Overview of a Seattle Helicopter Tour with Northwest Helicopters
This video documents a first-time helicopter tour of Seattle departing from King County Airport with Northwest Helicopters. The creator, visiting Seattle for the day, books an aerial tour to see the city from above and experience the landscape that most ground-level visitors miss. The tour is guided by a staff member named Justin, who explains the route and ensures a smooth flight despite initial weather delays.
This experience suits travelers who want a memorable aerial perspective of Seattle's geography, whether they're first-time visitors or seasoned explorers looking for a unique vantage point. The tour works well for anyone with a few hours to spare and a willingness to embrace mild flight delays due to weather—common in the Pacific Northwest. If you enjoy scenic views and the thrill of small-aircraft flying, this is a worthwhile addition to any Seattle itinerary.
Key Moments
Highlights of the Seattle Helicopter Tour Flight
- Departure from King County Airport with a pre-flight briefing from the guide Justin
- Extended aerial views of Seattle's landscape and geography from the helicopter cabin
- A weather delay managed on the tarmac, showing real-world conditions and the operator's safety-first approach
- Safe landing and return to the airport, with the creator expressing genuine enthusiasm about the experience
- Post-flight conversation with the guide reflecting on the tour's quality
What to Know Before Booking Your Seattle Helicopter Tour
- Location: Tours depart from King County Airport via Northwest Helicopters
- Weather considerations: Expect possible delays; the video shows a 45-minute weather-related hold before clearance to take off
- Timing: Book early, as popular tour slots fill quickly, especially on clear days
- Clothing: The creator notes it was warm on the day of the tour—even with a sweater, the weather felt hot; dress in layers so you can adjust
- Duration: Plan for the flight itself plus 30–45 minutes for check-in, safety briefing, and potential weather delays
- Cameras: Bring a camera or phone with good battery; the video creator used a Canon PowerShot ELPH 330 HS and GoPro Hero 3+
Frequently Asked Questions About Northwest Helicopters Tours
How do I book a Seattle helicopter tour?
The video shows tours operated by Northwest Helicopters at King County Airport. You can visit their website (helicoptersnw.com) to check availability, select a tour date, and complete your booking. Spots do fill up, so booking in advance is recommended.
What happens if the weather is bad on my tour date?
The video demonstrates that safety is the priority—the crew delayed the flight due to poor weather conditions, then reassessed and eventually received clearance to proceed. If weather is unsafe, your tour may be delayed or rescheduled. Always confirm the operator's weather policy before booking.
How long does a helicopter tour of Seattle take?
While the video does not specify the exact flight duration, you should expect to spend 2–3 hours total at the facility, including check-in, a safety briefing, and the flight itself. Weather delays can add time, as shown in the video.
What should I wear for a helicopter tour?
Dress in layers and wear comfortable, secure clothing. The video creator wore a sweater but found it unexpectedly warm and had to change afterward. Avoid loose items that could blow away during boarding, and wear closed-toe shoes.
Can I bring a camera on the tour?
Yes—the video creator brought both a compact camera and a GoPro to capture aerial footage. Bring a fully charged device; window seats offer excellent photo opportunities of Seattle's landscape.
