Helicopter Rides Edinburgh: The Ultimate Guide To Choosing The Best Tour
Experience the beauty of Edinburgh in a way you never thought possible by taking a helicopter ride. Soar above the city and see its famous landmarks, such as Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat, from a completely new perspective. Witness the natural beauty of the region as you fly over the coast and the countryside. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a helicopter ride is an unforgettable way to see Edinburgh and the surrounding area. With a variety of tour options available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Where can I get a helicopter rider in Edinburgh?
There are several companies in Edinburgh that offer helicopter rides. It’s also worth checking with helicopter charter companies in the area, as they may also be able to provide rides. If the examples I’ve provided in this post are not what you’re looking for I would recommend searching online for “helicopter rides in Edinburgh” or “helicopter tours in Edinburgh” to find a wider range of options and contact them for prices and availability. If you’re feeling very spontaneous and you want to go helicopter flying over Edinburgh today, you can take your chance with a few phones calls.
Nationwide Helicopter Rides
Explore your favourite parts of the Edinburgh area while you feel like a VIP in an executive helicopter. Choose a 18 or 25-mile flight duration. By buying a voucher you’ll be able to use it at one of many helipads around the country.
Which landmarks in the Edinburgh area are best seen from the air?
There are many landmarks in the Edinburgh area that can be seen from the air, offering you and your companions a unique perspective. Some popular options include:
- Edinburgh Castle: One of the most iconic landmarks in Scotland, Edinburgh Castle sits atop an extinct volcano and commands impressive views of the city.
- Arthur’s Seat: The highest point in Edinburgh, Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcano that offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
- The Forth Bridge: This iconic bridge spans the Firth of Forth and connects Edinburgh to Fife, offering a unique perspective on this impressive feat of engineering.
On request, you can get a view of the coast and the sea, along with the varied landscapes of Lothian and Fife.
Edinburgh Helicopter Tours
Any company offering Edinburgh helicopter tours will specialise in creating a unique and unforgettable experience for their customers and showcase the beautiful landscapes of Scotland.
Generally, the point of departure will be Edinburgh Airport, where there is a dedicated helipad, and they may offer a variety of tours such as City tour, Coast and Castle tour, Golfers tour, and many more. Each tour typically lasts around 20-30 minutes, but longer tours are also available.
The helicopters will be one of those that are well-suited for sightseeing and touring, such as the single-engine Robinson R22 or R44, or a Eurocopter AS 350, or a JetRanger. These aircraft are safe, reliable and comfortable, and they can accommodate between 3 to 6 passengers.
It’s worth noting that availability and prices for the tour might vary depending on the season, the tour chosen and the weather conditions. It’s recommended to check their website or contact the company directly for the most up-to-date information on prices, availability, and tour itinerary.
Photo by Evy Prentice on Unsplash
Where is Edinburgh Airport and how can I reach it by road or public transport?
Edinburgh Airport (IATA code: EDI) is located approximately 8 miles west of the city centre of Edinburgh, Scotland. It’s easily accessible by road or public transport.
By Road: Edinburgh airport is connected to the city centre and other areas of the city by the A8 and M8 motorways. The airport has multiple car parks available for short-term and long-term parking. Additionally, there is also a shuttle bus service for customers who park off-site.
By Public Transport: There is a regular bus service (Airport Express 100) operated by Lothian Buses which departs from St Andrew Square in the city centre and runs to the airport every 10-15 minutes . Additionally, the tram service from the city centre to the airport also runs frequently. Edinburgh Trams connect the airport to Edinburgh city centre in around 30 minutes and stop at various points along the way.
Taxi and ride-hailing services like Uber, or other ride-sharing services, are also available for transportation to and from the airport.
Cumbernauld Airport
Your Edinburgh helicopter flight may also start at this aerodrome.
Cumbernauld Airport, also known as Cumbernauld Aerodrome, is a small general aviation airport located in Cumbernauld, about 16 miles east of Glasgow. It serves the local community with a variety of aviation services such as flight training, helicopter charter, aircraft maintenance and repair, and has a small number of private aircraft based there.
The airport has a single asphalt runway, which is around 1000 metres long, and it is equipped with basic facilities like Fuel facilities, lighting system, and some hangars. It is also used by emergency services and local businesses that require air transportation.
What to wear
While the interior of a helicopter is comfortable, you will be crossing an airfield apron to reach it so it’s worth dressing for the weather outside. Here are some general guidelines for what to wear during each season:
Spring: During a Scottish spring, the weather can be unpredictable, with a mix of cool and warm temperatures. It’s a good idea to wear layers, such as a lightweight sweater or long-sleeved shirt, a light jacket, and a scarf or light scarf, so that you can easily adjust to the changing temperatures.
Summer: During the summer, it can be quite warm (but it’s not guaranteed), especially inside the helicopter, where the air conditioning might not be very strong. It’s best to wear lightweight, breathable clothing, such as shorts, t-shirts, and a light hat or sunglasses. Keep in mind that the temperature could be much cooler at altitude, and a light jacket or sweater is recommended.
Autumn: In autumn, the weather can be cool and crisp, so it’s best to wear layers, such as a sweater or long-sleeved shirt, a jacket or fleece, and a hat or scarf, to keep warm.
Winter: Scottish winters can be quite cold, so it’s important to dress warmly, in layers. Wear warm clothes such as thermal pants, sweater, and jacket, with a thick scarf and gloves. It’s also important to wear a warm hat or earmuffs to protect your head and ears from the cold.
Overall, I suggest wearing clothes that are comfortable, easy to move in, and nonrestrictive, as well as closed-toe shoes. Also, always keep in mind that, even in the summer, it is much colder at altitude and the temperature inside the helicopter might be lower than the one outside.
How long does an 18 or 25 mile helicopter ride take?
The duration of an 18-mile helicopter ride can vary depending on several factors such as the type of helicopter, the speed of the aircraft, and the weather conditions.
In general, most helicopters can travel at a speed of around 110 to 130 miles per hour (around 180-210 km/h). However, when it comes to sightseeing and touring, the speed will be slower to allow time for passengers to take in the sights and take photos. Also, due to safety reasons, the helicopter might fly at a lower altitude, and a bit slower, to avoid turbulence and ensure a smooth flight.
Based on those general assumptions, an 18-mile (about 30 kilometres) helicopter ride would typically take around 10 to 15 minutes, but again it could vary depending on specific factors. It’s best to check with the tour operator for the most accurate information about the duration of the tour you’re interested in.
Likewise, the duration of a 25-mile helicopter ride will depend on the same variables. A 25-mile (around 40 kilometres) helicopter ride would typically take around 15 to 20 minutes.
Is a short helicopter ride worth the expense?
Is a round of golf worth the expense? A SCUBA dive? Whether or not a short helicopter ride is worth the expense is a subjective matter and can vary depending on the individual and their personal preferences. However, here are some factors that might help you make your decision:
- Scenery: Taking a helicopter ride allows you to see the sights and landscapes of a region in a unique and breathtaking way that is not possible from the ground. For many people, the experience of flying over stunning natural or urban landscapes is well worth the expense.
- Convenience: Depending on the location, a helicopter ride can be a faster and more convenient way to travel compared to other forms of transportation. It can allow you to cover a lot of ground quickly, which is particularly useful for people with limited time or mobility.
- Safety: Helicopters are considered to be safe aircrafts, and modern helicopters are equipped with many advanced safety systems.
- Flexibility: Many helicopter tour operators offer flexible flight times and pick-up/drop-off options. Which can be more convenient for you, than sticking to a scheduled transport option.
- Memorable Experience: A helicopter ride can be a memorable and exciting experience, many people find the sensation of flying in a helicopter to be thrilling, and they enjoy the views and the unique experience of being up in the air.
You should also consider if you have any other expenses that you have to cover and if this is something you can afford. You may also want to do a comparison of prices from different operators, as although prices don’t vary much, the extras they lay on may be different.
Need More Info? Consider These Points
Helicopter rides in Edinburgh are an unforgettable way to experience the breathtaking beauty of the city and its surrounding areas. These thrilling helicopter trips provide a unique perspective on Edinburgh’s stunning architecture, historical landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a helicopter tour of Edinburgh will leave you in awe of the city’s beauty.
One of the most popular helicopter tours in Edinburgh is the helicopter city tour, which offers a bird’s eye view of the city’s most famous landmarks, including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Arthur’s Seat. The helicopter city tour takes you on a thrilling ride over the heart of Edinburgh, giving you a panoramic view of the city’s stunning architecture and landmarks. You can also choose to take a helicopter tour of the Forth Rail Bridge, an iconic structure that spans the Firth of Forth. This historic bridge, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a marvel of engineering and a must-see attraction for any visitor to Edinburgh.
During your helicopter tour of the Forth Rail Bridge, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the surrounding coastline and countryside. The Forth Rail Bridge helicopter tour provides a unique perspective on this iconic landmark, allowing you to appreciate its beauty and engineering from a whole new angle. You can also choose to combine your helicopter tour of the Forth Rail Bridge with a tour of the Forth Railway Bridge, which offers a closer look at the bridge’s construction and history. Overall, helicopter trips in Edinburgh are a thrilling and unforgettable way to experience the beauty of this historic and picturesque city.
Key Takeaways
Helicopter pleasure flight is the perfect way to see Edinburgh from a different perspective. You will be amazed at the views of the cityscape and landmarks. The pilot will point out local landmarks and give you an informative commentary about the city. A helicopter pleasure flight is a great way to celebrate a special occasion or just treat yourself to an unforgettable experience.
There are many helicopter tours and companies in Edinburgh that offer voucher deals. You can find these by searching online or by asking around at local tourist offices. Many of the voucher deals will be for a specific tour or company, so it is important to read the fine print before purchasing one.
When booking a helicopter ride, customers should be aware of the maximum weight limit per seat to ensure health and safety along with the comfort of fellow passengers. Additionally, children must be accompanied by an adult due to comfort and weight/balance issues in the aircraft. Finally, all flights are subject to favourable weather.
Nationwide Helicopter Rides
Explore your favourite parts of the Edinburgh area while you feel like a VIP in an executive helicopter. Choose a 18 or 25-mile flight duration. By buying a voucher you’ll be able to use it at one of many helipads around the country.
