Are Helicopter Tours Worth It for Families and Kids? Safety, Age Limits and Tips

Creating a Safe and Secure Bubble for Your Family

As a parent, your number one question is always about safety. So let’s be very clear: reputable helicopter tours are exceptionally safe for families. This isn’t by accident; it’s by design. Here’s what makes the experience secure for even the youngest flyers.

• Pilots Who Are Family-Friendly Guides: These pilots fly families every single day. They are pros at making the flight smooth, pointing out things kids will love (like spotting animals or unique landmarks), and maintaining a calm, confident presence that puts everyone at ease.
• The Pre-Flight Briefing is for Everyone: The safety briefing isn’t just for adults. The staff are experts at communicating with children, showing them how to sit, how the seatbelts work, and what to expect in a way that is clear and not scary.
• Secure Harnesses, Not Just Seatbelts: Every passenger, including your child, will be secured with a multi-point safety harness. The ground crew is meticulous about ensuring every buckle is fastened correctly and that your child is snug and secure in their seat.
• Headsets That Protect and Connect: The provided headsets serve two crucial purposes for kids. First, they protect their sensitive ears from the loud noise of the rotors. Second, they allow them to hear the pilot’s commentary and your reassuring voice, making them feel connected and part of the adventure, not isolated by the noise.

Helicopter Tour Suitability by Age Group

Age Group	Recommended?	Why / Why Not
Infants (0–2 yrs)	❌ Usually not	Most operators don’t allow infants due to safety and headset limitations
Toddlers (2–4 yrs)	🚫 Rarely allowed	Some allow if they can sit with an adult, but noise may be overwhelming
Young Kids (5–7 yrs)	✅ With prep	Can enjoy short tours if comfortable with headsets and views
Older Kids (8–12)	✅ Highly recommended	Engaged by views, love the excitement, easier to follow safety instructions
Teens (13–17)	✅ Perfect age	Appreciate the experience and ideal for longer or more adventurous flights

Tip: Always check the minimum age policy before booking – it varies by destination and tour provider.

Most helicopter tour companies allow children to fly, but age and seating policies vary. Infants under 24 months can often ride on a parent’s lap without charge, though this depends on the aircraft type and operator policy. Children over two typically require their own seat and may be charged a full fare. Some tours set a minimum age of five or six due to safety equipment or flight conditions. Always review the terms on the company’s website or contact them before booking.

Best Tour Lengths for Families with Kids

Shorter flights are often ideal for families, especially those with young children. Tours that last 15 to 30 minutes provide an exciting experience without causing restlessness or fatigue. Longer flights, such as one-hour scenic tours, may be better suited for older kids and teens who can stay engaged throughout the ride. Choosing the right duration depends on your child’s age, attention span, and comfort level with flying.

From a Child’s-Eye View: Turning a Flight into a Core Memory

A helicopter tour can be more than just a ride; it can be a moment of pure wonder for a child. The key is to prepare them and engage them in a way that sparks their curiosity.

1. The Pre-Flight Hype-Up:
In the days leading up to the tour, build positive excitement.

• Show, Don’t Just Tell: Watch videos of helicopter tours of your destination together (our video previews are perfect for this!). Point out the landmarks they will see.
• Look at a Map: Show them the flight path on a map. Let them trace the route with their finger. This makes the abstract idea of flying feel like a real, understandable adventure.
• Play “Helicopter”: For younger kids, playing with a toy helicopter and talking about “going up, up, up to see the world!” can make the real thing feel familiar and fun.

2. In-Flight Engagement:
Turn the flight into an interactive game.

• The Ultimate “I Spy”: Give them a mission! “Can you find the big waterfall?” or “Let’s count how many boats we can see in the harbor!” This keeps them focused on the amazing views outside.
• Connect to Their Interests: If your child loves movies, point out the real-life locations from films like Jurassic Park (in Kauai) or superhero movies (in NYC). If they love animals, make a game of spotting wildlife in places like Alaska or the Grand Canyon.

3. The Post-Flight Celebration:
Solidify the memory after you land. Ask them, “What was your absolute favorite part?” Look at the photos you took together and let them show friends and family. This reinforces the experience as a special, positive event they’ll treasure.

Tips for Flying with Kids

To help ensure a smooth ride, plan ahead. Schedule the tour during a time of day when your child is well-rested and not hungry. Have them wear comfortable clothes and avoid giving them a large meal right before takeoff to minimize motion sickness. Many children are sensitive to noise, so be sure the provided headset fits securely and comfortably. Bringing a small toy or comfort item (if allowed) can also help put nervous kids at ease.

Family-Friendly Destinations for Helicopter Tours

Some destinations are especially well-suited for families. In Hawaii, short coastal flights offer beautiful views and smooth rides perfect for all ages. In New York City, skyline tours are short, exciting, and easy to fit into a day of sightseeing. The Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, and Orlando also offer family-oriented options with great scenery and short durations. Look for tours labeled as “family-friendly” or “beginner flights” when browsing booking platforms like Viator.

Destination	Tour Name / Type	Flight Time	Why It’s Great for Families
Las Vegas	Strip Night or Day Tour	10–15 mins	Short, exciting, low stress – perfect intro for kids
Oahu, Hawaii	Doors-On Scenic Circle	30–45 mins	Smooth ride, waterfalls & coastline, great for younger children
New York City	Harbor & Midtown Loop	12–20 mins	Iconic landmarks, short ride, minimal turbulence
Alaska	Glacier Landing Tour	40–50 mins	Scenic flight with glacier stop – unique and calm experience
Grand Canyon	South Rim Explorer	25–35 mins	Big views, easy flying, a fun intro to nature and geology for older kids
Kauai, Hawaii	Doors-On Island Flight	50–60 mins	Lush landscapes and gentle pacing – best for kids 8+

Justin’s Guide: My Family-Tested Tips for a Meltdown-Free Flight

I know that any “unforgettable” family experience can go sideways if you’re not prepared. A helicopter tour is a big investment of time, money, and excitement. Here are my foolproof tips to make sure it’s a home run for everyone.

1. The “Snack & Nap” Strategy is Non-Negotiable. Plan your flight time strategically around your child’s schedule. A tired, hungry child is not going to enjoy even the most amazing view. Book a morning flight after a good breakfast, or an early afternoon flight right after a nap. Avoid booking during their usual naptime at all costs.
2. Do a Headset “Test Run.” The headsets can feel a little strange to some kids. Before you go, let them try on a pair of over-ear headphones at home so they get used to the feeling. Explain that the helicopter has “special headphones so we can talk to the pilot!”
3. One Small, Secure Comfort Item. If your child has a favorite small stuffed animal (one that can be tucked into a pocket or held securely), it can be a great source of comfort. Just make sure it has no loose parts and clear it with the staff beforehand. Do not bring anything that can be easily dropped.
4. Doors-ON, Always. This is a simple, non-negotiable rule for flying with kids, especially younger ones. Doors-off tours are incredible for thrill-seekers and photographers, but for a family flight, the security and comfort of an enclosed cabin are essential for peace of mind.
5. Have a Post-Flight Treat Planned. End the experience on a high note. Plan to get ice cream, a special snack, or a small souvenir from the gift shop immediately after the flight. This gives them something to look forward to and serves as a celebration of their brave and exciting adventure.

Helicopter Tours for Families & Kids – FAQ

Question: Are helicopter tours safe for kids?
Answer: Yes. Helicopter tours are very safe for children, especially when operated by certified tour companies. All passengers receive seat belts and a full safety briefing before takeoff, and kids usually enjoy the excitement and views.

Question: What is the minimum age for kids to join a helicopter tour?
Answer: Most tours welcome children ages 2 and up, as long as they can sit independently with a seatbelt. Infants are generally not allowed on standard tours unless a private charter is arranged.

Question: Do kids need their own seat on a helicopter tour?
Answer: Yes. Any child over 24 months must have their own seat and ticket, regardless of size. Seating is assigned for weight balance and safety, so families may be split up unless it’s a private tour.

Question: Will my child enjoy the helicopter tour?
Answer: Most kids love it—especially older children who enjoy views of mountains, cities, waterfalls, or wildlife. Tours that are 20–30 minutes long are perfect for short attention spans and first-time fliers.

Question: Are helicopter tours too loud for kids?
Answer: Helicopters are loud, but all passengers—including children—are given noise-canceling headsets. These also allow them to hear the pilot’s commentary, which many kids find fun and educational.

Question: Can we all sit together as a family?
Answer: That depends on the helicopter size and weight distribution. Most aircraft fit 4 to 6 passengers, but seat assignments are based on balance. Families who want to sit together should consider booking a private tour.

Question: What type of helicopter tour is best for kids?
Answer: Choose shorter scenic flights with smooth air and daytime departures. Avoid tours with doors-off options or landings in rough terrain if you have young children.

Question: What should kids wear on a helicopter tour?
Answer: Dress them in comfortable, snug-fitting clothes with layers if it’s chilly. Avoid loose accessories like hats or scarves. Closed-toe shoes are best, especially for any tour with a landing.

Question: Are there any health or motion concerns for kids?
Answer: Most kids handle flights well. If your child is sensitive to motion, talk to your pediatrician about taking non-drowsy motion sickness medication before the flight.

Question: Are helicopter tours worth it for families?
Answer: Absolutely. Helicopter tours offer unforgettable views, fun for all ages, and a shared experience your family will talk about for years. Just be sure to pick a tour suited to your children’s age and comfort level.