Choosing an operator well
This site recommends no specific operator and rates no operator's safety record. Here's how to evaluate one on what they put in writing, and where to verify certification independently.
- We list categories of legitimate tour and charter operators and marketplaces, not a ranked list of specific companies.
- Nothing here is an endorsement, safety rating, or verification of any operator's certificate, insurance or record.
- Verify an operator's FAA certificate status and any safety history directly with the FAA and NTSB, linked on the resources page.
Licensed tour and charter operators
Operators offering sightseeing tours, transfers and private charter in major markets, typically holding a Part 135 operating certificate for commercial flights.
Check yourself: Ask for their FAA operating certificate details and check the FAA's registry directly — don't rely solely on marketing claims.
Tour and experience marketplaces
Platforms like Viator listing helicopter tours alongside other experiences, useful for comparing pricing and customer reviews before booking.
Check yourself: Confirm the marketplace's cancellation and dispute process, and read the actual operator's terms, not just the listing description.
Questions worth asking
- Can you give me the all-in price, including fuel surcharge, fees and tax?
- What aircraft type will I be on, and what's its passenger and weight capacity?
- What's your policy for a weather-related delay or cancellation?
- What are the cancellation terms if my own plans change?
- What's included in the price, and what would be an additional cost?
- What happens if the aircraft becomes unavailable close to my flight date?
Send us the quote that doesn't add up
This is not a booking and nothing is reserved. We are not an operator or a certificate holder — where a relevant provider category can help, we'll say which and why, and you decide whether to contact them.