How to Start a Helicopter Tour Business in 2024
Last Updated: 12/17/2023
Starting a helicopter tour company has been a dream of mine for years. Who wouldn’t want to run an exciting business that lets people see amazing views from up in the sky? If you too share the dream of launching your own helicopter touring company, it’s an achievable goal with the right preparation.
Choose a Business Structure
The first step is deciding on a business structure — will you be a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC or corporation? Speak with financial and legal experts to determine what makes sense for your goals and budget. Many owners start as a sole proprietorship since it’s the simplest, then later incorporate as the business grows.
Create a Business Plan
A solid business plan is crucial for guiding your heli-tour company and attracting investors. Include an overview, market analysis, operations plan, safety protocols and financials. Research your local tourism industry and sites that would make exciting aerial tour locations. Define what will set your tours apart from any competitors. Use your business plan to get financing from banks, investors or loans to purchase aircraft.
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Obtain FAA Certification
You’ll need certification from the Federal Aviation Administration to operate helicopter tours. This in-depth process examines your company’s management, operations, safety standards, aircraft maintenance and pilot training. Be ready to fully document policies, get proper insurance and prove a stellar safety record. It takes time and dedication, but FAA certification is essential.
Purchase Helicopters
A big startup cost is buying well-maintained helicopters suited for touring. Smaller companies may start with one or two helicopters. Larger operators might have 10+ aircraft. Consider passenger capacity, comfort, range and capabilities needed for planned tours. Inspect any used helicopters before purchasing. Since they are long-term investments, choose aircraft carefully.
Focus on Customer Experience
Go above and beyond to give customers an amazing aerial tour. Have experienced pilots provide engaging narration during flights. Offer comfortable headsets, scenic views and smooth flights. Make booking easy through your website and great customer service. Partner with hotels and attractions to create packages. Happy customers mean great reviews and repeat business!
Market Your Tour Company
Spread excitement about your helicopter tours through social media, your website, travel sites and local partnerships. Offer discounts for early bookings. Work with bloggers and tourism bureaus to promote tours. Use SEO, email newsletters and word-of-mouth referrals to reach potential customers. The more buzz you generate, the more tours you can sell!
Prioritize Safety
Safety must be your company’s top priority. Thoroughly train pilots, instructors and ground crew. Document protocols and emergency procedures. Carefully evaluate weather and visibility before any flight. Perform rigorous aircraft maintenance and inspections. Your stellar safety record helps ensure regulatory compliance, customer confidence and business success.
Launching a profitable, growing helicopter tour company is an attainable objective with careful planning. Obtain financing, aircraft, staffing and operating credentials. Market an amazing experience to tourists seeking unforgettable views. With passion and strategic preparation, your dream of starting a heli-tour business can take flight!
Need a Helicopter Tour Business Plan?
Create a custom business plan with financial projections and market research in minutes with ProAI’s business plan generator.
Helicopter Tour Financial Forecasts
Startup Expenses
Monthly Operating Expenses
Revenue Forecast
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What type of helicopter is best for tours?
A: The Robinson R44 is a popular choice for helicopter tour companies because it’s economical, seats 3–4 passengers, and offers excellent visibility. Larger tour operators may prefer light turbine helicopters like the Bell 206 or Airbus H120. Choose an aircraft reliable for frequent short tours while ensuring passenger comfort.
Q: How much does it cost to start a helicopter tour company?
A: Startup costs can range from $500,000 to over $1 million. Major expenses include purchasing or leasing a certified helicopter, pilot salaries, flight operation costs, insurance, training, maintenance, marketing, customer service staffing, and FAA licensing fees. Have a business plan to access financing.
Q: What qualifications do I need to operate helicopter tours?
A: You’ll need an FAA Air Carrier Operating Certificate, current pilot commercial license with a helicopter rating and tour guide experience, secure hangar and maintenance facilities, proper insurance, and excellent safety practices. Hire professionally trained staff.
Q: How do I market my helicopter tour company?
A: Promote your tours on your website, social media, travel sites, and local partners. Run targeted ads. Reach out to travel bloggers and visitors bureaus. Focus on SEO and positive online reviews. Offer discounts and hotel tour packages. Highlight scenic routes and custom experiences.
Q: What safety precautions should a helicopter tour company take?
A: Require pre-flight safety briefings, passenger waivers, and approved harnesses/headsets. Check weather conditions frequently and cancel risky flights. Perform rigorous maintenance, repairs, and aircraft inspections. Train for emergency scenarios. Carry liability insurance. Make safety the top priority at all times.
Q: What is the growth potential in the helicopter tour industry?
A: The sightseeing tour industry is projected to grow steadily at a compound annual rate of 2.7% from 2022–2027 as tourism rebounds post-pandemic. Focus on great customer experiences and partnerships to tap into this growing helicopter tour market.
