Best Helicopter Tour Guides & Tips
Helicopterstour.com
Preparing for Your Helicopter Tour
Before your tour begins, you will typically arrive at the heliport or tour terminal 30 to 45 minutes early. This allows time for check-in, ID verification, and any required waivers. Most companies provide a short safety briefing explaining how to board the aircraft, how to wear your seatbelt and headset, and what to do in case of an emergency. The process is simple, efficient, and designed to help you feel confident before takeoff. Most helicopter tour operators may weigh you again prior to the flight to make sure no last minute changes are needed for flight safety and balancing the helicopter.
Helicopter Tour: Step-by-Step Experience Breakdown
| Stage | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Arrival & Check-In | Arrive 30–45 minutes early; present ID, fill out safety waiver, and confirm weight for seating purposes. |
| Safety Briefing | Watch a short safety video, receive a headset, learn emergency procedures, and ask any last-minute questions. |
| Meet the Pilot | Your pilot will introduce themselves, explain the route, and review key safety reminders. |
| Boarding | You’ll be guided onto the helicopter by staff, typically seated based on weight balance. Window seats are not guaranteed. |
| Takeoff | A smooth vertical lift-off – usually quieter and gentler than most expect. Take a deep breath and enjoy the moment. |
| In-Flight Experience | Listen to live commentary or music through your headset, take photos, and soak in the scenery. Some tours allow in-flight communication. |
| Landing | Return to the helipad with a controlled, smooth descent. Staff will help you disembark safely. |
| Post-Flight Photos | Some companies offer a souvenir photo or group picture with the helicopter. Optional but a fun keepsake. |
| Tipping Your Pilot | Tipping is appreciated but not required. If you enjoyed your flight, $10–$20 per person is a common tip. |
| Leave a Review | Help future guests by leaving a review on Google, TripAdvisor, or Viator. Mention your pilot if they were great! |
What to Wear and What to Bring
Wear dark, fitted clothing to reduce window reflections and ensure comfortable movement inside the cabin. Avoid hats, loose scarves, or oversized bags. Cameras and phones are allowed, but they should be set to airplane mode. Some tours provide lockers for personal items you cannot bring. Sunglasses are recommended, and if you plan to take photos, bring a camera with a wrist strap or secure grip.
- Dark-colored shirt (reduces glare on windows)
- ID for check-in
- Sunglasses with strap
- Closed-toe shoes
- Phone or camera (with strap if doors-off)
- Hair tie for long hair
- Light jacket or hoodie (it’s cooler at altitude)
Boarding the Helicopter
Once called for boarding, staff will guide you to the helicopter. Seating arrangements are often based on weight distribution for safety, but solo travelers and couples may still get window seats. After boarding, your pilot or crew will help secure your seatbelt and headset. Many helicopter tour operators take a photo of you before or during boarding, which you can purchase later. Doors may be open or closed depending on the tour type.
What Happens During the Flight
Once in the air, you will hear the pilot through your headset, which often includes live narration and music. You will fly over designated landmarks, scenic areas, and points of interest, depending on the tour route. Helicopter rides are surprisingly smooth, though you may feel slight vibrations or brief dips due to air currents. Pilots typically point out sights along the way and may circle certain areas for better views. Flights can range from 10 minutes to over an hour depending on your helicopter tour package.
What to Expect on a Helicopter Tour – FAQ
Question: What happens before the helicopter tour begins?
Answer: You’ll arrive at the departure site or heliport about 30–60 minutes early for check-in. After verifying your ID and weight (for seat balancing), you’ll receive a safety briefing, be fitted with a seatbelt and headset, and get any additional info from staff.
Question: Do I need to bring anything for the tour?
Answer: Bring a valid ID, confirmation email or mobile voucher, and a camera or phone (with strap for doors-off tours). Wear comfortable, dark clothing, and avoid bringing loose items or bulky bags.
Question: What is the takeoff like?
Answer: Takeoff is smooth and gradual. The helicopter gently lifts straight up, giving you a rising view of the area. It’s not like a rollercoaster – most people find it exciting and easy.
Question: What is the helicopter ride experience like?
Answer: You’ll wear a headset that provides commentary and communication with the pilot. Expect panoramic views through wide windows and a relatively quiet, steady ride, especially in calm weather.
Question: Will I get motion sickness during the flight?
Answer: Most people don’t. Helicopters fly smoothly, but if you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking a non-drowsy medication beforehand and avoiding heavy meals before the flight.
Question: Can I take photos and videos during the flight?
Answer: Absolutely. Photography is encouraged. Just make sure your camera or phone is secure, especially on doors-off flights, where strong wind can knock items loose.
Question: What happens during a landing tour?
Answer: If your tour includes a landing – such as on a glacier, volcano, or remote beach – you’ll step out with the guide and have time to explore and take photos before reboarding for the return flight.
Question: What happens after the flight ends?
Answer: Once you land, staff will escort you back to the waiting area. You may have a chance to view or purchase photos, tip your pilot, and ask follow-up questions. Transportation back to your hotel or parking is included on some tours.
Question: Are there weight or seating restrictions?
Answer: Yes. Most companies have a passenger weight limit (often around 250–300 lbs per seat), and seating is assigned based on weight distribution. Let the tour provider know if you have concerns or need special accommodations.
Question: Will the pilot provide narration during the tour?
Answer: Yes. Most pilots are also trained guides who share fun facts, local history, and geographic highlights over the headset. You can often ask questions or request a quiet ride, depending on the tour style.
