Frequent Questions and Answers

can i land anywhere i want?

Not quite. We need the landowners’ permission before the flight, and the site has to comply with the CAA’s restrictions on what they deem safe and legal and the Operating Manual of our AOC partner (in most cases V21 Ltd T/A  Helicopter Services Ltd) who is responsible for the safe operation of all flights. But that leaves many options away from normal airfields, including private houses, business premises and hotels that are not in built-up areas. Give us the postcodes of the locations where you would like to start and finish your journey and we will check it out for you.

can i fly at night?

The rules set by the CAA do not allow public transport flights in a single engine helicopter at night (defined as half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset). If you need to fly at night, we would quote based on a larger twin-engined helicopter which is not subject to this restriction. It is also likely that we would restrict off-airfield landings for safety reasons.

what happens if the weather is bad?

The main risks are high winds, low cloud or poor visibility. We are able to get special aviation weather forecasts from the Met Office in the days leading up to a flight, and will let you know if we are concerned that it will not be possible to fly as planned. It is ultimately the pilot’s decision, but if we have to cancel the flight, we will give you as much notice as possible and help you to make alternative arrangements if appropriate. We will give you a full refund, less the cost of any alternative arrangements. If despite the forecasts, the weather turned bad during a charter, which is only likely, on longer flights or weekend trips, then we may have to land or divert to avoid the weather, and will then continue as soon as possible, or make alternative arrangements for you to complete your trip.

can i fly to the continent in a helicopter?

Also for safety reasons, the CAA does not allow public transport flights, which includes a private charter, to be operated by a single-engined helicopter unless it is fitted with floats. We would therefore always quote for a flight to the Continent or Ireland on the basis of a twin-engined helicopter. However, for longer flights, say 300 miles or more as a single leg, it is likely that chartering a light plane (propellor or jet) will be cheaper. We can advise you on the options, and provide prices.

HOW HIGH DO YOU FLY?

It depends on the route that we’re following, but around 2000 to 3000 feet is normal. There are restrictions in certain areas due to airfields and over built-up areas for example, but this sort of height works in most circumstances. It also allows you a great view of who has swimming pools or tennis courts!

can you take photographs from the helicopter?

There are no limitations on taking photographs from the helicopter. There are sliding windows that allow you to get an even better quality image, but in most cases you will get a great picture of landmarks, your house or the crowds waiting to welcome you through the cockpit windows.

HOW NOISY IS IT IN THE HELICOPTER?

We provide headsets for all passengers and this not only keeps out the noises from the helicopter itself, but also allows you to talk easily to the pilot and the other passengers. You will also be able to hear the communications between the pilot and air traffic control. You should wear the headsets at all times, not only for your own comfort, but also in case the pilot wants to explain anything to you or ask questions, for example to let you know about a particular point of interest coming up.