What to Expect on a Blue Hawaiian Helicopter Tour
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters operates scenic helicopter sightseeing tours across all the major Hawaiian islands—the Big Island, Maui, Oahu, and Kauai—with bases strategically positioned for guest convenience. The video takes you behind the scenes at their Waikoloa heliport on the Big Island, uniquely located off the Queen K Highway near resort areas rather than at a traditional airport, making it exceptionally accessible for travelers. This is a company built for first-time fliers and repeat visitors alike, with nearly 40 years of experience since its 1985 founding by David and Patti Chevalier.
If you're drawn to aerial views of Hawaii's remote valleys, waterfalls, and coastlines, and you want to experience what pilots themselves call "the Mana—the spirit of the land," this tour suits you. The experience works equally well whether you're celebrating a milestone, seeking adventure, or simply wanting to see Hawaii from a perspective that's impossible from the ground. Spots fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons, so booking well in advance is essential.
Key Moments
Highlights of the Blue Hawaiian Experience
- Airbus H130 aircraft engineered specifically for sightseeing, with panoramic visibility from every seat and advanced anti-vibration technology for smooth, comfortable flight
- Access to remote destinations—deep valleys, waterfalls, and coastlines—visible only by air across the Hawaiian islands
- Pilots with a minimum of 2,000 flying hours, many of whom have chosen Blue Hawaiian as their long-term base after building experience elsewhere
- Quiet-cabin technology that reduces vibration and noise, enhancing both comfort and the ability to hear your pilot's narration
- Tours departing from a non-airport location with direct resort proximity, eliminating long ground transfers before your flight
- The personal impact of the experience—pilots report guests often tell them it's one of the best days of their lives
What You Need to Know Before Booking Your Flight
- Aircraft choice: Blue Hawaiian operates both the Airbus H130 B4 and T2 models, both optimized for the diverse climates and demanding terrain of Hawaii
- Safety standard: Every pilot has logged at least 2,000 flying hours; safety is described as the company's key focus
- Visibility and comfort: The H130 was designed for sightseeing, meaning windows and sightlines are prioritized, and anti-vibration systems ensure a smooth ride even for nervous first-time fliers
- Multi-island options: Tours operate from four island bases, so you can book different routes depending on where you're staying
- Booking urgency: Tours fill quickly, particularly during high season, so secure your spot as early as possible to guarantee your preferred date and time
Frequently Asked Questions About Blue Hawaiian Tours
Which islands can I fly to with Blue Hawaiian?
The company operates sightseeing tours throughout the entire state of Hawaii, with bases on the Big Island, Maui, Oahu, and Kauai. Depending on which island you're visiting, you can book tours that showcase that island's unique landscapes, from valleys to waterfalls to coastlines.
Is this safe for nervous first-time fliers?
Yes. Every Blue Hawaiian pilot has at least 2,000 flying hours of experience, and the company prioritizes safety as a foundational value. The Airbus H130 aircraft includes advanced safety systems and anti-vibration technology designed to provide a smooth, comfortable ride, making it an ideal choice for those flying in a helicopter for the first time.
Why the Airbus H130 specifically?
The H130 was engineered specifically for sightseeing tours. It offers panoramic visibility from all seats, advanced anti-vibration and quiet-cabin technology for passenger comfort, and the performance capability to handle Hawaii's diverse climates and remote terrain safely and reliably.
How much of Blue Hawaiian's business comes from sightseeing tours?
Approximately 80 percent of the company's revenue is derived from public sightseeing tours, with the remaining 20 percent coming from private tours and charters. This focus on public tours means the company has refined the sightseeing experience as its core mission.
Where is the Waikoloa base located?
The Waikoloa heliport sits on the side of the Queen K Highway near resorts and hotels, making it uniquely convenient compared to Blue Hawaiian's other bases, which are located at airports. This positioning minimizes ground transfer time for guests and allows for quick departures to explore the surrounding island.
