Heli-picnics and winery flights

A heli-picnic or winery flight combines a scenic flight with time on the ground somewhere special: a deserted beach, an island, a hilltop lookout, a station property or a winery restaurant. These flights are popular for birthdays, anniversaries, proposals and corporate events, and they turn a short flight into a half-day or full-day experience.

This guide explains how these flights work, how landing sites are chosen, alcohol rules, weather, group sizes and tips for special occasions.

How these flights work

A typical heli-picnic or winery flight includes:

1. A scenic flight to the landing site.
2. Time on the ground, often with a picnic, meal or tasting.
3. A return flight, sometimes by a different scenic route.

Some operators provide the picnic themselves; others partner with wineries, restaurants or caterers. Packages vary in length, from a short landing to a full day.

Landing sites

Helicopters can't land just anywhere. Operators must assess landing sites for safety, including space, slope, obstacles and surface. Landing on private land requires the owner's permission, and national parks and marine parks have rules about where aircraft can land. Operators use sites they have permission to use, such as partner wineries, private properties, approved beaches and islands.

Winery flights

Winery flights are popular in wine regions close to cities, such as the Hunter Valley, the Barossa Valley, the Yarra Valley, McLaren Vale and Margaret River. Flights may visit one or several wineries, with tastings or lunch.

Alcohol. Passengers may be able to enjoy wine at the winery, but operators can refuse to carry passengers who are intoxicated, and passengers must be able to follow safety instructions. Pilots must comply with strict drug and alcohol rules. Check the operator's policy and drink responsibly.

Beach and island picnics

In coastal areas such as the Whitsundays and parts of Western Australia and Tasmania, flights land on approved beaches or islands. Landings in national parks and marine parks require permits, and some sites are seasonal or limited. Bring sun protection, water and suitable clothing.

Special occasions

Heli-picnics are popular for proposals, anniversaries and birthdays. Many operators offer private flights with extras such as flowers, champagne or a photographer.

• Book well ahead, especially for weekends and popular dates.
• Have a backup plan if weather cancels the flight.
• Tell the operator about any surprises you're planning, so they can help.

Groups

Small helicopters carry only a few passengers, so larger groups may need several aircraft or multiple flights. Use our group planner to estimate how many flights you'll need. Some operators have larger helicopters for groups.

Weather

Flights operate under visual flight rules and depend on suitable weather. Strong winds, low cloud, rain and poor visibility can delay or cancel flights. Check the operator's weather and rescheduling policy before booking.

Common mistakes

• Assuming a helicopter can land anywhere.
• Drinking too much before the return flight.
• Planning a surprise without a weather backup.
• Not checking what's included in the package.

What to bring

• Sun protection: a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Layers, as it can be cooler or windier at the landing site.
• Enclosed, comfortable shoes for walking on sand, grass or uneven ground.
• Any medications you need.
• A small bag, as space and weight are limited.

Corporate events

Heli-picnics and winery flights are used for corporate events, client entertainment and team rewards. Larger groups may need several aircraft flying in sequence, or larger helicopters. Plan well ahead, and check whether the operator can coordinate transport, catering and timing.

Dietary requirements

If the operator provides food, tell them about dietary requirements and allergies when you book. Remote landing sites have no shops, so plan ahead.

Time on the ground

Check how long you'll have at the landing site. Some packages include a short stop; others include a long lunch or a full afternoon. Weather may shorten time on the ground if the pilot needs to return before conditions deteriorate.

Leave no trace

At beaches, islands and other natural landing sites, take all rubbish with you, stay on durable surfaces and don't disturb wildlife. Some sites are in national parks or marine parks with specific rules.

Proposals: making it work

A proposal at a remote beach or hilltop can be unforgettable, but planning helps.

• Tell the operator in advance so they can help with timing and privacy.
• Think about where the ring will be during the flight, and keep it secure.
• Have a plan B if weather cancels the flight, such as a different date or a ground-based alternative.
• Consider booking a photographer, if the operator offers one.

Food, drink and dietary needs

Packages that include food usually involve a picnic hamper, a meal at a winery or restaurant, or a tasting. If anyone in your group has allergies or dietary requirements, tell the operator when you book so they can arrange alternatives. Drinking alcohol is usually allowed only after the flight or at the landing site, not on board, and operators may refuse to carry passengers who appear intoxicated. Bring water, sunscreen and a hat for time on the ground, as remote landing sites may have little shade.

Choosing a package

Packages vary widely. Some are a short flight to a winery with a tasting, others a full day with several landings and a long lunch. Compare the time in the air, time on the ground, what food and drink are included, how many other passengers share the flight, and whether the experience is private or shared. Ask whether transfers from your accommodation are included. Shared packages are usually cheaper, while private ones let you set the pace and suit special occasions. Read reviews, but remember that weather and individual expectations affect every experience. If you're booking as a gift, check how long vouchers are valid and what happens if the recipient can't fly on a given date. Finally, check where you land: some sites are private property accessible only with the operator, while others are public places where you may share the view with other visitors.

Key points

Heli-picnics and winery flights combine a scenic flight with time at a special landing site. Check landing arrangements, alcohol policies, weather terms and inclusions, and book ahead for special occasions.