Big Easy Helicopter Tours: Best Views of New Orleans

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Big Easy Helicopter Tours offers an exhilarating and unique perspective on the mesmerizing city of New Orleans from above. With a fleet of cutting-edge helicopters and highly skilled pilots, they provide a range of aerial tour options tailored to diverse interests and preferences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local resident, these tours promise to unveil the city’s iconic landmarks, rich heritage, and breathtaking landscapes from a fresh vantage point.

TL;DR

  • Big Easy Helicopter Tours offers various helicopter tour packages showcasing the best of New Orleans from the skies.
  • These aerial tours provide a unique perspective on famous landmarks, neighborhoods, and natural surroundings that cannot be experienced on the ground.
  • Safety is a top priority, with FAA-certified pilots and strict adherence to safety protocols by the company.

Diverse Tour Options

Big Easy Helicopter Tours offers a diverse range of tour packages to suit different interests, budgets, and time constraints. Their most popular option is the “Downtown Tour,” which lasts approximately 15-20 minutes and covers the city’s central business district, French Quarter, and Mississippi Riverfront. For a more immersive experience, the “City Tour” extends to 30-45 minutes and includes additional sights such as the Garden District, Superdome, and City Park.

For a truly unforgettable experience, consider booking a sunset or nighttime tour. As the sun dips below the horizon, you’ll witness the city’s iconic skyline bathed in a warm, golden glow. After dark, the sparkling city lights create a dazzling display that is sure to take your breath away. These tours are particularly romantic and perfect for special occasions like anniversaries or proposals.

Booking and Preparation

Reserving a helicopter tour with Big Easy Helicopter Tours is straightforward. You can easily book your spot online through their website or by calling their office directly. When selecting your tour package, consider factors such as duration, route, and any special requirements you may have. The knowledgeable staff is always happy to provide guidance and answer any questions to help you choose the perfect tour.

On the day of your tour, arrive at the designated heliport about 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This allows ample time for check-in procedures and a safety briefing conducted by your pilot. During this briefing, you’ll learn about the helicopter’s features, emergency protocols, and what to expect during the flight. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or voice any concerns you may have – your pilot is there to ensure you feel comfortable and secure throughout the experience.

Prioritizing Safety

At Big Easy Helicopter Tours, safety is of utmost importance. The company maintains an impeccable safety record and adheres to strict protocols set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). All helicopters undergo regular maintenance checks and are equipped with advanced safety features such as GPS navigation, weather radar, and emergency floatation devices.

The pilots at Big Easy Helicopter Tours are among the most experienced and qualified in the industry. Each pilot holds a commercial helicopter license and has undergone rigorous training in aircraft operation, safety procedures, and local knowledge. Many of the pilots have military or emergency services backgrounds, bringing a wealth of expertise to their roles. Rest assured that you are in capable hands during your tour.

Weather conditions can impact the safety and feasibility of helicopter tours. Big Easy Helicopter Tours closely monitors weather reports and will postpone or cancel flights if conditions are deemed unsafe. In the event of a cancellation, the company will work with you to reschedule your tour or provide a refund in accordance with their policies.

Unique Aerial Perspectives

One of the most thrilling aspects of a helicopter tour is the opportunity to see familiar sights from a completely new perspective. As you soar over New Orleans, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s unique layout, architecture, and natural beauty.

The French Quarter, with its vibrant colors and intricate ironwork balconies, takes on a whole new character when viewed from above. You’ll see how the narrow streets and historic buildings fit together like pieces of a puzzle, creating the district’s iconic charm. The mighty Mississippi River, which has shaped the city’s history and economy, appears even more impressive as it winds its way through the heart of New Orleans.

Other notable landmarks that come to life during the tour include Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and the Superdome. From the air, you can truly grasp the scale and significance of these structures within the city’s landscape. For those interested in New Orleans’ unique above-ground cemeteries, some tours offer a glimpse of these “Cities of the Dead” and their elaborate tombs.

Enriching Audio Guides and Commentary

To enrich your understanding and appreciation of the sights below, Big Easy Helicopter Tours provides informative audio guides and live commentary during the flight. Through your headset, you’ll hear fascinating insights into the city’s history, culture, and architecture as you fly over each landmark.

The audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, and German, making the tours accessible to a wide range of visitors. The commentary is carefully crafted to be engaging and educational, with a mix of historical facts, local anecdotes, and cultural tidbits. Your pilot may also point out interesting features or share personal stories, adding a friendly and personalized touch to the experience.

If you have any questions during the tour, feel free to ask your pilot through the headset’s two-way communication system. They are happy to provide additional information or clarification, ensuring that you come away with a deeper understanding and appreciation of New Orleans.

Rave Customer Reviews

Big Easy Helicopter Tours has consistently earned rave reviews from satisfied customers. Many visitors describe the experience as “unforgettable,” “breathtaking,” and “the highlight of their trip.” They praise the professionalism and friendliness of the pilots, the smooth and comfortable ride, and the incredible views of the city.

One common theme in customer feedback is the sense of awe and wonder that comes from seeing New Orleans from a new perspective. Many people express surprise at how much they learned about the city’s layout, history, and architecture during the tour. They appreciate the informative commentary and feel that it greatly enhances their understanding and enjoyment of the sights.

Customers also frequently mention the high level of safety and organization demonstrated by Big Easy Helicopter Tours. They feel confident and well-prepared thanks to the thorough safety briefings and the pilots’ evident expertise. The company’s attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction shines through in the consistently positive reviews.

Premium Services and Packages

In addition to their standard tour packages, Big Easy Helicopter Tours offers a range of special services and add-ons to enhance your experience. For an exclusive experience, you can book a private tour for just you and your group. This allows for a more intimate and customizable experience, with the flexibility to adjust the route or duration according to your preferences.

Photography enthusiasts will be thrilled to learn that Big Easy Helicopter Tours offers professional photo packages. Skilled photographers accompany the tour and capture stunning aerial shots of you and your group against the backdrop of New Orleans’ iconic landmarks. These high-quality images serve as the perfect souvenir to remember your adventure.

For special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or proposals, Big Easy Helicopter Tours can help you create an unforgettable celebration. They offer special packages that include champagne, chocolates, and personalized decorations to make your flight extra special. Imagine popping the question or toasting to a milestone while soaring over the city lights – it’s a moment you’ll cherish forever.

Boosting Local Tourism and Economy

Helicopter tours have become an increasingly popular attraction in New Orleans, contributing significantly to the city’s thriving tourism industry. By offering a unique and exciting way to experience the city, companies like Big Easy Helicopter Tours help draw visitors from around the world, boosting local businesses and supporting jobs in the hospitality sector.

The economic impact of aerial tour operations extends beyond the tours themselves. Visitors who take helicopter tours often spend more time and money in the city, patronizing local restaurants, shops, and other attractions. The stunning aerial views and informative commentary can also inspire visitors to explore more of New Orleans on foot, deepening their engagement with the city and its culture.

As the popularity of helicopter tours continues to grow, there is potential for further expansion and innovation in the industry. Big Easy Helicopter Tours is always looking for ways to enhance their offerings and provide new experiences for their customers. In the future, they may introduce new tour routes, themed packages, or partnerships with other local businesses to create even more immersive and memorable adventures.

By combining cutting-edge technology, expert pilots, and a passion for showcasing the best of New Orleans, Big Easy Helicopter Tours is poised to remain a leader in the city’s aerial tour industry. As more visitors discover the thrill and beauty of seeing the city from above, the company is ready to soar to new heights, contributing to the vibrant tourism scene of New Orleans for years to come.

Contact Information:

Big Easy Helicopter Tours

6101 G Bellanca St.

New Orleans, LA 70124

Phone: (504) 241-8769

Hours: Monday – Saturday, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Prices:

Downtown Tours: Starting at $140 per person

City Tours: Starting at $200 per person

Sunset Tours: Starting at $250 per person

Nighttime Tours: Starting at $300 per person

Custom Tours: Prices vary based on duration and route.

Ransom-Patterson

About the author

Ransom Patterson is a seasoned writer and editor with extensive experience in creating engaging online content since 2015. His fresh perspective enriches Inside NOLA with insightful articles that highlight the unique neighborhoods and cultural experiences of New Orleans. Ransom's passion for music and culinary arts shines through as he shares stories about the city's jazz clubs, live music venues, and iconic dishes. His dedication to exploring new experiences, combined with his meticulous approach to writing, makes him a trusted authority on all things New Orleans. When he's not writing, Ransom enjoys making music, cooking new dishes, and cycling, which fuels his appreciation for the vibrant lifestyle of the Crescent City.