Santa Ana Helicopter Tours: See Orange County From Above
Thinking about seeing Orange County in a pretty different way? I mean, you could cruise down the Pacific Coast Highway, too, that’s always an option, but you might check out the top Santa Ana helicopter tours. So, imagine getting up above it all, right, and seeing those beaches, Disneyland, plus those fancy houses all at once. That is one incredible experience!
Why Choose a Helicopter Tour in Santa Ana?
Why would someone even want to pick a helicopter tour? I guess the better view is where to begin, like, way, way better. Think about seeing miles and miles of coastline and all those things on the ground that, I think, look like toys from up there. But, you get to miss all the traffic too! Plus, it feels kinda fancy and special, don’t you think? Perfect for a big day or if you want to woo somebody on a date.
So, helicopter tours aren’t always inexpensive. Like everything else, I think you get what you spend on them. That said, is that there are often special occasions where that splurge might be justified! They bring that “wow” element unlike nearly anything else!
That being said, before thinking about your tour and clicking to book, I might first do a bit of research and compare available tours on several levels: safety, comfort, price points and duration, as a minimum.
Top 5 Santa Ana Helicopter Tours
1. Elite Helicopter Tours
People like Elite Helicopter Tours for being really classy. That is to say, their helicopters are well taken care of, they’re always checking to make sure everything is as safe as can be, too it’s almost like being driven around in a Bentley, or something like that, only it flies! So, that means great seats, smooth flights and pilots who really know their stuff. One happy flyer wrote about the fantastic pilot and the really smooth ride. Seems like these tours have it all.
These guys seem to really cater to those wanting something a bit above standard or normal. So, in that regard, the flights are often private and they are super happy to custom build the trips, adding extras and bespoke items too.
- Price: $250+
- Flight Durations: 30 – 60 minutes +
2. Group 3 Aviation
I think Group 3 Aviation is a pretty good option if you are really focused on training. They offer helicopter tour-style options while you take some lessons. Their main job seems to be pilot instruction and this means they bring real competence. Touring while training in this way might appeal to some?
This would appeal to those not only wanting to see the sights, I feel, but do something constructive at the same time, that is, get closer to finally understanding the basics of piloting your own aircraft! Group 3 looks well equipped for providing these lessons and introductory flights. These intro sessions are a bit unique compared to standard scenic tours and so should be investigated by anyone who fancies having a go at flying themselves!
- Price: On enquiry
- Flight Durations: On enquiry
3. Orange County Helicopters
Orange County Helicopters will provide you with views all over. Places like Huntington Beach or even down to Laguna, those seem possible on their tours. They have different tours for how long you like in the air too, plus they are OK to take couples up for romantic days out. As I was saying, one thing that often pops up is that the rides are not bouncy at all. In short, that could make all the difference if you have a nervous person to take care of!
Based out of nearby Long Beach, these people can bring good OC experiences, so, with that in mind, it is probably worth checking how much transit to and from there would be factored into your tour timings.
- Price: $200+
- Flight Durations: 20 – 60 minutes +
4. Aerodynamic Aviation
Thinking about something a bit different? Seems like Aerodynamic Aviation could fit that bill. Their fleet and expertise cover both helicopter and fixed-wing flying experiences, still, they are all about taking to the air. As a matter of fact, safety gets mentioned a lot by most clients looking at the internet reviews. This might be important to people seeking more secure rides!
Offering instruction courses as well as pleasure flights. Aerodynamic Aviation aims to expose everyone to airbourne experiences!
- Price: On enquiry
- Flight Durations: On enquiry
5. Robinson Helicopter Company
Did you know, so the Robinson Helicopter Company isn’t exactly a tour company? I mean, they’re one of the giants making helicopters. And they are even based right in Torrance, which is actually kinda near Santa Ana, still, it is down the road. However, is that if you’re super into helicopters, this place might be one incredible visit. If you can make that happen, then this is more the place for hardcore fans, clearly.
Getting a look inside such a facility will certainly please those fans who appreciate the details. Robinson also opens its doors periodically, too. So, it is certainly worth watching out for these events for helicopter fans if they are of interest!
What to Expect on Your Helicopter Tour
Alright, what’s actually going to happen when you arrive for the day? So, most of the time you should get there a bit early so the ground crew can give the all important safety instructions, naturally. You may be introduced to your pilot if this has not already been the case at time of booking, in some respects, the crew have safety as their priority.
The whole ride generally should take up the time booked and no, I don’t mean including the delays of the freeway to get there. But you might consider taking into account that helicopter operations are surprisingly sensitive to various conditions. To be honest, this includes but is not limited to temperature and humidity on any given day!
It is totally worth being aware and listening out for the crew’s safety briefing. To put it simply, they only deliver this because, actually, the information might keep you safer when in the air!
The chopper may feel bumpy and even a little shaky, yet modern machines are remarkably efficient for those pleasure tours. So, don’t let the perceived movement alarm you.
Tips for Booking Your Santa Ana Helicopter Tour
- Book Ahead: The best tours go quick. So, try not to wait until the last minute.
- Weather Check: If it is not a great weather day, flights may get cancelled. Verify your options with each service provider as you search for available tickets.
- Read conditions: Double check all the fine print stuff. Still, this avoids bumps along the way.
- Clothing: This seems simple, anyway, dressing with layers often ensures comfort, very.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are helicopter tours safe?
They should be! Like all flights, yet. Any good operator spends the time upfront ensuring their machines are super ready. Ensuring the tour operators have appropriate documentation and safety accreditations before flying will greatly increase the potential safety and peace of mind for flyers.
What is the cost of a helicopter tour in Santa Ana?
The money needed could be very variable and tour dependent, in other words. I feel something pretty short could be around $200, although those longer and more bells-and-whistles kinds of tours could easily be thousands, still. That of course depends on which level of experience you prefer, yet.
What can I bring on the helicopter?
Just the must haves might be what’s up. That is to say, small bags are probably best because room could be limited, as I was saying. If you aren’t sure, checking this at time of booking, may be useful.
Phones and cameras, naturally, will be ok too, clearly, still. Make sure that those things have proper straps just in case! So, you don’t want those falling down to the streets below!
