grand canyon helicopter tour deaths

Grand Canyon tragedies: A list of incidents, deaths at Arizona's landmark

Every year, millions of people visit Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona , and incidents, some resulting in tragedies, happen from time to time.

Here's a look at some of the incidents that have happened in the area in recent years.

Here is information from Grand Canyon National Park on how to stay safe while visiting.

Virginia man dies while hiking Grand Canyon trail

A man from Virginia died while hiking in the Grand Canyon. National Park Service officials say they received an emergency call just before 2 p.m. on Sept. 9 of a hiker in distress on the North Kaibab Trail one mile south of Cottonwood Campground.

Hiker dies amid extreme heat in Grand Canyon

Officials say a 57-year-old woman died while hiking in the Grand Canyon last weekend.

Man falls more than 4,000 feet from Grand Canyon skywalk to his death

A 33-year-old man has died after he plummeted from the Grand Canyon's skywalk attraction, according to the Mohave County Sheriff's Office.

Hiker dies in Grand Canyon National Park during an attempt at a difficult trek, NPS says

The National Park Service says a woman who was attempting to hike to the Colorado River and back in a day was found dead in Grand Canyon National Park.

Wisconsin man dies while hiking Grand Canyon trail

A man from Wisconsin died while hiking on a trail in the Grand Canyon, officials said.

7 hurt when Grand Canyon tour helicopter makes hard landing

The pilot and six passengers were taken to hospitals in Las Vegas and suburban Henderson for treatment of injuries that Boulder City spokesperson Lisa LaPlante called not life-threatening.

Grand Canyon National Park motorboat incident on Colorado River leaves 1 dead, multiple injured

The Grand Canyon National Park Service received a report of a flipped motorboat on the Colorado River at Bedrock Rapid in Arizona.

Arizona woman dies while backpacking in Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon National Park Service says Delphine Martinez, a resident of Window Rock, was on a multi-day backpacking trip on Sept. 4 when she was found unconscious along the Thunder River Trail, about one mile from the confluence of Tapeats Creek and the Colorado River.

Man found dead in Grand Canyon after falling 200 feet from North Rim

The 44-year-old visitor had reportedly fallen 200 feet from the rim west of Bright Angel Trail.

Canadian woman dies while hiking out of Grand Canyon

The victim was identified as 41-year-old Melanie Goodine from Ottawa, Ontario. Officials say she was hiking out of the Grand Canyon after hiking to the Colorado River earlier in the day.

Grand Canyon visitor falls 20-feet to her death, park officials say

A woman visiting the Grand Canyon from Utah was killed when she suffered a 20-foot fall on April 4, says the National Park Service.

Colorado woman dies during boating trip at Grand Canyon

Mary Kelley, a 68-year-old woman from Steamboat Springs, Colorado, entered the river at the top of Hance Rapid. Members of her group pulled her out of the water, discovered she was unresponsive and began CPR.

Scottsdale man found dead in Grand Canyon

During an aerial search, the body of 57-year-old Ralph Stoll was found between Yuma Point and Dripping Springs.

Search at Grand Canyon turns up remains of another person

Body of Hungarian man missing since July recovered in Grand Canyon

Gabor Berczi-Tomcsanyi, 45, is a Hungarian national who was believed to have visited the South Rim on or around July 19. His body was recovered Monday approximately 430 feet below the rim.

NPS: Multiple people struck by lightning during monsoon storm at Grand Canyon

Officials say lightning strikes an average of 25,000 times per year in Grand Canyon National Park.

Hiker dies on Bright Angel Trail in Grand Canyon

The victim became unresponsive near Mile-and-Half Resthouse after returning from a day trip to Plateau Point. Witnesses at the scene performed CPR until rescue crews arrived. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

Louisiana man dies while hiking Bright Angel Trail in Grand Canyon

Rodney Hatfield, from Washington, Louisiana, had reportedly been on a multi-day hiking trip and was returning from Phantom Ranch when he started having trouble hiking up Bright Angel Trail.

Flash flooding sweeps Arizona; 1 rafter dead in Grand Canyon

Ohio woman dies from suspected heat-related illness while backpacking in Grand Canyon National Park

A spokeswoman for the Grand Canyon National Park said it has recently seen an uptick in heat-related illness.

Illinois man found dead on South Kaibab Trail at Grand Canyon National Park

A hiker has died on the South Kaibab Trailhead at Grand Canyon National Park, park officials say.

Ohio woman dies backpacking Grand Canyon; possibly heat-related

A backpacker has died on the Tonto Trail at Grand Canyon National Park, park officials say. The death could be heat-related.

Colorado man dies during boating trip at Grand Canyon

Sixty-three-year-old James Crocker of Lakewood, Colorado was on a multi-day private boating trip when he was pulled from the water by other members of his group.

Parents of Man Who Died After Grand Canyon Helicopter Crash to Receive $100m Settlement

A routine tourist helicopter ride across the Grand Canyon went tragically wrong in February 2018. Airbus EC130 B4 spun out of control before crashing and bursting into flames. The crash was thought to be caused by a “ violent gust of wind .” Five individuals were killed, all British, as a result of the accident.

A Nevada court awarded a $100 million dollar payout to the parents of one of the victims, Jonathan Udall, 31. Jonathan was on vacation in Las Vegas with his newlywed wife, Ellie, and friends. The group were celebrating one member’s 30th birthday and the Udall’s marriage.

Per a settlement approved by a Nevada judge on Friday, Jonathan’s parents will receive $24.6 million from Papillon Airways Inc., the company that operated the helicopter, and $75 million from Airbus Helicopters SAS, which manufactured the aircraft.

The plaintiffs argued that the helicopter was unsafe to fly because it did not have a crash resistant fuel system on board. This caused the helicopter to burst into flames upon impact, and left their son Jonathan with burns on 90% of his body. Udall survived for 12 days in the hospital before succumbing to his wounds.

“The Udall family wants to shine a spotlight on this issue so the industry will take note and voluntarily seek to correct this public health issue. They don’t want anyone else to go through what their son went through in an otherwise survivable accident—not a broken bone. He would have walked away,” a lawyer for the Udalls told the Associated Press .

In 2020, the Federal Aviation Administration issued new regulations that require all helicopters to carry crash resistant fuel systems to prevent them from catching fire in accidents.

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Family of tourist among 5 killed in Grand Canyon helicopter crash wins $100M settlement

RENO, Nev. (AP) — A Nevada judge has approved a $100 million cash settlement to the parents of a British tourist who was among five killed — including his newlywed wife — when a helicopter crashed and burst into flames in the Grand Canyon in 2018.

Under the settlement approved in Las Vegas on Friday, the family of Jonathan Udall, 31, will receive $24.6 million from the operator of the helicopter, Papillon Airways Inc., and $75.4 million from its French manufacturer, Airbus Helicopters SAS.

The family's lawyer, Gary C. Robb of Kansas City, Missouri, said they insisted the settlement terms be made public to raise awareness about aircraft fuel tanks they say are prone to rupturing.

“The parents say the fuel tank was basically a fire bomb,” Robb told The Associated Press late Monday.

Lawyers for the defendants, Eric Lyttle for Airbus Helicopters Inc., and William Katt for Papillon Airways, confirmed the terms, according to a transcript of a hearing Friday in Clark County District Court.

They did not immediately return calls late Monday or respond to emails Tuesday from The Associated Press.

Jonathan and Ellie Milward Udall, 29, boarded the helicopter from Boulder City, Nevada, with the three others who were killed. They were touring the Grand Canyon on the Hualapai reservation, outside the boundaries of the national park, when the crash happened.

The family’s lawsuit alleged the helicopter was unsafe because it lacked a crash-resistant fuel system that's now required for aircraft built after the Federal Aviation Administration issued new regulations in 2020.

Robb said some helicopter manufacturers have voluntarily replaced the fuel tanks grandfathered in under the FAA regulations but many have not.

“The Udall family wants to shine a spotlight on this issue so the industry will take note and voluntarily seek to correct this public health issue. They don’t want anyone else to go through what their son went through in an otherwise survivable accident — not a broken bone. He would have walked away.”

The Airbus EC130 B4 crashed just before sunset in February 2018 in a section of the Grand Canyon where air tours aren’t as highly regulated as in the national park. Three of the British tourists on board were pronounced dead at the scene: veterinary receptionist Becky Dobson, 27; her boyfriend and car salesman Stuart Hill, 30; and Hill’s brother, 32-year-old lawyer Jason Hill.

Jonathan Udall, of Southampton, and Ellie Udall later died of complications from burn injuries. His parents claimed in the lawsuit that their son could have survived if not for the post-fire crash.

All of them were on the trip to celebrate Stuart Hill’s birthday.

Robb said helicopter manufacturers have been aware the old-fashioned, hard-plastic fuel tanks are prone to rupturing during hard landings.

“The fuel pours onto the passengers, then ignites. It’s just horrible," he said. “The three people on the right side of the aircraft never escaped. They were completely burned in their seats.”

The National Transportation Safety Board said turbulent winds were a probable cause of the loss of control and tail-rotor effectiveness before the hard landing outside the national park boundaries.

Its final accident report in January 2021 said the investigation found no evidence of mechanical problems with the helicopter but noted it lacked a crash-resistant fuel system. The helicopters in Papillon’s fleet weren’t required to have them, but the company has since retrofitted the aircraft with fuel tanks that expand and seal upon impact instead of rupturing.

The pilot Scott Booth fractured his lower left leg, and passenger Jennifer Barham had a spinal fracture. They also suffered severe burns but survived. Since then, both of Booth's legs have been amputated, he said.

Papillon Helicopters spokesman Matt Barkett said in an email to AP on Tuesday that safety is the company’s top priority. He noted the NTSB concluded there were no mechanical problems “and our pilot was not found to be at fault due to the extreme weather conditions.”

“Crash resistant fuel cells were installed in Papillon’s entire fleet once the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved their use in the months following this accident. We continue to extend our sympathies to the families of the victims and now close this difficult chapter in our history,” he wrote.

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Grand Canyon helicopter crash victim dies, 3 still critical

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LAS VEGAS (AP) — A British tourist who was pulled from the wreckage of a fiery helicopter crash in the Grand Canyon died from his injuries Thursday, according to Nevada authorities.

Clark County Coroner John Fudenberg confirmed in a statement that Neil Udall, 31, died at University Medical Center of Southern Nevada.

He had been with a group of fellow Britons visiting Las Vegas when a sightseeing helicopter they were flying in crashed in part of the Grand Canyon on Feb. 10. Three of Udall’s friends died.

Udall was one of four people, including the pilot, who were hospitalized after the crash. The other survivors are the 42-year-old pilot Scott Booth; Ellie Milward, 29; and Jennifer Barham, 39.

Hospital spokesman Scott Kerbs said all three remained in critical condition Thursday.

The crash killed veterinary receptionist Becky Dobson, 27; her boyfriend Stuart Hill, a 30-year-old car salesman; and his brother, Jason Hill, a 32-year-old lawyer. The friends, who were in Las Vegas to celebrate Stuart Hill’s birthday, opted to take a Grand Canyon sightseeing helicopter tour on tribal land.

Unlike the more tightly regulated air tours within Grand Canyon National Park, helicopters quickly deposit tourists on the Hualapai reservation and within the canyon for lunches, hikes or pontoon boat rides. Just as quickly, they whisk them away. In the peak season, the reservation has 350 to 400 flights per day, the Federal Aviation Administration said.

The Airbus EC130 B4 crashed just before sunset. Guests attending a wedding and people on the canyon’s rim saw smoke billowing from the canyon and the aircraft in flames.

The same helicopter had sustained minor damage in 2012 when its nose touched the ground as the pilot attempted to land at the bottom of the canyon. No injuries were reported.

A preliminary report released Wednesday says the helicopter made at least two 360-degree turns before crashing. But the National Transportation Safety Board doesn’t say what caused the crash. A full NTSB report won’t be completed for more than a year.

Helicopter Crash Kills 6 After Grand Canyon Tour

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The pilot and five passengers were killed Friday afternoon when a helicopter crashed while returning from a tourist flight over the Grand Canyon.

A 23-year-old woman survived the crash. She was listed in critical condition after being airlifted to the University Medical Center in Las Vegas with burns over 80% of her body.

The passengers were family members from the New York City area vacationing here together, according to sources close to the investigation.

They were staying at an upscale Las Vegas Strip hotel, sources said, and had signed on for a three-hour, $317-per-person tour featuring a champagne picnic along the Colorado River.

The helicopter, a Eurocopter AS350, crashed at 2:30 p.m. into a ridgeline above the Arizona high desert, about 60 miles east of Las Vegas.

Little remained of the aircraft. Some wreckage was strewn more than 50 feet across the rise, on land governed by the federal Bureau of Land Management outside the Grand Canyon National Park.

The first helicopters to reach the scene were from the same tour company, following the same flight pattern. They were ordered away so emergency aircraft could approach, said Bert Byers, spokesman for the Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

Friday evening, the National Transportation Safety Board was preparing to send crash investigators to the scene from Los Angeles. They are expected to take over the investigation today, an NTSB spokesman said.

There were no immediate clues to the cause of the crash, one of several in and around the Grand Canyon in recent years.

“We have no idea what went wrong,” said Laura Brown, public relations chief for the Federal Aviation Administration in Washington.

The helicopter was operated by Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters, which is headquartered in Arizona but flies more than a dozen tours daily from McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas.

Company officials declined comment Friday afternoon. Family and friends of the victims were sequestered inside the company’s airport offices, at the south end of the Strip, and were comforted later in the day by an Orthodox rabbi.

“They are in an incredible state of shock,” Rabbi Felipe Goodman, of Temple Beth Sholom of Las Vegas, told Associated Press. “They’re trying to put together and see what’s next.”

Five helicopter companies operate tours out of McCarran airport, collectively offering about 90 tours daily over the Grand Canyon, said airport spokeswoman Hilarie Grey.

The Grand Canyon and the desert around it have been the site of multiple helicopter and fixed-wing plane crashes over the years.

Because of the danger of flying below or at the level of the canyon rim, and because of protests from environmentalists about disruptions to the canyon’s quiet, the federal government in 1987 banned flights below the rim and restricted planes to certain corridors. Restrictions have been added since then.

In 1986, a sightseeing airplane and a helicopter collided several hundred feet below the canyon’s lower north rim, killing all 20 on board the plane and the five in the helicopter.

Most of the deadly accidents have involved small sightseeing airplanes. Among them: one in 1995 that killed eight of 10 people aboard, a 1992 crash that killed all 10 aboard, one in 1991 that killed all seven on board and one in 1989 that killed 10 and injured 11.

The most recent helicopter crash occurred in 1999, killing the pilot and injuring a second person, also a pilot. There were no tourists aboard.

About 750,000 tourists take about 50,000 flights over the park each year, officials estimate. Travel experts consider the Grand Canyon the helicopter tour capital of the country, feeding a $100-million-plus industry.

On its Web site, Papillon boasts it is the world’s largest helicopter sightseeing company. Its largest helicopter, the one that crashed Friday, has a glass floor. The Web site notes, too, that should a helicopter engine fail, “the rotor blades will continue to turn at normal operating speeds, allowing the pilot to make a fully controlled landing.”

Gorman reported from Las Vegas and Malnic from Los Angeles. Times researcher John Jackson also contributed to this story.

(BEGIN TEXT OF INFOBOX / INFOGRAPHIC)

Deadly Crash

An AS350 helicopter returning from the Grand Canyon crashed five miles east of Meadview, Ariz., killing the pilot and five passengers and severely injuring one passenger. The AS350 helicopter:

* Maximum capacity: 1 pilot plus 6 passengers

* Manufacturer: Eurocopter

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Grand Canyon flights have deadly history

The Papillon Airways helicopter crash that killed three people and critically injured four Saturday was neither the first air disaster to happen at the Grand Canyon nor the most deadly. 

Fatal airplane and helicopter wrecks in or near the Canyon date back more than six decades. The largest happened in 1956, when two airliners collided, killing the 128 people on board. 

Here's a look at that and other crashes that have claimed lives at the Canyon.

June 30, 1956:  A Trans World Airlines plane collides with a United Airlines plane  after both flights depart from Los Angeles. All 128 people on board die.

June 18, 1986: A twin-engine aircraft and a helicopter, both on sightseeing tours, collide. The crash kills all 25 people aboard.

Sept. 27, 1989: A tourist plane crashes outside Grand Canyon National Park Airport, killing 10 people and injuring 11 otherrs.

May 13, 1991: Six European tourists and their pilot die when a tour plane crashes and burns about 3 miles south of the Grand Canyon's Grandview Point.

Feb. 13, 1995: Eight people die when a twin-engine plane crashes in the woods after takeoff from the Grand Canyon airport. A woman and a teenage girl survive. 

Aug. 2, 1996: A personal flight en route to Colby, Kansas kills the pilot after the plane collides with a canyon wall. 

Oct. 5, 1996 : Four people from Belgium die after a Cessna 172 tries to make an emergency landing on a road inside the national park, crashing into the surrounding forest instead. 

April 2, 1997: A plane en route to Las Vegas  crashes in mountainous terrain on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon . The pilot dies.

April 1, 1999 :   A plane crashes into a tree  after losing engine power shortly after takeoff from the Grand Canyon airport. The pilot dies.

Aug. 10, 2001 : A Papillon Airways tour helicopter crashes during an "uncontrolled descent" about 4 miles east of Meadview, Arizona. The pilot and five passengers die as a result of the wreck and subsequent fire. One passenger survives. 

Sept. 20, 2003:  An Aerospatiale helicopter, operated by Sundance Helicopters, crashes into a canyon wall while maneuvering through Descent Canyon , east of Grand Canyon West Airport. The pilot and six passengers die.

May 18, 2014:   A 2014 Eurocopter AS350 helicopter rolls over, killing the pilot. 

Feb. 10, 2018 : A Papillon Airways helicopter carrying seven people crashes  under "unknown circumstances" during a tour of the west side of the Canyon. Three people die and four are seriously hurt.

Grand Canyon helicopter crash: 'We're in the recovery and investigation mode'

Rescue continues after 3 dead, 4 injured in helicopter crash in Grand Canyon

Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters involved in 3 other deadly incidents in 20 years

7 hurt as Grand Canyon tour helicopter makes hard landing

LAS VEGAS, NV (AP) — A Grand Canyon tour helicopter made a hard landing at a Las Vegas-area airport, injuring seven people, officials said Wednesday. Authorities are investigating the cause.

Local responders and the National Transportation Safety Board characterized it as a “hard landing” around 4:30 p.m. Tuesday at Boulder City Municipal Airport, while the Federal Aviation Administration called it a crash while landing.

A photo posted on Facebook showed the red helicopter upright in a flat desert area. There were no reports of a fire.

The pilot and six passengers were taken to hospitals in Las Vegas and suburban Henderson for treatment of injuries that Boulder City spokesperson Lisa LaPlante called not life-threatening.

The FAA said it is investigating, and the NTSB identified the operator of the Airbus Helicopters EC130 T2 as Las Vegas-based Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopter air tours.

Papillon representatives did not immediately respond Wednesday to a telephone message.

FlightAware, an air traffic database, reported that the 25-minute flight originated at the Grand Canyon near Kingman, Arizona, and was headed for the Boulder City airport. Boulder City is a 30-minute drive from downtown Las Vegas.

NTSB spokesperson Peter Knudson said a preliminary report should be available within about three weeks.

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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AIR CRASH KILLS 25 AT GRAND CANYON

By Judith Cummings, Special To the New York Times

• June 19, 1986

A twin-engine plane and a helicopter carrying vacationers on sightseeing tours above the Grand Canyon collided today, killing 25 people and leaving charred wreckage on a canyon wall.

The authorities said there were no survivors.

The collision occurred in an area called Scorpion Creek near Crystal Rapids, about 15 miles from the National Park Service Visitor Center at the south rim of the canyon. Plane's Fuselage Visible

The collision came just at the start of the peak tourist season at the Grand Canyon, during a year in which park officials are expecting extremely heavy park use because of public uncertainty over travel overseas. The crash focused attention on an ongoing debate on restricting flights over the national park because of concerns over both noise and safety. [ Page A18. ] From 2,000 feet above the crash site all that was visible was the blackened remains of the plane's fuselage. The white wings could be seen clearly against a plateau about half a mile from the river's bank.

The airplane, a twin-engine Otter operated by Grand Canyon Airways, was carrying 18 passengers and a two-member crew. The Bell 206 turbine-powered helicopter, carrying five people, was owned and operated by Helitech Choppers. The two carriers are among about 40 air tour operators that take excursions into the canyon by air.

Butch Farabee, a park spokesman, said that in the last five years there had been 28 deaths in nine air crashes in the Grand Canyon. All involved helicopers and small aircraft.

The plane and the helicopter had taken off for scenic flights a short time before the 9:40 A.M. crash, said Blanca Alvarez, a spokesman in the superintendent's office at Grand Canyon National Park. They flew out of Tusayan, just south of the canyon, she said. May Have Been Below Rim

A Forest Service fire spotter said the two craft might have been flying beneath the canyon's rim, a practice discouraged but not prohibited by the Federal Aviation Administration.

''The two aircraft plunged to the floor of the canyon in a fiery crash,'' a spokesman for the National Transportation Safety Board said in Washington. The crash was reported by a helicopter pilot who spotted two puffs of smoke, the park spokesman said.

''To our knowledge, the actual midair collision was not witnessed,'' Lieut. Jim Driscoll of the Coconino Country Sheriff's Office told United Press International. ''Some other aircraft in the area saw the smoke and flew over the wreckage at that time.''

Charlie Peterson, a National Park Service river ranger who was the first official to fly over the scene, reported, ''I saw two aircraft totally involved in flames - about 30 to 40 feet high.'' Mr. Peterson said the bodies of two people were thrown from the helicopter. He said the fire was so intense that hot molten aluminum ran down the hillside from the wreckage, about 3,800 feet below the canyon's North Rim. Fire Burned for Hours

The aircraft burned for several hours, said the Coconino County Sheriff, Joe D. Richards. He said it would be a ''very complex problem'' to identify the charred remains of the victims.

The passengers on the plane included 4 Americans, 11 Dutch nationals, 2 from Switzerland and a South African, said a deputy superintendent of the park, John Guthrie. Three West Germans and two Americans, including the pilot, were aboard the helicopter, he said.

Sheriff Richards said the pilots of the plane were identified as James Ingraham and Bruce Grubb. The helicopter pilot was John Thybone. Their ages and hometowns were not immediately reported. The identities of the passengers were withheld until relatives and embassy officials could be notified.

Rescue crews were flown to the scene by helicopter, and a temporary morgue was set up in Flagstaff, 80 miles away.

Lieutenant Driscoll told U.P.I. that none of the bodies would be moved until Thursday. ''The fire is out now but the area is still hot, preventing anything being done to remove bodies,'' he said. #1956 Crash Is Recalled The accident recalled a crash June 30, 1956, between a Trans World Airlines Super-Constellation and a United Airlines DC-7. The planes collided over the Grand Canyon, killing 128, at the time the worst domestic airplane crash.

Another sightseeing airplane crashed in the canyon on Aug. 17, 1983, killing the pilot and nine passengers. That crash, and a related recommendation by the transportation safety board, led the F.A.A. to re-examine the sightseeing flights.

After today's crash, all Grand Canyon Airlines flights were canceled indefinitely, but other companies maintained normal operations.

James Mahoney, at a Forest Service fire lookout 10 miles from the crash site, said he did not witness the collision but saw smoke billowing into the sky seconds later.

He said the aircraft were flying below the rim.

''I know that because of the position of the smoke,'' he said. ''They are not supposed to be flying in there, and they know it.''

The sightseeing tours by air at the Grand Canyon have stirred growing controversy in this region, fueled by the increasing popularity of flying small craft below the canyon rim in order to gain the best possible view. Conservationists have complained that the noise and frequency of some flyovers constitutes an intolerable assault on the tranquility and ecology of the setting.

But the flights have their defenders, among them some park administrators, who say unofficially that flights provide the best means for the most people to enjoy the canyon, particularly the eldery and handicapped.

A Park Service spokesman said it was not known whether the two aircraft involved in the crash had been flying below the canyon's rim.

Gary Mucho, of the safety board, said, ''We have no idea'' whether the aircraft were flying below the rim or not.

In 1985, about 300,000 people flew over the canyon, which is 4 to 18 miles wide and 217 miles long. Environmentalists' Concerns

Robert Lippman, a lawyer for an environmentalist group, Friends of the River, said the tragedy ''underscores the dangers that we've learned about uncontrolled line-of-sight flying below the rim.''

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British tourists hospitalized after fatal Grand Canyon copter crash

The pilot and three passengers who survived a deadly helicopter crash in the Grand Canyon were hospitalized Sunday in Las Vegas after an hourslong rescue effort, officials said.

Six British tourists and the pilot were aboard a Eurocopter EC130 belonging to the Boulder City-based Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters tour company when it crashed about 5:20 p.m. Saturday near Quartermaster Canyon on the Hualapai Nation Indian Reservation, Hualapai Nation Police Chief Francis Bradley said. The crash site is about 60 miles west of Peach Springs, Arizona.

Police said the crash killed Becky Dobson, 27; Jason Hill, 32; and Stuart Hill, 30.

The British Consulate General of Los Angeles helped tribal police notify the victims’ families.

VIDEO FROM TEDDY FUJIMOTO

“We are providing support to the families of six British visitors involved in a helicopter accident at the Grand Canyon on 10 February, and we are in close contact with the US emergency services,” an official with the United Kingdom’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office said in a written statement.

First reponders treated four survivors in the canyon until about 2 a.m. Sunday, when emergency personnel were able to remove the victims from the crash site and fly them to University Medical Center on a Nellis Air Force Base helicopter.

As of Sunday afternoon, a hospital spokeswoman confirmed that the four victims were alive but in critical condition.

Police said the pilot, 42-year-old Scott Booth, survived the crash but severely injured a limb.

Ellie Milward, 29; Jonathan Udall, 32; and Jennifer Barham, 39, are the other survivors, police said.

“I’ve seen a lot of accidents, especially those involving car crashes and other types of traumatic injuries, and … the will to survive kicks in,” Bradley said during a press conference near the Grand Canyon West entrance Sunday afternoon. “And as you know, it’s a fight-or-flight syndrome that we have in every one of us, and I’m sure that had a lot to do with their survival.”

Winds may have been factor

Strong winds gusting up to 50 mph and rugged terrain hampered first responders’ efforts to reach the victims. Rescuers were flown into the canyon and had to hike to the crash site, Bradley said.

A Nellis Air Force Base crew and personnel from the Arizona Department of Public Safety assisted tribal police in the rescue.

The National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration will lead the investigation, FAA spokesman Allen Kenitzer said.

Investigators had not determined an official cause of the crash as of Sunday, Bradley said.

“Yesterday, we were hampered by severe weather conditions,” Bradley said, noting that flying in those conditions is not normal. He did not say how strong winds must be to be considered unsafe.

On Sunday, Papillon released a statement offering condolences and pledging to fully cooperate with the investigation.

“It is with extreme sadness we extend our heartfelt sympathy to the families involved in this accident,” Papillon Group CEO Brenda Halvorson said in the statement. “Our top priority is the care and needs of our passengers and our staff.”

Relatives of the victims seeking immediate assistance should call 866-512-9121, she said.

Las Vegas photographer Teddy Fujimoto told the Las Vegas Review-Journal he was shooting a wedding when the helicopter crashed. The aircraft was so engulfed in smoke and flames, Fujimoto said, that he could not immediately tell what it was.

He said he felt helpless as he heard the people gasping for air and saw two women running from the wreckage.

“You can hear the screams from the ladies,” he said. “One of them was calling out a name. It’s just horrible. You want to help, but you can’t.”

Fujimoto heard at least two explosions and saw people delivering water and first aid supplies before rescue crews arrived.

Investigation could take months

Longtime helicopter crash attorney Gary Robb told the Review-Journal it may take investigators at least nine months to pinpoint a probable cause for Saturday’s crash. Robb’s team has handled many major crashes in the country’s western region, including the August 2001 Papillon crash that left six dead and the December 2011 Sundance helicopter crash that killed four.

“It’s too early to speculate, but early indications suggest that perhaps heavy gusts could have been a factor that drove the aircraft to strike a wall of the canyon,” he said. “The other possibility is some sort of in-flight mechanical issue, including an engine problem or main roter blade fracture or defect. You also cannot rule out human error, whether it be some sort of pilot incapacitation or neglect.”

The coming investigation, Robb said, should include a thorough review of the wreckage, helicopter maintenance records and the pilot’s qualifications.

“In many of the Grand Canyon crash cases I’ve worked on, the single most predominant factor has been rushed maintenance,” he said. “We’ve seen it over and over again that these tour operators will rush their helicopters through maintenance to get them back into the air to keep up with tourist schedules. Other times, what will happen is these companies will use another helicopter as a subsitution, and the pilot is not always qualified for that type of helicopter. It’s just a recipe for disaster.”

Aviation probes

On Aug. 10, 2001, a Eurocopter AS350 operated by Papillon crashed and burned in the Grand Wash Cliffs area. The tour pilot lost control of the chopper, killing himself and five others on board. Robb took the tour company to court on behalf of Chana Daskal, the only survivor of the wreckage.

Since then, Robb said, Papillon has been at the center of about a dozen aviation probes by the National Transportation Safety Board.

It’s possible that the company was not at fault in Saturday’s crash, Robb said, noting a manufacturing defect could have contributed to “some sort of mechanical problem.”

The Kansas City-based attorney also commended strides made by the tour company since the 2001 crash.

“They have made a concerted effort to improve and overhaul their safety regimen since we got involved with them in 2001, but obviously something went terribly awry to cause last night’s horrific crash,” he said.

Papillon has 600 employees and a fleet of 48 helicopters. The business first operated from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim before expanding operations to McCarran International Airport in 1997. It started operating out of Boulder City Airport in 2004.

Contact Rio Lacanlale at [email protected] or 702-383-0381. Follow @riolacanlale on Twitter. Contact Blake Apgar at [email protected] or 702-387-5298. Follow @blakeapgar on Twitter.

Major helicopter crashes

Sept. 4, 1998: Two Pave Hawks, rescue helicopters, collided during a nighttime exercise 70 miles north of Nellis Airforce Base, killing 12 airmen, six in each helicopter.

Dec. 7, 2011: A Sundance helicopter crashed during a sightseeing tour at the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Five people died in the crash.

June 23, 2016: A Robinson R66 helicopter crashed north of Alamo Lake in Arizona resulting in the deaths of two men. The men were found dead at the scene.

Although the deal has been described as an Israeli initiative, some members of Netanyahu’s coalition government are strongly opposed to it.

A woman found dead last year in a mountain community was the victim of the first documented fatal black bear attack on a human in California, authorities said.

Solid-fuel missiles can be set up and fired faster than those containing liquid fuel. That’s a key concern for the Houthis as their missile launch sites have been repeatedly targeted by U.S. and allied forces.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to address a joint meeting of Congress on July 24, according to a person familiar with the matter.

Three Jewish UCLA students filed a federal lawsuit against the UC regents and several university officials, alleging that anti-Israeli protesters blocked them from crucial parts of the campus.

The families of the Americans taken hostage fear that with all the tumult of the Israel-Hamas war, Americans often forget about their fellow citizens who remain missing.

A large, brightly colored invasive species called the Joro spider is on the move in the United States.

Dick Ramsey was on board the USS Nevada off the coast of France on D-Day, June 6, 1944 — 2½ years after the battleship nearly sank at Pearl Harbor.

The Phoenix Fire Department is immersing heatstroke victims in ice on the way to area hospitals. The medical technique is known as cold-water immersion.

Reenactments and a motorbike parade featuring some 150 vintage US Army motorbikes took place near Normandy this week to commemorate the D-Day landings.

Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours

• VIP Experience
• Canyon Floor Landing
• Vegas Night Flights

• Half-Day Excursions
• Multiple Parks
• Combo Packages

• ATV/UTV Off Road
• Exclusive Locations
• Full Day Trip

• Most Popular
• Rim-to-Rim Flights
• Grand Canyon Air Tour

• Historic Route
• Budget Friendly

• Expert Tour Guide
• Sunset Tours
• Multiple Viewpoints

• Antelope Canyon
• Rafting Adventure
• Horseshoe Bend

Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters is the largest and most experienced Grand Canyon helicopter tours company in the world. We’ve been flying guests on daily tours since 1965, and with three exclusive landing sites on the floor of the canyon, the immersive experience we offer is unrivaled by any other tour company.

About Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours

Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopter tours are certified to fly the entire Grand Canyon with exclusive landing sites on Hualapai and Navajo Nation lands. Our fleet of Papillon helicopters are specifically designed for sightseeing and comfort, with oversized windows and onboard upgrades that have been developed by our own team. We service Grand Canyon helicopter tours from the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas . Tours afford maximum flight time, enabling guests to fully discover the great wilderness and scenic attractions the southwest has to offer.

Truly a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ experience, this helicopter flight will take you over the deepest and widest part of the Canyon, following the mighty Colorado River from South Rim to the North rim. You will witness views of the Canyon you will never see from the ground.

Recommend for groups of 4+. Fly our world famous North Canyon tour on an aircraft dedicated exclusively for yourself and your family/friends.

Explore the North & East Rim - the deepest section of the canyon, boasting 1.7 million year old stone - all from the EcoStar, a helicopter offering 180-degree viewing and stadium-style seat design.

There is only one way to view the Las Vegas Strip at its most impressive perspective– from the Sky! Soar over the stunning skyline and sparkling lights of the world-renowned Strip and Downtown Las Vegas.

The Golden Eagle Air Tour is perfect for Las Vegas guests who are pressed for time and desire to see as much of the Grand Canyon as possible. This tour includes aerial views of the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead as well as the spectacular Grand Canyon.

Fly into the depths of the Grand Canyon by helicopter and descend below the Rim to land on the Canyon floor. Enjoy champagne toast and refreshments near the Colorado River. You’ll have plenty of time to explore and take photos. This tour also includes stunning views of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and the Grand Wash Cliffs.

Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopter Awards

Papillon Helicopter's commitment is to provide excellent customer service, unique products, and above all, a continued dedication to ensuring aircraft safety and maintenance training.

Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours FAQs

Yes! The Grand Canyon is open and our Las Vegas Tours to Grand Canyon as well as our Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours from the national park are flying daily! Check out our guide on how to visit Las Vegas during COVID and have fun while staying safe!

• Complimentary Hotel Transfers (from Las Vegas only)
• Pre-recorded narration available in multiple languages, plus choreographed music 
• Most tours operational every day except Christmas
• Most of our tours operate 364 days a year. Our tour offerings are limited to bus and airplane tours on Christmas day. 
• All of our tours vary in price depending on departure location and tour type. To find a tour that’s right for you, visit our tour pages by departure location: Las Vegas , Grand Canyon National Park , Grand Canyon West , Phoenix/Scottsdale or Page, AZ . 
• Most Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopter tours and flights have many departures ranging from early morning to late afternoon and evening.  
• Well, that all depends on what you’re looking for! We offer a wide range of tour types for all Grand Canyon experiences. Looking for an all-inclusive Grand Canyon tour that covers Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and a landing at the bottom of the Grand Canyon? We’ve got that. Interested in leveling up to a full adventure tour with a helicopter ride, ATV and jeep excursion? Yeah, we’ve got that, too. Check out all of our tours departing from Las Vegas and Grand Canyon .   
• Yes! If you are touring with us from Las Vegas or Grand Canyon West we offer a number of helicopter tours that will deliver you 4000 ft. to the floor of the Grand Canyon. View our tours available . 
• We offer Grand Canyon tour narration in several languages on our air transportation tours. Most helicopter narrations are available in: Spanish, German, Portuguese, Italian, French, Dutch, Chinese, Cantonese, Mandarin, Korean, Japanese, and English. Most airplane narrations are available in: Spanish, German, Russian, Swedish, Portuguese, Italian, Greek, French, Dutch, Thai, Indonesian, Cantonese, Mandarin, Korean, Japanese, and English.  

Still didn't answer your question? See more FAQs.

The Grand Canyon is split into four major regions, each offering unique sightseeing and outdoor adventures. Despite its size you can, with planning, experience the best that Grand Canyon has to offer in just one day!

There are a variety of ways to enjoy Grand Canyon like a helicopter tour, ground adventure, rafting experience, and many more. Explore our "Top 10" to take your Grand Canyon vacation to a new level!

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900 Deaths in the Grand Canyon Mapped

Inspired by the book, over the edge: death in grand canyon, kenneth field created a map of more than 900 unfortunate events..

Inspired by the book, Over the Edge: Death in Grand Canyon , Kenneth Field created a map that helps tell the stories of more than 900 casualties in Grand Canyon through 2018. They are cartographers with more of a passion about maps than of death statistics so the result is artistic and experience-based rather than analytical.

The map is unique in that it uses chromastereoscopic color which means it can be viewed in holographic 3D if you’re wearing Chromadepth glasses. Red appears closest and blue appears the farthest away. You can view the map just fine without the glasses and you can even download a poster version to print.

Zoom into the online map’s hexagonal symbols and you can see more information about the individual event such as whether it was a drowning, a fall , or even murder. There are a surprisingly large number of air crash victims .

The printed map shows color-coded symbols indicating the reason for demise (pictured at top). It also features snippets of stories such as, “While sitting at a picnic table, gusty winds tore off the top from a nearby tree, which fell on Hock, killing him.”

View the map at carto.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=9359a0790ffe4bc09edd6b9c17a43b90.

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North America

Central america & caribbean, south america, north africa & middle east.

Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife.

G Adventures Land

G adventures sailing & cruises, g adventures private travel.

Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

The Geluxe Collection

Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here. With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations and elevated dining, this is adventure at its finest.

National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

National Geographic Family Journeys

Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

Trees for Days

Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

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USA Road Trip — Grand Canyon, Vegas & Death Valley

10 days, los angeles to los angeles.

• Full itinerary
• Tour details

Picture this; you’re sitting along the rim of Horseshoe Bend staring at the mighty Colorado River flowing below. The wind is whipping through your hair, your newest friends are laughing nearby, and you don’t have a worry in the world besides getting that perfect group photo. That's exactly what's in store on this adventure through five of the most popular national parks in the American Southwest. An adventure jam packed with hiking, sightseeing, campfire talks, and epic views awaits you. Climb through the rock formations of Joshua Tree, eat some pizza along the rim of the Grand Canyon, wander amidst the famous hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, Go Glamping in Zion, and visit a land of extremes in Death Valley. It looks like you’ve found the perfect way to make some new friends and enjoy the great outdoors all in one go, and that’s a win in our book!

Los Angeles to Los Angeles

Special offers, is this tour for me, travel style: 18-to-thirtysomethings.

Fast, fresh, and fun adventures that never slow down, made for young, budget-minded travellers.

Service Level: Camping

Camping most nights with some hotel/hostel stays to start and throughout; affordable public and private transport.

Physical Rating: 3 - Average

Some tours may include light hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 13

Age requirement: 18-39

Check your visa requirements.

Before booking, use our handy entry requirements tool so you know which documents you need to enter and travel through the countries on your trip.

See how your trip uplifts communities

In a number of impactful ways, your adventure directly benefits the local people and places we visit.

Help us spread love around the world with Trees for Days. Together with Planeterra, we'll plant one tree in your name for every travel day.

Trees planted for this trip: 10

Ripple Score

Create ripples that change lives. The higher the Ripple Score percentage, the more money stays in the local communities you visit.

Ripple Score for this trip: 85

Places visited

• United States

Day 1 Los Angeles/Joshua Tree National Park

Depart Los Angeles for the desert today as you journey eastward to explore Joshua Tree National Park. Climb through the park’s famous rock formations and make sure to get some photos of the park's namesake tree as the sun lights up this desolate landscape. In the evening relax at our accommodation by taking a dip in the pool and then opt to grab some dinner with your fellow travellers.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Meals included:, day 2 joshua tree national park/grand canyon national park.

Drive down the famed Route 66 today as we cruise further east to the Grand Canyon. Get ready to see breathtaking views with arguably the best sunset you have ever seen overlooking the Grand Canyon. Kick off those shoes, sit back, relax, and enjoy one of nature’s finest performances. Enjoy a cheesy slice of pizza or two overlooking the Grand Canyon during sunset.

Day 3 Grand Canyon

Get up close and personal with the Grand Canyon as you spend the day hiking from the South Rim. There are a variety of hikes to choose from that will take you deeper into the canyon where you can really appreciate the size and depth of this national park. Choose whichever trail you wish or do short bursts of multiple hikes, just make sure you bring plenty of water and take your time.

Day 4 Grand Canyon/Page/Bryce Canyon

Journey onwards from the Grand Canyon to Page, Arizona, the site of Lake Powell. There will be free time here. Opt to join a local Navajo guide and explore Antelope Canyon; a stunning natural sandstone slot canyon located on tribal lands.

Then, lace up those hiking boots for a visit to Horseshoe Bend, a geological masterpiece that has been sculpted by the Colorado River. Walk to the overlook where you can hike along the rim and stare down into the flowing river far below. Snap some photos with your friends and just enjoy the moment. Finish the day with a picturesque drive to your camp in Bryce Canyon.

Day 5 Bryce Canyon

After a camp breakfast head out for a short drive into Bryce Canyon National Park. Once in the park, take advantage of your free time to hike through the wild and weird rock formations known as hoodoos. Opt to visit Inspiration Point, hit the rim trail, horseback ride, or hike the Queen’s Garden and Navajo loop trails to see sites like Thor’s Hammer and Wall Street. At night stargaze in a park known for its night skies.

Day 6 Bryce Canyon/Zion National Park

We pack up early this morning and move on towards Zion and our Glamping tents! Located in a private canyon away from civilization, but close to Zion National Park this location is made for outdoor enthusiasts who also like to be pampered a little. On route to camp we will make a stop at the lesser-known Coral Pink Sand Dunes and enjoy a scenic overlook of Utah’s surrounding landscape on the Colorado Plateau. It’s a unique geological feature that you shouldn’t miss.

You’ll have free time in the afternoon and evening to become acquainted with your surroundings. Maybe hike the Water Canyon trail or enjoy camp and put on a cornhole tournament as a group. The only rule is to have a good time!

Day 7 Zion National Park

It’s all about Zion today as you get a chance to wander this beautiful national park in Southwest Utah. Take the shuttle into the park and spend the day exploring and hiking with your fellow travelers.

Admire the monumental sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that tower into the sky and remember you can choose to turn around on these hikes at any point. In the evening enjoy leisure time back at our Glamping tents. Once it gets dark get ready to sit around the campfire and roast some marshmallows as a group.

Day 8 Zion National Park/Las Vegas

Today, take the short drive from Zion to Las Vegas. Upon arrival, enjoy free time in Las Vegas. Explore the strip, try your luck at a casino, or take in a glitzy show.

Day 9 Death Valley National Park

Drive from Las Vegas to Death Valley and visit the country's hottest, driest, and lowest national park. Death Valley is a land of extremes and you’ll get a sense of the striking contrast of this park’s landscapes with visits to Badwater Basin and Zabriskie Point. Then, transfer to the hotel in Ridgecrest and relax this evening.

Day 10 Ridgecrest/Los Angeles

Wake in Ridgecrest and drive southwest to Los Angeles. Tour ends on arrival to L.A.

What's Included

• Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
• Visit to Joshua Tree National Park
• Drive along Route 66
• Grand Canyon sunset pizza dinner
• Hike in Grand Canyon National Park
• Visit to Horseshoe Bend
• Bryce Canyon National Park visit
• Zion Glamping
• Zion National Park visit
• Free time in Las Vegas
• Death Valley National Park visit
• Entrance fees to all national parks and monuments with hiking and walking excursions
• Self-inflating mattresses and dome tents
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodations

Hotel (3 nts), glamping (2 nts), participation camping (4 nts).

6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners Allow USD190-250 for meals not included.

Transportation

Air-conditioned private vehicle, hiking, walking.

Staff & experts

1 CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.

Available extras  (Add these to your tour when you book)

Grand canyon helicopter tour - from $350.00.

The Grand Canyon helicopter ride is a must! Enjoy a bird's-eye view for 45 to 50 minutes as you fly over the canyon, taking in the stark contrast of the blue-green Colorado River against the thousand shades of red rock found in the canyon. From above, you can fully appreciate the greatness of the gorge and see why it is one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

My Own Room - From $1079.00

If you're travelling solo and would prefer to have your own private room throughout your trip, select this option during the online booking process.

Make it a private tour

Book this tour as a private departure, with your own CEO and all the benefits of a G Adventures group tour.

Summer Safety: Avoid Hiking During Excessive Heat Warnings

The National Park Service recommends not hiking below the rim during the excessive heat warning.

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for parts of Grand Canyon National Park . The warning is in effect from 8 a.m. Thursday, June 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 7 for areas below 4,000 feet in the canyon including Phantom Ranch and Havasupai Gardens .  Forecast temperatures in the shade range between 105 F/41 C and 111 F/44 C. Hotter than normal temperatures will also hit the rims, with highs of 92 F/33 C on the South Rim and 85 F/30 C on the North Rim.

The National Park Service recommends not hiking below the rim during the excessive heat warning. Hiking in extreme heat can lead to serious health risks including heat exhaustion, heat stroke, hyponatremia, and death. Be aware that efforts to assist hikers may be delayed during the summer months due to limited staff, the number of rescue calls, employee safety requirements, and limited helicopter flying capability during periods of extreme heat or inclement weather.

All visitors to Grand Canyon should ensure they are drinking plenty of fluids, resting in shade during the heat of the day, and dressing appropriately for the weather, which includes loose-fitting cotton clothing. Hikers should closely watch for signs of distress in traveling companions, in particular, fainting, confusion, or altered mentation as these may be early warning signs of heat stroke.

Anyone who still plans to hike into the canyon should take extra precautions to hike smart. Hikers should plan to hike before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. and rest in the shade to avoid the worst heat of the day. The National Park Service advises that anyone hiking in heat should balance food and water intake, drink when thirsty, and get wet to stay cool.

Helpful Visitor Resources

Additional information about hiking smart in the heat is available at https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/hike-smart.htm.

For up-to-date weather forecasts please check the National Weather Service website:  http://www.weather.gov/fgz/

Contact: Joelle Baird , 928-606-3154

Explored Planet

The World's Best Places For A Helicopter Tour

Posted: November 15, 2023 | Last updated: November 16, 2023

Earth is filled with the most beautiful natural landscapes of dazzling skylines, crystal-clear water, and majestic mountaintops. These wonders can be reached several ways, but there's something special about traveling by helicopter. Exploring the world in a helicopter gives people an amazing aerial view that can't be seen by any other mode of transportation.

Getting the chance to do this could have you riding over waterfalls, dipping past the Grand Canyon, or seeing a private view of the iconic Hollywood sign. If you're ready for the adventure of a lifetime, consider taking at least one of these scenic helicopter tours.

Fly High Above The Grand Canyon

If you're traveling around the Grand Canyon by foot or car there's only so much you can see in one visit, not to mention having to battle the crowds to get a good spot. The carved rocks were formed billions of years ago and stretch almost 300 miles along the Colorado River and the Arizona desert.

This is why it makes for a perfect helicopter tour. Not only do riders get to see the ins and outs of the canyon, but they will also get to fly over the Vegas Strip, Hoover Dam, and the Mojave Desert. Some tours have permission to land inside the canyon where guests can take a riverboat ride or trip along the Skywalk.

Escape The Tourists While Riding Around Rio de Janeiro

South America's most-visited city is Rio de Janeiro, Brazil with almost two and a half million new visitors every year. The sights most people want to see are usually flooded with tourists, but taking a helicopter tour can give you a private view of this lively city.

Here, tourists can get an aerial view of Ipanema Beach, Copacabana, the Maracanã Soccer Stadium, Sugarloaf, and the statue of Christ the Redeemer. Christ the Redeemer is one of the world's most photographed manmade sites and seeing it by helicopter can give riders unique vantage points.

Climb Mt. Everest Without Breaking A Sweat

Climbing Mt. Everest in Nepal is quite a bucket list adventure, but there are other ways of reaching the top. This 29,029-foot mountain is the tallest mountain in the world, so the trek is nothing short of a challenge. The helicopter tour of the mountain will allow people to reach the top without having to step foot on the ground.

The tour starts at Kathmandu and goes upward toward Sherpa village, Lukla, Tengboche, Dingboche, Gorakshep, and the Khumbu glacier. Riders will fly though the majestic Himalayan mountain range and land at the Everest Base Camp, which is located at 17,598-feet above sea level.

This Kauai Helicopter Tour Is Like A Scene Out Of A Movie

There's a reason why films such as Jurassic Park , Indiana Jones , and Pirates of the Caribbean shot many of their scenes against the gorgeous backdrop of Kauai. This small Hawaiian island runs along the shores of the Na Pali coastline and features secluded tidal pools, grottos, and waterfalls.

There are several helicopter tours in Hawaii that will take guests through Kauai's scenic landscape, but they don't stop there. Most tours go to other islands where guests can see other landmarks including the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the Kohala Coast.

See The Stars While Roaming Over The Hollywood Hills

Those who want to fly over Hollywood, California are in luck because there are numerous tours that will do just that. These services offer some luxury amenities including a champagne toast with cheesecake and berries, a private sunset ride, and a recording of a 360-degree virtual reality video.

Riders will get to see several famous Los Angeles landmarks including the Hollywood sign, Universal Studios, Griffith Observatory, Dodger Stadium, The Getty Center, the Hollywood Bowl, and more. Flight times usually range from about 10 to 90 minutes and the maximum weight per person is 285 pounds.

Dive Above The Ocean Floor At The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, Australia is the world's biggest coral reef, which stretches over 1,429 miles. Many visitors go there to dive below the water, but a helicopter tour will give them an unforgettable aerial view.

Many have reported sightings of sea creatures such as sharks, turtles, and stingrays from their helicopter tours. Also, those who want to see both above and below the reef should find the tours that offer snorkel and dive stops on anchored pontoons. If you choose to take a longer trip, they stop in other areas of Australia including the Daintree Rainforest, Cairns Highlands, and the Mossman and Baron gorges.

Get Ready To View Island Paradise In Turks And Caicos

Anyone looking for a tropical getaway will get all they want and more at the British Overseas Territory of Turks and Caicos. There are swaying palm trees, bright white sand, and clear blue water throughout the 40 islands. Most tours visit many Turks and Caicos attractions including Chalk Sound National Park, Grace Bay Beach, Iguana Island, and Pine Cay.

When guests fly over the water they are sometimes able to spot sharks, stingrays, dolphins, and whales. Something helpful about the helicopter tours in Turks and Caicos is how they are very flexible and cater to visitors' time and budgets.

Catch A Glimpse Of The World's Most Majestic Waterfalls In Iguazú Falls

One of the best ways to view the famous Iguazú Falls is by helicopter. It's located on the border between Brazil and Argentina and is thought to be one of the great wonders of nature. This area has the largest and longest waterfalls in the world with over 275 drops with the deepest being 269-feet long.

When visitors fly over the falls they can get a bird's eye view of the iconic Devils' Throat canyon and the surrounding jungle. Some helicopter tours will stop near walkways where people can step right in front of the waterfalls.

See New York City From All Angles

Getting to see all of New York City by foot can take several days. It's the most populated city in the United States and not everyone has the energy to get through the crowds. Helicopter tours of the city allow tourists to see how large New York actually is, while getting a grand view of its iconic layout.

Most tours start at the southern tip of Manhattan and travel through several famous attractions including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, One World Trade Center, Wall Street, Yankee Stadium, Central Park, the Empire State Building, and much more.

Take To The Skies At The Amalfi Coast

Italy's Amalfi Coast is nothing short of an extraordinary view. Their seaside cliffs are a top vacation spot for about five million people every year. While some may want to spend their Italian vacation lounging at the beach or exploring the nearby fishing villages, the town actually makes for a memorable helicopter trip.

Seeing Italy by helicopter allows visitors to experience the true beauty of the area. People have the option of viewing additional cities after the Amalfi Coast such as Capri, Naples, Ischia, and Sorrento. There's also an option to fly into Pompeii and explore it from the ground.

Zip Through The Sights Of Cape Town, South Africa

One of the most popular helicopter tour options in Cape Town, South Africa is the "Two Oceans" flight where riders can fly over both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. You'll also get to fly behind Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles mountain range, which are some of the greatest natural wonders in Africa.

If you get a chance to ride above Muizenberg Beach, you might be able to see some great white sharks. Once you finish with the helicopter tours there are plenty of other ways to see Cape Town including safaris, gourmet picnics, and shark cage diving.

Soar Above The Skyscrapers In Hong Kong

Something that visitors can't miss in Hong Kong, China is their skyscraper skyline. Hong Kong has been one of the most diverse cities in Asia due to early British colonization causing it to become a unique metropolitan hub. Many flights also offer stunning views of the Victoria Harbour, as well as the surrounding beaches and bays of South Hong Kong Island.

Those who want to add a little luxury to their helicopter tours can opt for packages such as "Fly and Dine" or "Fly and Tea" where people can eat and drink delicious Chinese delicacies onboard.

Plunge Into The Magical Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, otherwise known as "The Smoke That Thunders," is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. It can be found on the Zambezi River on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and has a width of over 5,604 feet.

While seeing Victoria Falls from the ground is still a great experience, seeing it from a helicopter makes it even more special. From the sky people can view the rainbow shining through the waterfall's mist. Some tours get to ride above the Batoka Gorges and Zambezi National Park where people can spot giraffes, crocodiles, hippos, and elephants.

Witness The Great Heights Of Juneau, Alaska

Anyone who loves the great outdoors will feel very satisfied after visiting Juneau, Alaska. There are over three million lakes, 16,000 miles of glaciers, and 34,000 miles of shoreline. This southeastern Alaskan city is the second largest city in the United States by area and is the ideal place to take a helicopter tour.

Riders can soar over the Mendenhall Glacier and remote ice fields. Some are even lucky enough to spot the dogsled camps for those practicing for the Iditarad Trail Sled Dog Race. One specific tour called the "Icefield Excursion" takes riders on a trip around Alaska's wilderness and ends on a glacier for people do a walkabout.

Look Out For Wild Animals At Serengeti National Park

Safaris may be the perfect way to get an up-close view of wild animals, but a helicopter ride can allow you to take them all in at once. One of the places visitors are bound to see thousands of wild animals is the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.

Anyone planning a trip to do this should try and go between July and October to catch the Great Migration. It's the largest animal migration in the world where millions of zebras, wildebeest, and other antelope species make the journey from Tanzania to Kenya. They have to face many threats such as crocodile-infested waters and terrestrial predators (lions, leopards, etc.).

Fly Around Glaciers And Mountains In New Zealand

Both the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers in South Island, New Zealand are some of the most visited glaciers in the world due to their easy accessibility. Riding high above the glaciers is a thrill unlike no other because people will get to gander at some of nature's most picturesque landscapes.

Not only do helicopter tours show aerial views of the snow-covered mountains, but they also fly over the nearby rainforests. Some of the tours will allow riders to land right on the glaciers themselves, so there's plenty of time to explore.

Find Some Of The Clearest Blue Water In Fiji

Anyone with the chance to vacation in Fiji should consider themselves lucky. There are several luxury resorts that offer private villas, plunge pools, in-room spa treatments, five-star dining, and other grandiose amenities. Many of these resorts can only be reached by helicopter.

While flying through the air in Fiji, chances are you'll pass the deep gorges, rolling green hills, and crystal blue waters. The pilots are also said to be extremely friendly and will often give commentary about the island and what people should do during their stay.

View Niagara Falls Without Getting Wet

When people visit Niagara Falls they may choose to ride the Maid of the Mist boat tour, but that usually leads to them getting soaked. For a drier view you may want to try out a helicopter tour. It takes off along Victoria Avenue and glides down the Niagara River.

Riders often spot Whirlpool Rapids, Rainbow Bridge, and Queen Victoria Park along the way. If you're wondering why Niagara Falls has a greenish tint, it's because of the dissolved salts and rock flour that pours over the edge at a rate of about four million cubic feet per minute.

Experience Some Historical Architecture In Chicago

Some may think of Chicago as a city full of deep-dish pizza and home of a couple of the country's most popular baseball teams, but it's actually full of rich history. They have some of the most diverse architecture in the entire country, which is demonstrated through their unique skyline and streetscape.

The city has plenty of helicopter tours for guests who want to get a bird's eye view of attractions such as the Willis Tower, Lake Michigan, Millennium Park, Grant Park, Soldier Field, the John Hancock Building, Wrigley Field, and more.

Go Deep Into The Jungle At Virunga National Park

There's plenty to see at Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. They have multiday helicopter tours available where travelers can view the jungle high above the treetops. It's very common to see the mountain gorillas and elephants roaming about, which will seem like a scene out of Tarzan .

Some tours also stop at Mount Nyiragongo, which features an active volcano. Virunga National Park is Africa's oldest wildlife park and has been a pristine habitat rich in biodiversity for several decades. Both the lowland and forest are overflowing with diverse species of trees, ferns, butterflies, birds, and more.

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