What Is It Like Flying in a Helicopter?

Did you know that trying new things can make you feel happier? Try something new, like going on a helicopter ride. If you want to go but aren’t sure what to expect, we can help.

In this guide, we’ll go over what to expect when flying in a helicopter. You’ll learn what to wear, where you might sit, and how to get the best pictures.

Want to learn more? Keep reading.

Wear the Right Clothes

What you wear for your helicopter ride will impact your experience. You want to feel comfortable and safe during your ride.

Leave your loose-fitting clothing items at home. Don’t wear a loose scarf or hat. Your scarf could get pulled up by the wind, and you could lose your hat during the kick-off.

Do you have long hair? Make sure you pull it back into a bun. During the ride, your hair could get tangled because of the wind. Prevent tangles later on by tying your hair up before the ride.

Where Will You Sit?

The pilot will have specific instructions on seating. If you’re going on a flight with your friend or partner, there won’t be an issue.

Yet, during a helicopter tour, there might be a few people you don’t know. Some people want to grab the best seat.

The helicopter tour service will work hard to seat people together. Yet, be aware that there are times when it isn’t possible.

Don’t try to take someone’s seat after you received a seat assignment. You don’t want to waste time and take it away from your ride.

Research the Helicopter

The helicopter you end up in will get determined by the company you book through. Some helicopters will have front-facing seats.

Larger helicopters will have a bunch of rear-facing seats. Everyone will be able to see, no matter the helicopter type.

If you’d like to watch where the pilot flies, aim to book a front-facing seat. If you or your partner suffers from motion sickness, try to get a front-facing seat as well.

People who experience motion sickness may have symptoms if they sit in a rear-facing seat. Consider taking a non-drowsy motion sickness medication before the trip.

Safety Tips

During the helicopter ride, there are things you can do to have a safe experience.

Pay attention to what the pilot says. Make sure you follow the pilot’s instructions regarding exiting or entering the helicopter. When the rotors are still moving, you could end up getting injured.

Before walking toward the helicopter, make sure your personal belongings are secure. You don’t want any items blowing away. Don’t wear loose clothing.

If a belonging does end up flying away, don’t go after it. The staff will work hard to try and get these items back. You don’t want to put your life in danger going after your belongings.

Make Sure You Follow Your Pilot’s Rules

The helicopter tour or ride will have a careful plan. The pilot will have a time when they plan to take off and when they plan to land. To stay on schedule and enjoy your experience, make sure you listen to your pilot.

The tour staff and the pilot can answer questions you have. You could also email the company ahead of time if you have questions. You can get an understanding of what to expect during your ride.

If you or your friend or partner feel uncertain about the trip, call ahead. This way, you can feel relaxed about the trip. Most pilots and tour staff will work their hardest to make riders feel comfortable.

Do You Want to Take Pictures?

An exciting part about a helicopter ride is getting to take pictures. Take pictures with your camera or your cell phone. If you’re hoping to get fantastic shots, consider wearing darker clothes.

Bright-colored clothing will get picked up in the window. There are some glares and reflections on the windows. Wear dark clothing, so your reflection won’t appear.

Will the Experience Feel Scary?

Helicopter pilots undergo training to maintain a high standard of professionalism and safety.

A passenger who felt nervous at take-off will begin to relax once in the air. The stunning views around people tend to calm passengers.

Will There Be Turbulence?

Turbulence or bumps during a helicopter ride tend to be rare. A helicopter’s response to turbulence is a lot different compared to a plane.

Helicopters ride out turbulence differently because of their flexible blades and sleek shape. Passengers don’t tend to feel anything.

If the turbulence is going to be severe, the pilot won’t take flight.

Can You Hear the Pilot During the Ride?

During the ride, you will hear what the pilot says if they give you noise-canceling headsets. Feel free to ask your pilot a question during the flight.

Research different areas you want to explore. Consider flying in a helicopter on your next day off.

Now You Know What to Expect When Flying In a Helicopter

We hope this guide on helicopter travel was helpful. When flying in a helicopter, make sure you listen to the pilot.

Call ahead and ask questions before the trip. Tie up your long hair, leave your hat or scarf at home, and bring a camera.

Are you looking for more helpful tips? Check out our resources on food, travel, and more.