Overview of San Diego's Corporate Helicopter Tours at Montgomery-Gibbs
Corporate Helicopters operates from Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport in San Diego, offering private helicopter tours for individuals and groups. The video follows a family booking and experiencing one of three main tour options, departing from the airport's main office facility. All tours are now offered as private experiences exclusively for your party, meaning you'll have the aircraft to yourselves without sharing seats with strangers.
This experience suits families celebrating milestones, couples looking for a romantic outing, business groups seeking memorable networking, or anyone wanting to see San Diego's landmarks from above. The company has decades of experience beyond tourism—they've handled aerial filming for major Hollywood productions, TV shows, and commercials, so safety and professionalism are embedded in their operations.
Key Moments
What You'll See on Your San Diego Helicopter Tour
- Aerial views of downtown San Diego's skyline and urban landscape
- Harbor views showcasing the city's waterfront and bay area
- Ocean views from above, ideal for photography and perspective
- Scenic passes over hotels and notable landmarks (the video mentions pilots slowing down over hotel areas for better sightseeing)
- City overview that captures the full breadth of San Diego's geography
Practical Details Before Booking Your Flight
- Tour pricing per person: The Pilot Experience starts at $389, the BookWinery Lunch option is $599, and the premium Getaway Tour is $900
- Scheduling: Tours operate on set flight times; the video shows a 2:00 PM departure slot
- Group arrangements: Private tours mean you control who joins, making it ideal for families or close friends traveling together
- What to bring: The video reminds passengers to bring identification, which is standard for all helicopter operations
- First-time nerves: The video captures family members expressing excitement mixed with natural nervousness—this is normal, and the professional crew puts guests at ease before takeoff
- Booking soon: Private tours at popular times fill quickly, so reserve in advance, especially for weekend or peak-season flights
Frequently Asked Questions About San Diego Helicopter Tours
Is a helicopter tour in San Diego worth the cost?
The video explicitly endorses helicopter tours as "absolutely worth the splurge" for those who love aerial views. Guests rarely regret the experience, and the private nature of modern tours (no sharing with strangers) enhances the value. If seeing your destination from a completely new perspective is on your bucket list, the investment pays off.
How long does a typical San Diego helicopter tour last?
The video does not specify exact flight duration, but it shows a 2:00 PM booking time and captures pre-flight briefings and boarding. Most helicopter tours of this type typically range from 30 to 60 minutes airborne. Contact Corporate Helicopters directly for the precise duration of each tour package.
Who operates the helicopter tours, and are they experienced?
Corporate Helicopters is San Diego's longest-established full-service helicopter company. Beyond sightseeing, they regularly conduct aerial filming for major Hollywood productions, TV shows, and commercials. This professional background means your pilot and crew have extensive real-world experience and prioritize safety above all.
Can I bring a camera or phone on the flight?
The video shows passengers recording video and taking photos during the tour, indicating that personal cameras and phones are permitted. However, always confirm current policies with the company, as rules may vary. Bring a fully charged device and secure it with a strap to prevent accidental drops.
What makes the three tour packages different?
The Pilot Experience at $389 is the entry-level option, while the BookWinery Lunch at $599 likely includes a meal component or winery destination. The premium Getaway Tour at $900 probably offers the longest flight, most exclusive routing, or additional amenities. The video does not detail the exact differences, so reach out to Corporate Helicopters to match each package to your preferences and budget.
