subject: Discover The Grand Canyon By Helicopter Or Plane [print this page] If you only have a day or two of free time, what's the best way to see the Grand Canyon? Take an air tour. By getting airborne in a helicopter or plane, you give yourself the best chance to see as much of the Park as possible.
The Rims
Air tours are available only at the West Rim and the South Rim. Coming from Las Vegas, the West Rim would likely be your destination. If you are thinking of visiting the South Rim, ten you will need to take a 45-minute flight. That being the case, it is recommended to visit the South Rim if you are coming from Phoenix, Scottsdale, or Sedona.
The Trip by Helicopter
The West Rim is the only place where you can ride a helicopter to the bottom of the Grand Canyon. The tours take off from Las Vegas. If you want to expand your experience, look into a river rafting trip. If you have ever been so inclined to walk past the edge of the canyon, the Grand Canyon Skywalk allows you to do just that via the glass bridge.
From the Grand Canyon Airport you will head to the South Rim. There's only one type of flight. Before turning back at the North Rim, the flight will pass over the Kaibab Plateau and into the Dragon Corridor. This flight will last for about thirty minutes. If you wish, you can increase the air time to fifty minutes.
By Airplane
Airplane tours for the West Rim depart from Las Vegas. It takes twenty minutes to reach the rim. These tour packages can involve air-only or even landing tours that have the upgrade potential for rafting, Skywalk tickets, and of course, helicopter rides.
Airplane trips to the South Rim depart from Tusayan, ten minutes from the National Park. These flights will last about one hour, and travel all three rims. The most popular upgrade is the 1 day Grand Canyon rafting tour, which starts at Glen Canyon Dam finishes 15 miles downstream at historic Lee's Ferry.
Additionally there is a Las Vegas to South Rim plane tour. This flight will take less than one hour. When you finally land, you will have seen half the canyon. A popular upgrade is the helicopter tour.
Meet the Aircraft
Your helicopter tour could be carried out on either the AStars or Ecostar 130s. In most cases, the EcoStar is an upgrade. The addition of 25 percent more space is part of the upgrade. In addition to having theater style seats, it also has quite a bit of leg room. I also like the 180-degree wraparound windshield and the Fenestron tail rotor, which delivers one of the smoothest rides in the sky.
There are some people who believe only small aircraft view the Grand Canyon. This is not true. These tours are conducted aboard a Vistaliner. This plane can hold up to 19 passengers, has oversized windows, and even ceiling windows that allow you to get the best view. Two FAA pilots control this plane with the best navigational equipment in the industry. How to Get A Great Deal
Never pay retail price. Shop Online. The internet typically has the best deals. I regularly see special online promotions that slash prices on air tours by up to 35 percent. You could also book in advance. Don't wait until the last minute or you will end up paying a premium.
It's Time to Take Off!
A tour of the Grand Canyon can be a life changing experience. Views from the air are outstanding! If you want to take it even further however, add one of the side trips we mentioned. This is a great place to explore. There's no better way to explore than with an air tour.
