Hilo: Doors-Off Helicopter Lava and Rainforests Adventure

Step aboard a doors-off helicopter and soar over Hawaii’s captivating landscapes. This thrilling adventure takes you on an aerial tour of active volcanoes, cascading waterfalls, and lush rainforests. The pilot’s live commentary provides intriguing insights, while the optional window seat upgrade delivers an unparalleled viewing experience. Catering to thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike, this FAA and ISBAO-certified tour promises an unforgettable journey. So, are you ready to witness the contrast between volcanic power and verdant splendor from a unique aerial perspective?

This experience made our list of the 10 Best Helicopter Flights And Tours In Big Island of Hawaii.

Key Points

• Offers a thrilling helicopter tour with doors off to provide unparalleled views of Hawaii’s active volcanoes, lava flows, and lush rainforests.

• Includes two-way headset communication with the pilot for live commentary and a light jacket to keep passengers comfortable.

• Features multiple departure times from Hilo International Airport and an optional upgrade to guarantee a window seat.

• Adheres to strict safety protocols, with FAA and ISBAO certified pilots and aircraft, ensuring a reliable and safe experience.

• Advises against participation for those with certain medical conditions, and has weight restrictions to maintain helicopter stability.

Overview of the Adventure

The Doors-Off Helicopter Lava and Rainforests Adventure whisks participants over the dramatic landscapes of Hawaii’s Big Island, showcasing the island’s volcanic wonders and lush tropical forests.

This exhilarating tour provides a bird’s-eye view of active volcanoes, flowing lava, and cascading waterfalls. With two-way headset communication and live commentary from the pilot, guests gain insider knowledge of the incredible sights below.

The tour also includes a light jacket to keep passengers comfortable during the flight. Catering to thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike, this doors-off helicopter experience delivers an unparalleled perspective of Hawaii’s natural marvels.

With multiple departure times available and an option to guarantee a window seat, this adventure is a must-do for visitors to the Big Island.

Included in the Tour

This Doors-Off Helicopter Lava and Rainforests Adventure includes two-way headset communication with the pilot, allowing guests to engage in live commentary on board. Passengers also receive a light jacket to keep them comfortable during the exhilarating flight over the Big Island’s volcanic landscapes and lush rainforests.

The tour includes meeting at the Hilo International Airport, ensuring a seamless start to the experience.

Whether you choose to upgrade to a guaranteed window seat or opt for one of the multiple departure times available, this FAA and ISBAO certified operator will provide an unforgettable aerial perspective of Hawaii’s natural wonders, from active volcanoes and cascading waterfalls to mesmerizing lava flows and verdant rainforests.

Exploring Volcanoes and Rainforests

Soaring over the Big Island’s otherworldly landscapes, guests on this Doors-Off Helicopter Lava and Rainforests Adventure will be treated to a captivating aerial showcase of Hawaii’s volcanic wonders and lush, verdant rainforests.

The pilot’s live commentary will guide you as you fly over steaming lava flows, massive craters, and cascading waterfalls. Peer down into the depths of fiery volcanoes, then bank over the island’s tropical forests, spotting the vibrant foliage and winding rivers below.

This once-in-a-lifetime experience offers an unparalleled perspective on Hawaii’s dynamic natural beauty, from the dramatic volcanic landscapes to the verdant, lush rainforests that cover the island.

Seat Upgrade and Departure Times

For those seeking an even more immersive aerial experience, the tour offers an optional upgrade to guarantee a window seat.

Guests can choose from multiple departure times throughout the day to best fit their schedule. This ensures maximum flexibility and allows travelers to select the time slot that works best for their plans.

The tour’s FAA and ISBAO certified operator provides a variety of departure options, allowing guests to curate their ideal adventure.

Whether an early riser or a midday explorer, there are ample opportunities to soar over the Big Island’s captivating landscapes at the preferred time. This level of customization elevates the overall experience and caters to the unique needs of each visitor.

Weight and Medical Restrictions

Passengers must adhere to strict weight limitations to ensure the helicopter’s stability and safety during the aerial adventure. Guests weighing 270 lbs or more are required to purchase an additional seat, while the combined weight of front-seat passengers cannot exceed 330 lbs. These policies are in place to maintain the helicopter’s balance and performance throughout the scenic flight over volcanoes, rainforests, and lava flows.

Medical Restrictions	Reason
Not recommended for those with back problems	Helicopter turbulence could exacerbate the condition
Not recommended for those with heart conditions	Aerial maneuvers may cause discomfort or stress
Not recommended for pregnant women	The flight could potentially put the fetus at risk

The tour is also not suitable for travelers with serious medical conditions, as the remote and rugged terrain may pose additional challenges in the event of an emergency.

Pilot and Aircraft Certification

The tour operator prides itself on its commitment to safety, employing only FAA-certified pilots to navigate the aircraft. All the helicopters used in the Doors-Off Helicopter Lava and Rainforests Adventure are also FAA and ISBAO certified, ensuring the highest standards of airworthiness and maintenance throughout the aerial excursion.

The tour company’s unwavering dedication to safety is further demonstrated through the following measures:

• All pilots undergo rigorous training and testing to ensure their ability to handle the doors-off configuration safely.
• The aircraft undergo regular inspections and servicing to maintain optimal performance and reliability.
• The company’s ISBAO certification verifies its adherence to international safety and operational standards.
• Passengers are provided with detailed safety briefings before each flight, ensuring they’re well-informed and prepared for the experience.

Accessibility and Medical Conditions

Wheelchair users can partake in the Doors-Off Helicopter Lava and Rainforests Adventure, provided they bring their own caregiver to assist them.

However, the tour may not be suitable for travelers with serious medical conditions that could be exacerbated by the high-altitude flight or doors-off configuration. Guests with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnancy are advised against this activity as the doors-off helicopter experience could worsen their symptoms.

The operator takes safety seriously, and all flights are FAA-certified. While the tour is an exhilarating way to explore Hawaii’s natural wonders, individuals with certain medical conditions should consult their healthcare providers before booking to ensure their safety and comfort.

Booking and Reservation Information

Guests can easily book their Doors-Off Helicopter Lava and Rainforests Adventure through the tour operator’s website or by contacting their Hilo-based office.

Multiple departure times are available throughout the day, allowing travelers to select the option that best fits their schedule.

The booking process is straightforward, and guests can:

• Choose from a variety of departure times to suit their needs
• Upgrade to a guaranteed window seat for an enhanced aerial experience
• Provide their weight information to ensure compliance with the operator’s safety guidelines
• Coordinate their arrival at the Hilo International Airport meeting point for a seamless start to the adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, passengers are not permitted to bring their own food or drinks on the tour. The tour operator provides a light jacket for the flight, but outside food and beverages are not allowed on the helicopter.

Is There a Minimum Number of Passengers Required for the Tour?

There is no minimum number of passengers required for this tour. The operator can accommodate solo travelers as well as groups of any size. The tour will depart as scheduled regardless of the number of participants.

Do I Need to Purchase Any Additional Insurance for the Tour?

No, additional insurance is not required for this tour. The tour operator is FAA and ISBAO certified, ensuring passengers are covered by their comprehensive insurance policies. As long as participants meet the weight requirements, no extra insurance needs to be purchased.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The cancellation and refund policy typically allows full refunds for cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance. Closer to the tour date, a partial refund or credit may be offered. Policies can vary, so guests should review the details prior to booking.

Can I Take Photographs or Videos During the Helicopter Ride?

Yes, guests are encouraged to take photographs and videos during the helicopter ride. The tour operator allows and welcomes guests to capture the stunning aerial views and landscapes throughout the flight.

Recap

The Hilo: Doors-Off Helicopter Lava and Rainforests Adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness Hawaii’s natural wonders from an unforgettable aerial perspective.

Soaring over active volcanoes, flowing lava, and cascading waterfalls, passengers are immersed in the contrasting landscapes of the island.

With safety and certification prioritized, this thrilling tour caters to both thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts, providing an experience that’s not to be missed.