One of the most overlooked but exceptionally exciting possibilities during vacation time is to tour the local terrain in a helicopter. Helicopter rides were once an option only for the well to do, but they are becoming more and more a common vacation event for American families. When one considers some of the benefits of cruising the skyline in a helicopter, it becomes obvious why they are booming in popularity.
The first and foremost reason to go on a helicopter ride is the amazing panoramic views you can get nowhere else. Whether the terrain is a bustling city, a countryside covered in farmland and vineyards, or a vast wilderness, the sights will be quite unique. Due to the helicopter’s naturally low speed and hovering abilities, you will get a good, long look at the scene below you. The agility and tight turning radius of the helicopter will allow you to get up-close looks at all the most significant terrain features in the area. You can also take unbeatable photographs from the seat of a helicopter, which will keep alive the memories for years to come.
The second major advantage of helicopter rides is that they are relaxing and relatively private. Most sight-seeing locations demand you wade through a large crowd and do your best to get a few seconds gazing time at the best vantage point. A helicopter, however, is a world all its own. You can simply relax and enjoy the view far from the pressures of the crowds.
Third, helicopter rides have in their favor the simple fact that they are new to many people. Novictor Aviation added, “Almost everyone has flown in an airplane, but the experience of a helicopter ride is often a new frontier just waiting to be conquered. Moving vertically instead of just horizontally through the air, listening to the whir of the chopper blades, and turning in small circles as you hover in the air may all be new experiences.”
As to safety, there has been much concern in the past, but the fact is that there has been a dramatic drop in helicopter incidents over the last decade. The United States Helicopter Safety Team (USHST) informs us that the accident rate has been cut in half compared to the 2001 to 2005 average. These vehicles are safer now than ever. New models and highly trained pilots have truly improved safety by leaps and bounds.
Finally, high competition has led to a major reduction in the price of helicopter rides. Partly, this has stemmed from the boom in online advertising. The growing popularity of helicopters, particularly as a vacationing event, has naturally driven down the cost.
Imagine gliding effortlessly over sand-swept seashores while watching the tide roll in and out. Imagine seeing a vast forest of evergreens open up before you as you explore pristine wilderness from the air. Consider how beautiful snowy mountains and gently rolling hills would look from a bird’s eye view. Canyons, waterfalls, and remote deserts and wetlands all are accessible by helicopter. City-scapes are no less impressive. Maneuvering around tall buildings and hovering over busy highways and sea ports can be breathtaking. Anyone who enjoys a grand view of his surroundings while relaxing in a private, little “booth” in the sky will do well to add a helicopter tour to his next vacation.
