Are you about to embark on your first helicopter ride with Alaska Aviation? Whether you’re soaring over the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska or heading to a serene pilgrimage destination, helicopter travel is an exciting and memorable experience. We understand that, as a first-time passenger, you may have questions about what to expect and how to prepare for your flight. At Alaska Aviation, we prioritize both comfort and safety, ensuring you have a seamless experience from takeoff to landing.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect on your first helicopter ride and share essential safety guidelines to help you make the most of your journey.
1. Before the Flight: Getting Prepared
Clothing and Accessories
For your comfort, dress in layers, as temperatures in the helicopter can fluctuate based on altitude and destination. Avoid loose accessories like scarves or hats that can be blown away by the rotor’s wind. If you’re flying over Alaska’s rugged terrain, we recommend sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate outerwear.
Arrival Time
Be sure to arrive at the helipad at least 30 minutes before your scheduled flight. This allows time for check-in, a thorough safety briefing, and any necessary paperwork. At Alaska Aviation, we take pride in preparing passengers for a smooth, safe flight.
The Safety Briefing
Before boarding, our professional team will guide you through a safety briefing, where we’ll cover essential information such as seatbelt use, emergency procedures, and how to safely approach and exit the helicopter. This briefing ensures that you’re comfortable with all the necessary procedures before your adventure begins.
2. Boarding the Helicopter
Approaching the Aircraft
When boarding, always approach from the front or side of the helicopter where the pilot can see you. Avoid the tail section to steer clear of the tail rotor. Follow the ground crew’s directions carefully as they guide you to your seat.
Seatbelt and Headset
Once inside, buckle your seatbelt securely. In helicopters, we use a harness-type seatbelt for added safety. You’ll also be provided with a noise-canceling headset, which allows you to communicate with the pilot and fellow passengers while minimizing the loud rotor noise.
Personal Belongings
If you’re bringing along items like a camera or phone, ensure they’re secure, either in your pockets or a small bag. Avoid bulky luggage, as space inside the helicopter is limited. We advise using a wrist strap for cameras or phones, so they’re safe while you capture incredible aerial shots.
3. Takeoff: The Thrill Begins
Takeoff is one of the most thrilling moments of your helicopter journey. Helicopters lift off vertically, unlike airplanes, giving you a sensation of floating upwards rather than speeding down a runway. The experience is typically smooth, and you’ll feel the gradual ascent as the landscape starts unfolding beneath you.
Smooth and Controlled Ascent
Helicopter takeoffs with Alaska Aviation are designed for comfort. You’ll feel a gentle upward lift as the ground fades away, and before you know it, you’ll be flying over Alaska’s incredible terrain or toward your pilgrimage destination.
Pressure Changes
You may feel a slight change in air pressure, much like what happens during airplane takeoff. Chewing gum or swallowing can help relieve any minor ear pressure discomfort. However, this sensation is usually mild, and most passengers find it easy to adjust.
4. During the Flight: Enjoy the View
Once you’re airborne, you’ll understand why helicopter tours are a unique and exhilarating way to travel. Whether you’re gliding over glaciers, mountains, or sacred landscapes, the views are awe-inspiring.
Unobstructed Views
Alaska Aviation helicopters are equipped with large windows, offering every passenger an unobstructed view of the scenery below. You’ll witness nature’s beauty from a perspective that few people ever get to experience.
Smooth Flight
Our helicopters are designed to provide a smooth and stable flight experience. While some minor vibrations due to air currents are normal, rest assured that the ride will be comfortable.
Communication
You’ll be wearing a noise-canceling headset during the flight, allowing you to converse with the pilot and other passengers. Many of our pilots share fascinating insights about the landmarks and geography you’re flying over, adding an educational element to your adventure.
5. Safety Guidelines: Your Well-Being Comes First
At Alaska Aviation, safety is our top priority. Here are some key safety tips to keep in mind during your helicopter journey:
Listen to the Pilot and Crew
Your pilot and ground crew are highly trained professionals. Always follow their instructions, whether it’s during boarding, takeoff, or landing. They’re there to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Remain Seated and Buckled
Once you’re seated, stay buckled in throughout the entire flight. Helicopters can experience shifts in weight distribution, and sudden movements could affect the aircraft’s balance.
Keep Your Hands and Feet Inside
Avoid reaching outside the helicopter or placing anything near the windows. Keep your hands, feet, and belongings securely inside the aircraft at all times.
Emergency Procedures
Though helicopter travel is very safe, it’s important to familiarize yourself with emergency procedures during the safety briefing. Remain calm and follow the pilot’s instructions in the unlikely event of an emergency.
6. Landing: Wrapping Up Your Aerial Journey
As your helicopter ride comes to an end, the landing process is typically just as smooth as takeoff.
Gentle Descent
You’ll feel the helicopter slowly descend towards the ground. Alaska Aviation pilots are skilled at ensuring a smooth and controlled landing experience, whether you’re touching down in the wilderness, at a designated landing pad, or at a sacred pilgrimage site.
Exiting Safely
Once the helicopter has come to a complete stop and the pilot gives the all-clear, unbuckle your seatbelt and carefully exit the aircraft. Just like when boarding, follow the ground crew’s directions to safely move away from the helicopter.
7. Extra Tips for an Amazing Experience
