you are requested to provide weights of all the passengers while booking helicopter tour tickets.
Some of the helicopters have an onboard narration, but it is not always guaranteed. However, experienced pilots double up as guides, and you can ask them questions. You will be advised not to disturb the pilot with questions during the take-off and landing phases of the tour.
The total weight per seat gets determined by the type of helicopter you will be flying. For bigger helicopters, passengers may not exceed 159 Kgs (350 lbs), and for smaller helicopters, the limit is 113 Kgs (250 lbs). When a tourist is above the weight limit, some chopper tour operators charge a fee for an additional comfort seat. This additional fee depends on the price of the tour you booked. As per FAA regulations, all passengers and their carry-on items get weighed before take off.
Different kinds of helicopter tours have different durations. The shortest tours are 7 minutes long, where you take off, see a city from the top and get back down. In bigger cities such as New York, Paris, London, etc. such aerial city sightseeing tours can also last 30 to 45 minutes. Helicopter tours, which include a landing and a quick picnic, can last easily over two hours.
Helicopters tours are very safe, and that is why they are much in demand. But having said that, crashes do happen. The fatality rate in helicopter crashes is 1.3 deaths per 100,000 flight hours, versus 1.4 deaths for passenger aircraft. If you take a flight from one place to another, you can take a helicopter tour as well.
All the times are equally suitable for a heli tour and have their advantages and disadvantages. Some tourists prefer to fly in the morning because it frees up the rest of the day for the next activity. Others prefer helicopter tours during sunset, for the stunning visuals it offers. Some others opt for night helicopter tours so that they get to see the city glittering.
We feel helicopters are much safer than smaller planes. All helicopters can autorotate successfully to the ground in an emergency and land in a small area, but an airplane will need a runway. A helicopter flies closer to the ground (between 500 ft and 1000 ft above the ground), and during an emergency, it can get to the ground faster. Unlike smaller airplanes, helicopters are built for excellent maneuverability, because they get sent on dangerous missions.
Tourist helicopters are photograph friendly, and all window seats provide good visibility.Having taken the tourists on umpteen number of tours, the pilots are also experts in selecting flight paths, which help passengers on both sides of the heli to same stunning views.
Some operators offer special flights just for professional photographers.
Helicopters can change direction suddenly, and they also have a swooping motion, which can make some people sick — especially those who are prone to motion sickness. However, there are three precautions you can take to have a good helicopter ride don’t book the trip on a rough weather day, take motion sickness medicine before the tour, sit in the front of the helicopter.
Pregnant women must avoid helicopter tours during the first three months of pregnancy and after the 36th week. However, we highly recommend you consult your doctor before booking a helicopter tour.
A heli tour is a beautiful experience, and everybody must go at least once in their lifetime. But it is also essential that you take care of yourself and that is why we don’t recommend you going on a chopper if you are afraid of heights or closed spaces.
Yes, people with mobility issues can also go up on a helicopter tour. Just that while booking your heli tour tickets, you need to mention this under the ‘Any special requests’ field. The tour operator’s staff will help you get in and out of the helicopter and also handle your wheelchair when you are high up in the air.