Not even a competition., Both my partner and I were lost for words by how beautiful the tour was it has to be right up there with the greatest things weve done on vacation!, This was one of the most spectacular things I have done in my lifetime (50 yrs). Where can I find more info about which companies to avoid, and what the safety records are? What that means is the pilot made a manoeuvre through carelessness or ill health that resulted in the chopper crashing. 1. The NTSB and the FAA 2. Yes Up to three helicopter crashes or incidents involving tourism helicopters are listed which involved human error, though it could be more. Harsh I know because without that Oahu is quite clean in terms of past accidents. just about anything else that you can think of, after all, what is safer than a perfect safety record. I am not saying to not book with an operator who fly the R44, as the helicopter is still a reliable machine. We will definitely be back! - Kim N, Wow! Just did a helicopter tour in April with Jack Harter. I can't tell you which ones to avoid but I can tell you that Blue Hawaiian is top notch. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 10% of Americans suffer from acrophobia. When researching Hawaii helicopter tours, safety is of the utmost importance. Islands fleet of six-passenger, Airbus (formerly Eurocopter) AStar helicopters boast paramount viewing opportunities with their custom ceiling to floor windows. With the majority of this picturesque island unreachable by car, a helicopter tour is the most ecologically friendly way to see one of the most beautiful places in the world in its entirety. I wouldnt worry about it. I subscribe to Hawaii magazine and the issue I got just last week had an article on this. HONOLULU, Hawaii (HawaiiNewsNow) - There have been 18 civilian helicopter crashes in the islands since 2015, NTSB records show. Our highly skilled pilots have many years of experience and all have a perfect safety record. That's not luck - it's the combined commitment of professional pilots and top I remember some time ago after maybe the last string of incidents there was a discussion here about the frequency with helicopter tours vs. commercial (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Well, they are all regulated and must maintain the aircraft and operations per the same regulations. WOULD YOU RATHER STAY IN THE AIR FOR THE ENTIRE TOUR OR LAND IN THE JUNGLE TO EXPLORE? Kauai is the deadliest place in Hawaii for fatal helicopter crashes nearly all of which are flights operated by tour companies with a total of 26 people killed since Jan. 1, 2000. Euphoria awaits. Does everyone realize the most dangerous part of the helicopter journey is the drive in the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? A day at the beach (look out for sharks and coconuts and dont forget the sunscreen!). When's the last time a plane went down? Jack Harter Helicopters uses excellent noise reduction headphones. We would be happy to answer any questions and put your mind at ease! Case says thats not only a noise concern for residents but puts people on the ground in danger, too. Curt has been flying aerial photography and support for over 40 years in Hawaii and is widely respected throughout the motion picture industry. The incident on Kauai is the second fatal helicopter crash in the islands this year. In addition, they are the only company on Kauai that is permitted to land at a waterfall during a helicopter tour. Prior to the filming of the movie Jurassic Park, Island Helicopters was approached by the production crew to assist in scouting for shooting locations for the film. My friend was not happy with her husband after spending a day checking out helicopters and not taking a trip. Human error is the biggest cause with incidents in Hawaii as the pilot pulls a manoeuvre or carelessly proceeds on the tour in bad weather conditions. Where high standards in helicopter maintenance is not an issue in Hawaii, accidents are usually referred to pilot error. Curt and Bonnie have kept their company small by choice, but their standards are always the highest. temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind), the company elects to fly doors-on. Because of this, tours are quiet, safe, climate-controlled, and provide spectacular views. I am a private pilot myself, and I would not spend even one second trying to investigate the safety record of any of the operators that are commercially operated. Island Helicopters Kauai, Inc. has been providing deluxe helicopter tours from the Lihue Airport longer than any other company. Without a doubt the best way to see the island in all its glory.. It is the only company on Kauai permitted to land at a waterfall during a helicopter tour, and that is the best helicopter tour on Kauai. of Jurassic Park. I know there have been crashes, injuries, deaths with certain helicopter operators. The latest happened Thursday evening, when a tour helicopter with seven people onboard crashed on its way back to Lihue. $170 Cost per person Book an unforgettable experience with the ones you love (and no one else). A family of four from Canada was on board. Since 1980, Island Helicopters provides safe, exhilarating experiences designed for adventure-seekers and families alike. His experience dates back to high school, receiving his pilots license even before his drivers license. They made our trip to Kauai one to remember. Take Jack Harter as an example. Island Helicopters Kauai, Inc. has been providing deluxe helicopter tours from the Lihue Airport longer than any other company. All six passengers ended up suing Blue Hawaiian Helicopters for negligence. What you will hear is the pilot's narration and background music specifically chosen for each part of the tour. If we're referring to helicopter tours only, over the last decade there have been eight helicopter crashes in Hawaii. Helicopter tours are safe in Hawaii regardless of the type flown; but know the Robinson R44 overall is involved more in accidents. This elite tour is 75-80 minutes (air+landing). Top Ten Ways to Protect Hawaiian Monk Seals/Dolphin protection, Geography, Geology, History and Culture of Kaua'i. Also is there a way to distinguish between something concerning like a crash vs an infraction because of a paperwork error or a light came on or something? But there are certainly other things you can ask such as the experience of your pilot for starters. The safety, comfort, and satisfaction of each customer are the main concerns. How can I take a shelter dog on a field trip? I'm assuming it would be the July issue? These are all fair questions. $96Surcharges / Fees, We just love Island Helicopters! Companies no longer doing tours are not included. HONOLULU (AP) The National Transportation Safety Board released an research document Wednesday on a The bill is pending in the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Safety records are very good as to circle island tours on (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It was very informative. I believe all the companies have pretty much the same safety records. EXPERIENCE THRILLING VIEWS OF THE ENTIRE ISLAND, INCLUDING WAIMEA CANYON, JURASSIC FALLS, We had a group of 6 ranging from late 60s to teens. Curt has been flying tours of Kauai for over 40 years and still loves every minute of it. He is one of the States highest flight time helicopter pilots with nearly 30,000 hours. Did you see Todays Groupon for world resorts international? WebThe best overall value and most flexibility in scheduling is found with Air Kauai. The last crash on Kauai happened in 2016, when a chopper touring the Na Pali Coast went down on a beach. Incidents happen that involve fatalities, but proof is in the stats that shows it is possible to walk away from a crash. Contact Us - If you only do one thing in Kauai, make it this! No Hawaiian island is without its accidents involving helicopter tours as it can happen anywhere, with Hawaii being no different to anywhere else on earth. With the majority of this picturesque island unreachable by car, a helicopter tour is the most ecologically friendly way to see one of the most beautiful places in the world in its entirety. Mauna Loa Helicopters has been offering private sightseeing tours over Kauai since 2006, and we recently expanded to offer tour operations from our island bases on Oahu and the Big Island. Of course we don't check the safety record of flights to Hawaii. Blue Hawaiian was VERY professional and makes you feel very comfortable. We have over 32 years of flying experience in the Hawaiian Island. I would not hesitate to fly with them again. A friend's husband is a helicopter pilot and they really wanted to tour Maui in one. WebWe have been providing deluxe helicopter tours from the Lihue Airport longer than any company in Hawaii, over 42 years. This helicopter ride gave me goosebumps and just felt so surreal while we were up there. Basically with only the eight helicopter tour crashes or minor incidents happening over a ten year period, it only averages one accident every fifteen months. Human error is the main cause of helicopter tour crashes where the pilot could be blamed for the accident or is in part responsible, even if its out of their hands. Free Travel Planners for Hawaii & each island, Websites & links for travel sites, attractions, restaurants, maps, lodging & more. If they crashed as often as helicopters i sure as heck would be selective in my airline choice. Curt and Bonnie have kept the company small by choice, but the standards are always the highest. Book online to book Kaui's best Helicopter Tours! At Air Kauai, the proof is in our record: over 25 years of perfect safety. Kauai is actually a natural sanctuary and this ride brought us to places youve only seen in movies. Those crashes were responsible for eight fatalities. Island Helicopters owners Curt and Bonnie Lofstedt employ a staff of 18 (on average), some of whom have been with the company for over 30 years! I don't have a link right now, but you can dig into the FAA site. It is the only company on Kauai permitted to land if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'helodays_com-leader-3','ezslot_15',116,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-helodays_com-leader-3-0');The second incident well departing Maui, actually happened on the island of Molokai. Maui themselves had two helicopter crashes - up to nine to ten years ago - but no one onboard survived. I agree with Dennis. Does everyone realize the most dangerous part of the helicopter journey is the drive in the car to get to the landing pad? WebIsland Helicopters Kauai, Inc. has been providing deluxe helicopter tours from the Lihue Airport longer than any other company. Jack has an impeccable record and has also been called upon numerous times to do rescue WebEnjoy the beautiful scenery of Kauai. Rod: I'm sorry if you've had a personal bad experience, what I wa trying to express is that anything "fun" that involves a risk is just that- so go for it, Bon Vivant! We had a great time. What started as a flight training school for helicopter pilots 22 years ago has blossomed into one of the more exclusive tour companies. All incidents are reported there. Despite that, helicopter safety is a high standard in Hawaii so the helicopter type in use then, continues to be used today. WebIf safety is a concern for you and your family definitely Safari Helicopters who have an exemplerary safety record. Highly recommend!, I was nervous to take a helicopter tour at first but was quickly having the time of my life! Helicopter safety is an ongoing improvement in Hawaii as shown with little accidents involving engine failure. Something to consider is that maintaining helicopters in the tropics is very expensive and time consuming. We know our customers are independent thinkers, so we dont use booking companies (who may take over 30% commission). This is a must do to truly see and experience Kauai. The new Times Square lacks excitement, flavor. Do not base your helicopter tour on which island has the best record, because as you can see, an accident can occur anywhere. After being highlighted in the blockbuster movie, Manawaiopuna quickly gained the nickname, Jurassic Falls. Located deep in the lush Hanapepe Valley, air tours have been flying above the picturesque waterfall for decades, but access by foot had always been restricted to family and friends invited by the Robinsons. Another Robinson R-44 went down in October 2018 when the pilot passed out twice. Over 90% of the State of Hawaii is accessible only by Kauai is home to so many romantic restaurants with delicious menu items and beautiful views. When we researched the different companies, we found Jack Harter and Air Kauai(?) IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CALL US AT 808.245.8588. Personally I would suggest Jack Harter ( Kauai) with 'doors off' though. Walk the grounds of the magnificent setting of Jurassic Park with exclusive access from Island Helicopters. Both the company and all of its pilots are FAA Certified Part 135. EXPERIENCE THRILLING VIEWS OF THE ENTIRE ISLAND, INCLUDING WAIMEA CANYON, JURASSIC FALLS, AND THE INSIDE OF MT. We did the Haleakela tour and bought the video of our flight and have not one regret. Since 1980, Island Helicopters has specialized in providing personalized tours for the independent traveler, families, and groups of all sizes. He had experienced the power of this unique natural landmark and knew it would be exactly what producers were looking for. Includes the Grand Skies Island Tour PLUS landing at the falls. turttwig, you're way, way off the mark. We had two people afraid of height's but they did fine, We did the doors off entire island tour. ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A TOUR THAT PROVIDES AN EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE NOT OFFERED BY ANY OTHER HELICOPTER TOUR? Island Helicopters has been very involved with the movie industry, participating in the filming of such Hollywood movies as Jurassic Park, Tropic Thunder, Dragonfly, King Kong, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Six Days Seven Nights, and 50 First Dates, to name a few. I would recommend a helicopter ride to anybody since you can't see most of Kauai without it. I can unsubscribe any time using the unsubscribe link at the end of all emails. In April, a Robinson R-44 went down in Kailua , killing the pilot and his two We are the only air tour company on Kauai that operates a twin-engine aircraft. Hawaii has seen 18 civilian helicopter crashes in the last five years, Maui County hospital workers on strike enter week 2, negotiations set for Monday, Hawaii News Now - Meteorologist Jen Robbins, Couple killed in house fire remembered as high school sweethearts enjoying their golden years, 'The Other Side of Paradise' with Lynn Kawano, when a tour helicopter with seven people onboard crashed on its way back to Lihue, Another Robinson R-44 went down in October 2018, plummeted out of the sky and into the water at Pearl Harbor near the Arizona Memorial, KHNLPUBLICFILE@HAWAIINEWSNOW.COM (808) 847-3246, KGMBPUBLICFILE@HAWAIINEWSNOW.COM (808) 847-3246, KFVEPUBLICFILE@HAWAIINEWSNOW.COM (808) 847-3246, KSIXPUBLICFILE@HAWAIINEWSNOW.COM (808) 847-3246, KOGGPUBLICFILE@HAWAIINEWSNOW.COM (808) 847-3246. As family friends of the Robinson family, the falls private owners, Curt had landed at the base of Manawaiopuna before. Don't hesitate to book- amazing experience. How has Kauai been affected by the floods? Since 1980, Island Helicopters has specialized in providing personalized tours for the independent traveler, for families, and groups of all sizes, best helicopter tour Kauai. $80 Surcharges / Fees. After setting down near the base of the 400-foot falls, your pilot will guide you along a jungle path adjacent to a stream to the bottom of the spectacular falls. WebAbout Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours. Magical. They truly are the best company, are very professional and our pilot Dave had a great sense of humor. They have the best record for safety in the industry. In April, a Robinson R-44 went down in Kailua, killing the pilot and his two passengers. Bonnie and Curt Lofstedt (owners of Island Helicopters) employ a staff of 18 (on average), some of which have been with them for over 30 years! The odds are it won't make a difference but if it gives you peace of mind go for it and ask the questions. Well three of the four Hawaii helicopter tour companies are still in operation today, you won't be familiar with Genesis Helicopters as they're no more. I can't in good consciences let my sister and her family fly on them. It includes our Grand Deluxe Circle Island tour PLUS a landing deep within the interior of Kauai, inaccessible to the public. I believe all the companies have pretty much the same safety records. I wouldnt worry about it. Curt personally selects and trains every In February 2016, onlookers watched in horror as a Bell 206B plummeted out of the sky and into the water at Pearl Harbor near the Arizona Memorial. Includes the Na Pali Coast, Hanalei Bay, Jurassic Falls by air, and more. Due to Kauais daily variable weather conditions (i.e. Remarkably its the island of Oahu that is involved in more helicopter tour incidents than any other island in Hawaii.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'helodays_com-leader-2','ezslot_14',115,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-helodays_com-leader-2-0'); Why that is, is hard to say but apart from the now defunct Genesis Helicopters; two of the accidents were involved by one operator - Novictor Helicopters. Call 808-246-4666 for more details, or book online now! I just received my latest issue of Hawaii magazine and it has a great article on everything you want to know about these helicopters and these company's. We did the Grand Skies Tour and it was worth every penny! Create Memories Of A Lifetime With Island Helicopters Kauai. Both the company and all of its pilots are FAA Certified Part 135. Well, all it took was that one crash and there goes that standing. Find out how we landed on this price. Bonnie would frequently hike the Na Pali Coast or Waimea Canyon with her campers, and at the end of the day, a chartered helicopter (Curt) would land and fly Bonnie and the campers back to camp. I highly recommend if doing a helicopter tour the doors off is the way to go. You dont want to ruin your Hawaii vacation (and more importantly lose your life) because you chose a helicopter company that didnt put safety first. The most dangerous thing about flying is driving to the airport. Safety records are very good as to circle island tours on Kauai, and if a helo is BEWARE of Beachfront Travel, also know as TBD (Travel By Design), It appears Hawaii Tourism doesn't want people to visit Kauai, Sleeping Giant vs Kuilau Ridge vs Waimea Canyon Trail, Kauai St regis or Big Island Four seasons. Definitely recommend this experience and I think it's totally worth the price. to have 100% safety record. 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