Planning a Hawaiian vacation? A helicopter tour in Hawaii is a popular choice to experience the islands’ beauty. But before hopping aboard, understanding a few factors is important to ensure a smooth and unforgettable flight.
While the stunning views from above are a huge draw, safety should be your top priority, and this is exactly what we’re going to discuss in this comprehensive guide.
Choosing the Right Tour
Picking the right tour can make all the difference. First, consider what you want to see. Do you want to see the complete island? The island of Oahu (the most popular island, where Honolulu is) offers stunning views of valleys, waterfalls, forests, and the Waikiki cityscape.
On the other hand, the Big Island is known for its active volcanoes and lava flows at the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Maybe spotting dolphins and whales over the emerald green valleys of North Kohala is more your style.
And lastly, taking a helicopter tour in Maui is an awesome way to see the island from above and the famous Road to Hana and its waterfalls. It’s one of the best things to do in Maui for couples.
Once you've decided on an island and must-see sights, make sure to book as soon as possible as these tours are very popular and sell out quickly.
Weather Considerations
The weather in Hawaii, although typically tropical, can be surprisingly unpredictable. Even if the sun's out at your hotel, conditions can change quickly at higher altitudes - And the rain shadow effect is another element to consider.
For this reason, most operators schedule flights during less windy times. That said, it's smart to confirm with your chosen company about any weather policies.
Should your flight get canceled due to weather, don't worry. Most companies are quite flexible and will work with you to reschedule. Still, it’s best to book your tour earlier in your trip, just in case a change is needed.
Understanding the Helicopter
Before flying, it's wise to have a basic understanding of helicopters and weight distribution. Most tour helicopters accommodate around six passengers. This means accurate passenger weights are crucial for safe takeoff and landing. During booking, and again at check-in, expect to provide your weight. It's all about safety.
Also, seating arrangements can sometimes impact the experience. Front seats typically provide the best views but can be a bit more pricey. Rear seats, on the other hand, offer a wider perspective of the surroundings.
If you tend to feel queasy during flights, chat with the company beforehand about seat options. Some people find that a front seat actually helps reduce motion sickness.
What to Wear on Your Helicopter Tour
Knowing what to wear on a Hawaii helicopter tour makes the trip far more comfortable. Opt for light, layered clothing as temperatures can fluctuate during the flight. Think dark, solid colors, which help minimize reflections on the helicopter's windows. This is especially key for getting great photos.
Skip the hat, as it could easily fly away in the open door of a helicopter on doors-off tours. Sunglasses are a must – especially polarized ones for cutting down on glare. Remember Blue Hawaiian Helicopters even partnered with Maui Jim to provide sunglasses at most locations.
Closed-toe shoes are recommended since they're the safest option for boarding and disembarking. Double-check that your camera has a secure strap because, let's be real, aerial photography in Hawaii is breathtaking.
Item | Reasoning |
Dark, solid clothing | Reduces glare in photos |
Light, layered clothing | Heat control for fluctuating temperatures |
Polarized sunglasses | Reduces glare for better views and photos |
Hats | Can fly off in the wind |
Closed-toe shoes | Safest option for boarding and disembarking |
Safety Precautions
Every tour company will provide a pre-flight safety briefing. They'll cover important procedures, like using seatbelts, what to do in case of an emergency, and how to communicate with the pilot through the headsets provided.
Pay attention to any restrictions on personal belongings. Large bags are often prohibited due to limited space. Keep in mind that loose items, especially during a doors-off experience, are a huge no-no for safety reasons. If you're feeling uneasy, it never hurts to inquire about the company’s safety regulations and practices beforehand.
Motion Sickness
Motion sickness is a common concern. The good news is that helicopters tend to offer a smoother flight compared to small airplanes. But, if you're prone to motion sickness, take a motion sickness pill an hour before departure.
It also helps to eat lightly beforehand. If you're really concerned, many companies offer alternative touring options, like scenic flights with fixed wings.
Conclusion:
By following these safety essentials for your helicopter tour in Hawaii, you can kick back and focus on the jaw-dropping views without any worries. From listening to the pilot’s instructions to dressing right for the ride, a little prep goes a long way.
A safe trip means you can fully enjoy the experience, and you’re guaranteed a fabulous flight!
Frequently Asked Questions
Helicopter tours in Hawaii are generally safe, with crashes being extremely rare. However, like any form of air travel, there’s always some level of risk.
On average, Hawaii sees a few incidents over the span of several years, but these are often due to unpredictable weather or mechanical issues.
Reputable companies take safety seriously, conducting routine maintenance and safety checks. Always choose operators with a solid safety record and experienced pilots for peace of mind.
Tipping your helicopter tour pilot in Hawaii is appreciated but not required. It’s similar to tipping in other service industries - if you feel the pilot gave you an exceptional experience, then a tip is a nice way to show it.
Most people tip around 10-20% of the tour cost. For example, if your tour costs $300, a tip of $30 to $60 is common. Of course, the tip amount is up to you and depends on your experience.
If the pilot went above and beyond with insights, smooth flying, or special attention to making the trip memorable, you might lean toward the higher end. Don’t stress too much about the exact amount - anything is appreciated!