Best Air Helicopter Tours in New Orleans: Scenic Views and Tips

New Orleans, a city steeped in history and charm, invites visitors to explore its iconic landmarks and breathtaking landscapes from a remarkable vantage point: a helicopter tour. These aerial adventures offer an awe-inspiring perspective of the Big Easy, allowing you to appreciate the city’s beauty from a bird’s eye view.

TL;DR

• New Orleans offers diverse helicopter tour options to cater to different preferences and budgets.
• Safety is a top priority, with operators adhering to strict regulations and employing experienced pilots.
• Choosing the ideal tour depends on factors like duration, route, and time of day for optimal scenic views.

Understanding Helicopter Tours in New Orleans

Helicopter tours have been a beloved attraction in New Orleans for decades, offering visitors an exhilarating and unforgettable way to experience the city. These tours provide a unique vantage point of famous landmarks such as the French Quarter, Mississippi River, and Mercedes-Benz Superdome, as well as the surrounding bayous and wetlands.

Types of Helicopter Tours Available

New Orleans helicopter tour companies offer a range of options to suit different interests and preferences:

Cityscape Tours

These tours highlight the urban landscape, soaring over iconic landmarks like the French Quarter, Jackson Square, and the Central Business District. Durations typically range from 12 to 30 minutes.

Bayou Tours

For those captivated by the region’s natural beauty, bayou tours showcase the wetlands, swamps, and wildlife surrounding New Orleans. These tours often include views of the Chalmette Battlefield and the abandoned Six Flags theme park. Durations range from 20 to 45 minutes.

Sunset Tours

Witnessing the city bathed in the golden hues of sunset is a truly unforgettable experience. Sunset tours depart in the late afternoon, offering stunning vistas of the skyline and the Mississippi River as the sun dips below the horizon. These tours typically last 30 to 45 minutes.

Choosing the Right Helicopter Tour Company

When selecting a helicopter tour company in New Orleans, consider the following factors:

• Safety Records: Prioritize companies with excellent safety records and well-maintained aircraft. Look for operators that adhere to strict safety protocols and employ seasoned pilots.
• Pilot Experience: Experienced pilots not only ensure a smooth and safe flight but also provide informative commentary throughout the tour. Check the company’s website or inquire about their pilots’ qualifications and experience.
• Customer Reviews: Peruse reviews from previous customers on platforms like TripAdvisor, Google, and the company’s website. Pay attention to feedback on the overall experience, safety, and customer service.

Some of the highly-regarded helicopter tour companies in New Orleans include:

• Crescent City Helicopters: Known for their seasoned pilots and well-maintained aircraft, Crescent City Helicopters offers a variety of city and bayou tours. Prices start at $110 per person for a 12-15 minute city tour.
• New Orleans Helicopter Tours: With a focus on safety and customer satisfaction, New Orleans Helicopter Tours provides a range of options, including private and sunset tours. Prices begin at $125 per person for a 15-mile city tour.
• FlyNOLA: Offering both helicopter and airplane tours, FlyNOLA is a popular choice for those seeking a unique aerial experience. Their helicopter tours start at $95 per person for a 15-mile city tour.

Planning Your Helicopter Tour Experience

The best time to take a helicopter tour in New Orleans depends on your preferences and the type of tour you choose. For cityscape tours, daytime flights offer the best visibility, while sunset tours provide a romantic and picturesque experience. Bayou tours are enjoyable year-round, but the cooler months (October to April) offer more comfortable temperatures and fewer mosquitoes.

To book a helicopter tour, visit the company’s website or contact them directly. Most operators require a credit card to secure the reservation and have a 24 to 48-hour cancellation policy. On the day of your tour, arrive at the designated heliport or meeting point at least 30 minutes before your scheduled flight time. The tour company will provide a safety briefing and any necessary equipment, such as headsets for communication during the flight.

Safety Measures and Regulations

Helicopter tour operators in New Orleans prioritize safety and adhere to strict regulations set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). These measures include:

• Regular maintenance and inspections of aircraft
• Comprehensive safety briefings for passengers
• Experienced and licensed pilots
• Adherence to flight paths and altitude restrictions

Passengers are required to follow safety guidelines, such as wearing seat belts, securing loose items, and following the pilot’s instructions at all times.

What to Expect During the Tour

A typical helicopter tour in New Orleans begins with a safety briefing and an introduction to your pilot. Once aboard the aircraft, you’ll be provided with a headset to communicate with the pilot and hear their commentary throughout the flight.

As you take off, the excitement builds as the city unfolds beneath you. Depending on your chosen tour, you’ll fly over iconic landmarks like the French Quarter, Jackson Square, and the Mississippi River. Your pilot will point out significant sites and share interesting facts about the city’s history and culture.

For bayou tours, you’ll venture beyond the city limits to explore the lush wetlands and swamps surrounding New Orleans. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as alligators, herons, and egrets. The pilot will also highlight unique features like the abandoned Six Flags theme park and the Chalmette Battlefield.

Throughout the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to take photos and videos, creating lasting memories of your aerial adventure. The flight will conclude with a smooth landing back at the heliport, where you can share your experiences with fellow passengers and the tour staff.

Enhancing Your Helicopter Tour Experience

To make the most of your helicopter tour in New Orleans, consider the following tips:

• Photography: Bring a camera or smartphone with a strap to secure it during the flight. Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance colors. Avoid using flash, as it can reflect off the windows and interfere with the pilot’s vision.
• Special Occasions: Helicopter tours make for a memorable way to celebrate special occasions like proposals, anniversaries, or birthdays. Some companies offer packages that include champagne, flowers, or personalized messages to make the experience even more special.

Additional Services and Features

Many helicopter tour companies in New Orleans offer additional services and features to enhance your experience:

• Private Tours: For a more intimate and personalized experience, opt for a private tour. These tours allow you to customize the route and duration to your preferences and provide a more exclusive atmosphere.
• Combined Tours: Some operators offer combined tours that include other activities, such as a swamp boat ride or a city walking tour. These packages provide a comprehensive New Orleans experience and can be a great value for those looking to explore multiple aspects of the city.
• Accessibility: Most helicopter tour companies can accommodate passengers with limited mobility, but it’s essential to inform them of any special needs or requirements when booking your tour. They will work with you to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

Testimonials and User Experiences

Visitors who have taken helicopter tours in New Orleans consistently rave about the experience, citing the stunning views, knowledgeable pilots, and smooth flights as highlights. Many describe it as a “must-do” activity and a unique way to appreciate the city’s beauty and history.

“The helicopter tour was the highlight of our New Orleans trip! The views were incredible, and our pilot was so informative and friendly. It’s a completely different perspective of the city that you can’t get anywhere else.” – Sarah, TripAdvisor Review

“We took the sunset tour, and it was absolutely breathtaking. Flying over the city as the sun was setting was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The staff was professional and made us feel safe and comfortable throughout the flight.” – Michael, Google Review

These testimonials underscore the impact that helicopter tours can have on visitors’ perceptions of New Orleans, providing a memorable and awe-inspiring experience that enhances their overall appreciation of the city.

A helicopter tour in New Orleans offers an unforgettable way to explore the Big Easy from a unique perspective. With a variety of tour options, experienced operators, and stunning views, these aerial adventures offer visitors a thrilling and educational experience that showcases the best of the city and its surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a helicopter tour is an essential addition to your New Orleans itinerary.