Essential tips for a safe and fun helicopter tour in Hawaii
Planning a helicopter tour in Hawaii? Get ready to see paradise from a whole new perspective! Picture yourself soaring over stunning coastlines, ancient valleys, and jaw-dropping waterfalls—it’s an experience unlike any other. To make sure your adventure is as safe as it is unforgettable, here are some essential tips you won’t want to miss!
Choose a Certified Tour Provider
The key to an incredible (and safe) helicopter tour starts with picking the right company. In Hawaii, it’s super important to go with a provider certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)—and even better if they’re certified under Part 135. Companies like Island Helicopters meet strict safety standards, with highly skilled pilots and frequent inspections. This certification lets them go farther, allowing tours to reach mind-blowing spots like Kauai’s Na Pali Coast and the legendary Waimea Canyon.
Why settle for less when you can fly with the best? Going with a Part 135 certified provider means you’re getting top-notch safety and quality. Check out the FAA’s page on air tour safety to learn more about what these certifications mean for your peace of mind.
Plan for Hawaii’s Variable Weather
Hawaii’s weather is part of the adventure, and it can change in a flash. A sunny morning can turn into a breezy afternoon with misty rain—and that’s what makes Hawaii so lush and green! But to make the most of your helicopter tour, plan ahead. Check the weather forecast, and know that sometimes flights may need to adjust routes for safety. Companies like Island Helicopters are experts in navigating Hawaii’s unique conditions, so you’ll get the best experience while staying safe.
Check Kauai’s weather forecast before your tour and be prepared for all kinds of breathtaking views, rain or shine!
Dress Appropriately for Comfort and Photos
Want to capture the perfect photos? Here’s a simple trick: wear dark-colored clothes. Bright colors can reflect off the helicopter windows and show up in your photos, which isn’t ideal. A comfortable outfit, along with sturdy, closed-toed shoes, is the way to go—especially if your tour includes a landing, like the Jurassic Falls Landing Adventure. The helicopter is climate-controlled, but bringing a light jacket is a smart idea if you tend to get chilly.
Review Safety Policies and Weight Restrictions
Safety isn’t just a priority—it’s the foundation of any good helicopter tour. Most Hawaiian tour companies, including Island Helicopters, follow FAA weight regulations to keep the flight balanced and secure. Guests over a certain weight may need to purchase an extra seat, and everyone is weighed (discreetly) at check-in to ensure proper balance. Knowing these policies ahead of time means no surprises at check-in, and it keeps everyone safe and comfortable.
Island Helicopters’ commitment to safety is legendary. Their fleet of Airbus AStar helicopters is perfectly suited for Hawaiian conditions, with floor-to-ceiling windows for incredible views. Plus, their pilots are some of the most experienced around—many with thousands of flight hours under their belts. So when you book with them, you’re not just in for a great tour—you’re in for a safe one.
Be Aware of Photography Guidelines
A helicopter tour is a prime chance for amazing photos, but keep in mind each company’s photography guidelines. Most tours allow standard cameras and phones, but selfie sticks, drones, and large lenses are usually a no-go. For the clearest shots, hold your camera slightly away from the window to reduce vibrations. If you’re on the Jurassic Falls Landing Adventure, you’ll even have the chance to snap a photo right in front of the falls—it doesn’t get more iconic than that!
Want more photography tips? Check out this guide to capturing the best shots on a helicopter tour to make sure you get those envy-worthy images.
Conclusion
A helicopter tour in Hawaii is one of the most exciting and memorable ways to experience the islands up close. From the Na Pali Coast to Waimea Canyon and beyond, these sights are breathtaking from above. By choosing a certified provider, dressing for comfort, preparing for Hawaii’s changing weather, following safety guidelines, and keeping photography tips in mind, you’ll be set for an amazing adventure. Book your tour with an experienced, customer-focused company like Island Helicopters and get ready to see Hawaii like never before.