Grand Canyon National Park by Helicopter - 5 Tricks for Getting the Best Flight
Now that we are officially into 2014, it's time to start planning that Grand Canyon helicopter tour. Here are some things to know about Grand Canyon helicopters.
From Las Vegas
Helicopter tours that depart from Vegas go only to the West Rim. What should you do if you have your heart set on touring the South Rim? The South Rim is too far for a chopper but you can go by plane and get there in about an hour.
Also, you should know the West Rim is the only place in the National Park where helicopters can fly to the bottom of the canyon and land. Authorities at the South Rim have banned this due to noise regulations. So if you want to get to the floor of the canyon, you need to take off from Vegas and head to the West Rim where the air tours land at the top or bottom of the canyon.
The helicopters used in the tours hold seven people, including the pilot and six passengers. If you're group exceeds six people, you'll be divided amongst aircraft. If that's not plausible, I suggest you book an airplane tour. The planes carry 19 passengers so large groups can fly together.
About The Window Seats
Most everyone wants to know if they can book a window seat. The weight in a helicopter has to be distributed evenly, so passengers are generally assigned seating according to how much they weigh. Therefore, there is no guarantee you will get a window seat. Still, it is possible to book one when you book your tour online. It is no guarantee, but if possible, you will get the window seat and if not, you will not pay the extra fee.
Let's see, that's four key things you need to know. Here's the fifth: Upgrade to an EcoStar 130. Yes, I know they are more expensive but these choppers are the kings of the sky. They feature forward facing, stadium style seats, a cabin that's 25 percent bigger than the average helicopter (important if you're a big guy like me) and a 180-degree wraparound window (ideal for you shutterbugs out there).
Before I wrap, a couple of words about bookings. Book your tour early so you get the best selection. It is not unusual for the tours to sell out days in advance. You should get your seats at least one week before you plan to take your tour. Once you've determined that, purchase your trip on the Internet. It's where all the great rates are.
Cold Weather
And do understand that it's cold out here in the southwest despite the fact that Las Vegas sits in a desert. Be sure to dress appropriately in sturdy shoes, long pants, a jacket, hat, and gloves. Dress warmly, and dress in layers so you can take off some clothes as the day warms up.
I hope these tips help you better plan for your tour of the Grand Canyon. These are the topics most people seem to ask about. By learning about what to expect, you can pick the best air tour for you. And most importantly, do the booking online. It is safe, convenient, easy, and it will save you money.
From Las Vegas
Helicopter tours that depart from Vegas go only to the West Rim. What should you do if you have your heart set on touring the South Rim? The South Rim is too far for a chopper but you can go by plane and get there in about an hour.
Also, you should know the West Rim is the only place in the National Park where helicopters can fly to the bottom of the canyon and land. Authorities at the South Rim have banned this due to noise regulations. So if you want to get to the floor of the canyon, you need to take off from Vegas and head to the West Rim where the air tours land at the top or bottom of the canyon.
The helicopters used in the tours hold seven people, including the pilot and six passengers. If you're group exceeds six people, you'll be divided amongst aircraft. If that's not plausible, I suggest you book an airplane tour. The planes carry 19 passengers so large groups can fly together.
About The Window Seats
Most everyone wants to know if they can book a window seat. The weight in a helicopter has to be distributed evenly, so passengers are generally assigned seating according to how much they weigh. Therefore, there is no guarantee you will get a window seat. Still, it is possible to book one when you book your tour online. It is no guarantee, but if possible, you will get the window seat and if not, you will not pay the extra fee.
Let's see, that's four key things you need to know. Here's the fifth: Upgrade to an EcoStar 130. Yes, I know they are more expensive but these choppers are the kings of the sky. They feature forward facing, stadium style seats, a cabin that's 25 percent bigger than the average helicopter (important if you're a big guy like me) and a 180-degree wraparound window (ideal for you shutterbugs out there).
Before I wrap, a couple of words about bookings. Book your tour early so you get the best selection. It is not unusual for the tours to sell out days in advance. You should get your seats at least one week before you plan to take your tour. Once you've determined that, purchase your trip on the Internet. It's where all the great rates are.
Cold Weather
And do understand that it's cold out here in the southwest despite the fact that Las Vegas sits in a desert. Be sure to dress appropriately in sturdy shoes, long pants, a jacket, hat, and gloves. Dress warmly, and dress in layers so you can take off some clothes as the day warms up.
I hope these tips help you better plan for your tour of the Grand Canyon. These are the topics most people seem to ask about. By learning about what to expect, you can pick the best air tour for you. And most importantly, do the booking online. It is safe, convenient, easy, and it will save you money.
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