Types of helicopter flights

Helicopter experiences in Australia range from short scenic loops at a country show to full-day adventures with landings at remote beaches and wineries. There are flights designed for photographers, private flights for special occasions and trial lessons for anyone who wants to try the controls. Knowing the options helps you choose the right experience for your budget, occasion and interests.

This section brings together our guides to the main types of helicopter flights.

Guides in this section

• Scenic joy flights explained: what they involve, how to compare them, seating and gift vouchers.
• Heli-picnics and winery flights: landing sites, alcohol rules, special occasions and groups.
• Doors-off photography flights: safety, securing gear, clothing and camera settings.
• Learning to fly helicopters: trial instructional flights, CASA licences, medicals and choosing a school.

Other types of flights

Transfers. Helicopters carry passengers between airports, islands, resorts, reef pontoons and remote lodges. Transfers save time and often double as scenic flights.

Charter. Private charter lets you plan your own route, subject to airspace, weather and landing rules.

Fly-in experiences. Some tours fly you to a remote location for a walk, meal or activity, such as Purnululu National Park or a remote beach.

Event flights. Short flights at agricultural shows, festivals and air shows.

Choosing the right flight

• First time? A short scenic flight is a great introduction.
• Special occasion? A heli-picnic, winery flight or private flight.
• Keen photographer? A doors-off flight or private charter.
• Want to fly? A trial instructional flight.
• Group? Use our group planner to work out how many flights you'll need, or ask about larger helicopters.

Comparing flights

• Compare time in the air, not just total experience time.
• Check the route and what you'll see.
• Check the aircraft, seating and windows.
• Check inclusions such as landings, food, drinks, transfers and photos.
• Check cancellation and weather policies.

Gift vouchers

Helicopter flight vouchers are popular gifts. Check the expiry date, terms, weather policy and whether the voucher can be transferred. Under Australian law, most gift vouchers must have an expiry period of at least three years, with some exceptions.

Safety

Whatever type of flight you choose, choose an established operator, listen to the safety briefing and follow the pilot's instructions. Read our guide to choosing a safe operator.

How helicopters carry passengers

Scenic flights use a range of helicopters. Small piston helicopters typically carry the pilot and up to three passengers. Larger turbine helicopters carry more passengers, often with larger windows and more cabin space. The pilot assigns seats based on weight and balance, so seating can't always be guaranteed.

Special occasions

Helicopter flights are popular for birthdays, anniversaries, proposals, hens and bucks parties, and corporate events. Many operators offer private flights with extras such as champagne, flowers or photography. Book well ahead, especially for weekends, and always have a backup plan for weather.

Children

Many operators accept children, but rules vary on minimum ages, seats and restraints. Short flights suit younger children. Check before booking.

Weight limits

Helicopters have strict weight and balance limits. Operators ask for passengers' weights and may have a maximum weight per passenger or charge for an extra seat. Use our group planner to check your group against your operator's limits.

Booking checklist

Before you pay, run through a short checklist. Confirm the date, departure time and check-in time, and the exact address of the helipad or airport, which may not be where you expect. Confirm how long the flight is in the air, not just the total experience. Ask what the weather and cancellation policy is, and whether refunds or rebooking are offered. Check any weight limits and whether you need to provide passenger weights in advance. Ask about seating, especially if a front seat or window matters to you. Finally, read the terms and conditions, including any fees for changes, and keep your confirmation handy on the day.

Seasonal flights

Some flights only run in certain seasons, such as whale-watching flights in winter and spring, or wet-season flights over waterfalls. Ask operators.

Gift vouchers

Helicopter flights make popular gifts. Before buying a voucher, check how long it's valid, whether it can be transferred, and how bookings and weather cancellations work. Give the recipient time to plan around the weather.

Key points

Helicopter experiences range from short joy flights to heli-picnics, doors-off photography flights and trial lessons. Match the flight to your occasion and interests, compare time in the air and inclusions, check terms and choose an established operator.