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10 Best Maui Helicopter Tours

One of the best ways to experience Maui’s beauty is from above, where you can take in panoramic views that are simply not accessible by land. Helicopter tours offer a unique and exhilarating perspective of Maui’s natural wonders, from the majestic Haleakalā Crater to the cascading waterfalls of the Hana Rainforest. In this article, we’ve curated a list of the 10 best Maui helicopter tours. Join us as we explore the top helicopter tours that will elevate your Maui experience to new heights.

Maui Haleakala Helicopter Tour

Embark on a luxurious Road to Hana adventure in a limo-van, exploring the scenic 64-mile drive with stops at Keanae, Waikani Falls, and Waianapanapa State Park. Enjoy an al fresco picnic lunch at Hana’s black sand beaches, with an optional swim at Puaa Kaa Falls. Afterward, soar above Haleakala Crater on a helicopter tour, revealing the hidden beauty of the National Park.

Air Maui Helicopter Tour 

Experience the beauty of Maui from above aboard the American Eurocopter ASTAR, flying over Haleakala Crater and offering stunning views of the Valley Isle and the Pacific Ocean. Soar over lush valleys, tropical rainforests, and cascading waterfalls, exploring areas accessible only by air. Air Maui’s expert staff and pilots ensure a comfortable and safe journey. Begin with the majestic Haleakala Crater, then visit an ancient sacred site, and finally, marvel at the Hana Rainforest’s waterfalls, green valleys, white sand beaches, and crystal blue waters.

West Maui & Molokai Helicopter Tour

Board the American Eurocopter ASTAR and soar over Maui’s dramatically diverse landscape, including dormant volcanoes, rugged lava fields, tropical rainforests, and deep valleys with cascading waterfalls. Air Maui’s friendly and expert staff prioritize your comfort and safety, ensuring an unforgettable experience. With over 90% of the island accessible only by air, this tour offers a unique chance to uncover the hidden gems and mysteries of Maui.

Maui Helicopter Tours - Blue Hawaiian

Create unforgettable memories on a premier Maui helicopter flight from Kahului. Explore top attractions like the lush Hana coastline rainforest, Haleakala’s 10,000 ft. dormant volcano, and the famous western valleys of West Maui. Fly to Molokai to witness its impressive sea cliffs and the historic village of Kalaupapa. Opt for the circle island tour to see all of Maui in one hour, or choose the helicopter landing package for an exclusive stop at the remote Ulupalakua Ranch.

Maui Helicopter Tour - Haleakala Volcano & Hana Rainforest Waterfall Flight

Soar above lush rainforests, luxurious resorts, and breathtaking waterfalls like the Wall of Tears and Honokohau Falls. These tours take you from popular tourist spots to remote locations that are otherwise inaccessible. Ascend to the summit of Haleakala, where the clear skies reveal a stark, mystical landscape below. For the ultimate Hawaiian experience, choose between the FX-STAR and WhisperSTAR helicopters, both offering comfortable seating for six passengers.

Maui Circle Island Helicopter Tour

Fly in Sunshine’s state-of-the-art FX-STAR or WhisperSTAR aircraft, and marvel at lush, vibrant landscapes that are often inaccessible by foot. Enjoy a safe, smooth, and comfortable flight with knowledgeable pilots who will showcase Maui’s stunning panoramas, filled with waterfalls, rainbows, and diverse wildlife illuminated by the warm sun.

West Maui Helicopter Tour & Molokai Flight

Step aboard a comfortable FX-STAR or WhisperSTAR helicopter and soar above the stunning West Maui Mountains, preparing for the breathtaking sights across the Pailolo Channel. During winter, watch for whales splashing in the waters between Maui and Molokai. The highlight of the journey is the awe-inspiring green sea cliffs of Molokai, resembling ancient ruins, with hidden valleys, cascading waterfalls, and the secluded Kalaupapa village beyond.

Maui Helicopter Three Island Tour - Maverick Helicopters

Start with panoramic views of West Maui and Kapalua’s coastline, then cross the Pailolo Channel for a close encounter with Elephant Rock. On Molokai, marvel at the world’s largest sea cliffs and ancient Hawaiian fish ponds. Lanai offers scenic treasures like Shipwreck Beach, home to a famous WWII shipwreck. Returning to Maui, fly through the West Maui Mountains with its cascading waterfalls and the legendary Iao Valley.

Air Maui Circle Island Helicopter Tour

Board the American Eurocopter ASTAR and explore Maui’s diverse landscape from above, featuring dormant volcanoes, rugged lava fields, tropical rainforests, and deep valleys with cascading waterfalls. With over 90% of the island accessible only by air, this flight offers a unique chance to uncover Maui’s hidden gems. Soar above Haleakala Crater, the lush Hana Rainforest, and the ancient West Maui Mountains, taking in steep ridges, verdant valleys, and beautiful white-sand beaches.

Private Helicopter Flight for Marriage Proposals - Air Maui

Step aboard a private helicopter for an unforgettable experience in the West Maui Mountains, perfect for up to six people. This romantic journey includes a personalized beach sign visible from the helicopter, two leis, a commemorative photo, and a high-definition video of your flight. Make a grand romantic gesture as you soar over Maui’s stunning landscapes, creating cherished memories. Conclude your tour with a flyby over a beach sign asking the ultimate question: “Will you marry me?”

Ready to take your Maui adventure to new heights? Each of the 10 best Maui helicopter tours we’ve highlighted offers something special, ensuring that there’s a perfect option for every traveler. Reserve your spot now and get ready for an aerial adventure you’ll never forget!

A writer whose words flow where the mountains meet the sea.

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Taking a helicopter tour in Maui is an experience like no other. Our favorite is Air Maui’s West Maui and Molokai tour , but you can’t go wrong with any of these tours. Flying above turquoise waters, lush rainforests, and majestic volcanoes is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

We’ve compiled a list of the best Maui helicopter tours to help you decide which is for you. Each tour falls into the following categories depending on what you’re looking for:

• West Maui and Molokai Helicopter Tours – See Maui and the island of Molokai
• Volcano and Hana Helicopter Tours – Lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes
• Complete Island Helicopter Tours – Circle the island and see it all
• Doors Off Helicopter Tours – A thrilling ride with the doors off

Whether you prefer the thrill of a doors-off experience or a serene journey above the rainforests, these tours are guaranteed to create memories that will last a lifetime. So, buckle up, get your camera ready, and embark on an adventure that will take your breath away.

Our Picks: Best Helicopter Tours in Maui

Don’t have time to read the entire post? Here are our picks for the best helicopter tours.

• West Maui and Molokai: Air Maui’s Maui and Molokai Tour
• Complete Island: Air Maui’s Complete Island Tour

West Maui and Molokai Helicopter Tours

Maui volcano and hana helicopter tours, complete island maui helicopter tours, doors off maui helicopter tours, how far in advance should i book a maui helicopter tour, how long are maui helicopter tours, can i bring a camera on the helicopter, are there any age or weight restrictions, how many people can fit in a helicopter tour, will i get motion sickness.

These Maui helicopter tours allow you to explore not one but two islands . In addition to West Maui, you’ll be flown across the Pailolo Channel to the island of Molokai. There you’ll have a birds-eye view of Molokai’s lush terrain and 3000-foot sea cliffs, some of the world’s tallest.

On Maui, you’ll be treated to views of the West Maui Mountains that are only accessible by air. That includes Iao Valley State Park, a rainforest teeming with waterfalls and considered one of the wettest places on the planet because of how much it rains there.

If you’re looking for iconic views that you’ve probably seen in pictures, these are the Maui helicopter tours to consider. You won’t be disappointed!

Air Maui’s 45-Minute Maui and Molokai Tour

Experience the beauty of West Maui and Molokai on this helicopter tour operated by Air Maui. Soar above inaccessible valleys, hidden waterfalls, and majestic ridgelines in the heart of the West Maui mountains. Cross over to Molokai and witness 3,000-foot vertical sea cliffs cascading down to the shoreline below. Learn about these islands’ fascinating history, geology, and wildlife with expert narration.

Air Maui’s 60-Minute Maui and Molokai Tour

Take a longer tour with Air Maui on this 60-minute West Maui and Molokai helicopter tour. This tour is similar to their 45-minute tour, with a longer flight time soaring above the West Maui Mountains and Molokai. This tour offers a privileged perspective of the island’s hidden gems, from mist-covered ridgelines and cascading waterfalls to the world’s tallest sea cliffs and pristine coastlines.

Maverick Helicopters’ Two Island Tour

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Maverick Helicopters’ West Maui and Molokai tour. Soar above two picturesque Hawaiian islands and witness the breathtaking beauty from above. Marvel at the majestic Honokohau Falls, explore the lush rainforests of Iao Valley State Park and take in the stunning vistas of waterfalls, coasts, and iconic landmarks during this 55-minute helicopter flight.

These Maui helicopter tours focus on two areas on the island’s east side that typically take hours to see by car. If you’re looking to skip the long drive and try something different, these tours allow you to see the Haleakala Volcano and Road to Hana from a different perspective.

Haleakala, also known as the East Maui Volcano, is the third-largest in Hawaii and rises a staggering 10,023 feet above sea level. It has a stunning landscape marked by cinder cones that looks like something found on another planet.

The Road to Hana, the other sight you can see on these tours, is a 64-mile-long road that takes you through East Maui’s lush rainforests full of waterfalls and hidden pools. Both of these locations offer plenty to see that’s only accessible (or easier to access) by air.

Air Maui’s Hana and Haleakala Volcano Tour

Explore the raw beauty of East Maui’s Haleakala Crater and the lush Hana Rainforest with this helicopter tour from Air Maui. From the comfort of a forward-facing, air-conditioned helicopter, you’ll experience breathtaking 180-degree views of untouched valleys, cascading waterfalls, and the awe-inspiring dormant volcano, guided by an expert narrator.

Maverick’s Hana and Waterfall Tour w/Landing

This tour from Maverick Helicopters only focuses on the Road to Hana in East Maui. However, it’s longer than many helicopter tours and includes a landing! Once on the ground, you’ll have time to explore the lush rainforest floor of a former taro plantation. In the air, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of cliffs, waterfalls, and iconic surf spots like Jaws.

Blue Hawaiian’s Hana Tour w/Flight Back

Blue Hawaiian’s tour is actually a combo tour that includes a Road to Hana drive and a helicopter flight. You’ll start off on a 6-hour adventure in a limo van that includes tranquil stops at the charming Ke’anae hamlet, Wai’anapanapa State Park, and a waterfall where you can swim. After that, you’ll cap off the day with a stunning 36-minute helicopter ride above Haleakala Crater and Maui’s rugged coastline.

If you can’t decide between the tours in the two sections above, then a complete island Maui helicopter tour might be for you. These tours take you to all the sights covered in those sections, including the Haleakala Volcano, Road to Hana, and West Maui Mountains.

This is a great way to get an overview of the entire island of Maui. There’s so much to see and explore, and it’s often hard to see it all in a single trip. With a complete island helicopter tour, you won’t have to miss out on seeing anything in Maui.

Air Maui’s Complete Island Tour

Experience Maui like never before on Air Maui’s complete island tour. Gaze at the Haleakala Crater, drift above the Hana Rainforest, and marvel at the West Maui Mountains from a comfortable helicopter, expertly narrated by a professional pilot-guide. With both East and West Maui covered and glimpses of neighboring Molokai, it’s a sky-high tour offering unparalleled views of this tropical paradise.

Maverick Helicopters’ Complete Island Tour

Embark on a thrilling aerial adventure with Maverick Helicopters’ complete island tour. This narrated flight circles the entire island, offering captivating views of the Haleakala National Park, Hana Rainforest, towering cliffs, and scenic locales like Lahaina and Wailea. Witness the contrasting beauty of upcountry terrain and Hawaii’s azure beaches, making it a journey of a lifetime.

Blue Hawaiian’s Complete Island Tour

This helicopter tour from Blue Hawaiian actually has multiple routes to choose from, with one of them being a complete island tour. Choose your ideal route from four amazing options, each promising stunning views of sights like the Haleakala Crater, the Hana rainforest, and Molokai’s towering sea cliffs, all narrated by state-certified guides.

Last but definitely not least, on our list of the best Maui helicopter tours are “doors off” helicopter tours. The name says it all, but if it’s not clear, these are tours where the helicopter doesn’t have any doors, allowing you to take photos without window glare while feeling the wind on your face.

If that sounds exciting, then you’re in luck! Only one company offers these types of tours in all of Maui, and they are listed below. Check them out if you’re up for a thrilling ride.

Air Maui’s Doors Off Helicopter Tour

Experience Maui and Molokai like never before with Air Maui’s exhilarating ‘doors off’ helicopter flight, the only one of its kind on the island . Feel the island breeze as you soar above breathtaking landscapes, from lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls to spectacular circular rainbows. With no windows to obstruct your view or glare in your photos, you’ll fully immerse in Maui’s unparalleled beauty, making it an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Maui Helicopter Tours FAQ

All of the Maui helicopter tours listed on this page depart from the heliport at the Kahului Airport , where you likely started your trip if you flew to the island. That’s about a 30-60 minute car ride from most of the popular places to stay in West Maui and South Maui .

It’s hard to say exactly how far in advance you should book a Maui helicopter tour. For any activity in Maui, we usually recommend at least three months in advance to be safe. However, for helicopter tours, you could probably get away with a few weeks in advance. During peak seasons or holidays, booking even further in advance is advisable.

The duration of Maui helicopter tours can vary depending on your chosen tour. Typically, these tours range from 30 minutes to 2 hours in duration. Shorter tours usually focus on specific areas or landmarks, while longer tours offer a more comprehensive experience, covering multiple attractions. It’s best to check with the tour operator for precise details on tour durations.

Yes, you can usually bring a camera on a Maui helicopter tour. Many tour operators allow passengers to bring cameras or smartphones to capture the breathtaking views from the helicopter. However, it’s important to check with the specific tour company beforehand to ensure there are no restrictions or special guidelines regarding photography equipment.

Yes, there are often age and weight restrictions for Maui helicopter tours. The specific restrictions can vary depending on the tour operator and aircraft used. Generally, children under a certain age may be required to sit on a parent’s lap, and there might be weight limitations for safety reasons. It’s important to check with the tour company in advance if you’re not sure.

The number of people that can fit in a helicopter tour depends on the type of helicopter the tour operator uses. Most helicopters used for tours in Maui can accommodate between 4 to 7 passengers, including the pilot. However, there are also options for private tours or larger groups that can accommodate more passengers.

Motion sickness can affect individuals differently, and some may experience it during a Maui helicopter tour. The nature of helicopter flights, including maneuvers and changes in altitude, can contribute to motion sickness for susceptible individuals. To minimize the risk, taking motion sickness medication, sitting in a forward-facing seat, avoiding heavy meals before the tour, and focusing on the horizon or fixed points during the flight is advisable.

Meet the Authors

Aloha! We’re Justin and Katie, the owners of Maui Hideaway. We’ve been visiting Hawaii together with our family for 20 years and would love to share the experience of the islands with you. Whether you’re looking for a place to stay or just some vacation advice, we’re here to help!

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You haven’t seen Maui unless you’ve seen it from the best view possible – the sky. Miles of pristine coastline await you on exquisite tours departing from Maverick’s Kahului Heliport in Maui. Whether it is the Haleakala Crater, the Hana Rainforest, or the sea cliffs of Molokai you’re sure to experience a one-of-a-kind adventure on a helicopter tour of Maui.

Enjoy a helicopter tour of Maui and explore the heart of the Hana Rainforest with a remote landing.

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5 thrilling maui helicopter tours worth the cost.

Maui helicopter tours provide the best views of the island.

The Best Maui Helicopter Tours

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Maui's lush green rainforests, white sand beaches and impressive Haleakala Crater are breathtaking from land, but just imagine how awe-inspiring the views are from the air. If you're interested in a Maui helicopter tour, read on to see the top-rated options as determined by travel expert opinion and recent reviews.

Air Maui Helicopter Tours – Hana Rainforest & Haleakala Crater

Price: From $337 Duration: 45 minutes

Soar high above some of the most notable landmarks in Maui with Air Maui's Hana & Haleakala tour. This flight features panoramic views of one of the world's largest dormant volcanoes, Haleakala Crater. Flying over the lush Hana rainforest, with its low valleys and spectacular waterfalls that flow into the sea, is another highlight. Along the way, your pilot provides narration of the sights. Reviewers say this trip is one of the best ways to see the stunning tropical landscape of Maui and describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Air Maui Helicopter Tours depart daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Doors-off flights to West Maui and Molokai are also available.

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Blue Hawaiian Helicopter Tours – Waterfalls of West Maui & Molokai

Price: From $399 Duration: 50 minutes

On this Maui helicopter tour, you'll fly over the world's tallest sea cliffs along 88 miles of pristine coastline plus see waterfalls on Molokai's north shore. Listen to the pilots describe Maui's rich culture as you soar above lush rainforests, deep valleys and the dramatic peaks of the cloud-shrouded West Maui Mountains. Reviewers say this an experience not-to-be-missed while in Maui. They also praise the pilot's professionalism, attention to safety and knowledge of the island.

Tours are offered several times a day starting at 8:10 a.m. and ending at 4:45 p.m. Blue Hawaiian also offers helicopter tours of Hana and Haleakala, as well as a 90-minute tour of the island.

Maverick Helicopters – Molokai Voyage

Price: From $369 Duration: 55 minutes

Soar high above stellar scenery on this multi-island flight. As you fly from Maui to Molokai, you'll enjoy an eyeful of the West Maui Mountains and the Kapalua, Lahaina and Kaanapali resort developments. Molokai offers even more incomparable sights, including the Halawa Valley and Elephant Rock. Reviewers say this is an incredible experience, even the highlight of their trip, and that the pilots are very knowledgeable about the history and terrain of Hawaii.

Tours depart several times daily from the Kahului Heliport starting at 9 a.m. and ending at 3 p.m., though the exact schedule varies. Flights over the Hana rainforest are also available.

Sunshine Helicopters – Molokai Deluxe Tour

Price: From $325 Duration: 55 minutes

This Molokai helicopter tour is a grand flight that heads out over west Maui before crossing the Pailolo Channel en route to Molokai's remote north shore, which is home to some of Hawaii's tallest waterfalls and Kalaupapa National Historical Park. During the return journey, the helicopter flies over Maui's ancient Hawaiian fishponds as well as a 25-mile-long coral reef. Travelers offer praise for the smooth flight and beautiful views.

Tours are typically available multiple times each week in the morning or afternoon. Tours that fly over the Haleakala Crater are also available, among other options.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – Complete Island Maui

Price: From $479 Duration: 65 minutes

On this tour, you'll view everything from Oheo Gulch to Hana Town to Maui's mountains as you fly over the whole island. During your flight, guides certified by the state of Hawaii will tell you all about the state, its nature and its history. Reviewers say the tour is spectacular; a few were repeat customers.

Tours typically depart at 1:30 p.m., but availability varies by day, so you may want to contact the company for up-to-date flights.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can expect to pay at least $325 per person for a helicopter ride. However, fees will vary by company, tour length and inclusions.

A good rule of thumb is to tip your pilot (who typically doubles as your tour guide) about $15 to $20 per passenger. Alternatively, you can tip 15% to 20% of the total cost of your tour. Tipping is greatly appreciate by pilots, but not mandatory.

Your flight outfit should be something your comfortable in; if you choose a doors-off tour, you may want to bring an extra layer. Multiple companies also recommend wearing solid, dark clothing to limit the glare on the windows in order to snap better photos.

Anytime of day is perfect for flying, thanks to Hawaii's gorgeous weather. However, it's recommended you book your flight well in advance to get your preferred day. You'll also want to schedule a tour at the beginning of your trip in case your flight is canceled; this way, you'll have more opportunities to rebook.

All tours have a maximum total weight for all passengers. However, individual companies and aircraft have different limits. Contact your tour provider before you book for their policies. Additionally, you may be weighed before your flight so the crew can assign seats to evenly distribute passenger weight.

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Maui’s only helicopter flight school.

Go Fly Maui is the premier helicopter charter , flight training and aerial photography company located on the island of Maui. We are passionate about helicopters and love sharing the thrill of flying!

Flying with us is a fully customized experience. There are no set plans, schedules or routes. We work with you; the photographer, the aspiring career pilot or the visitor to Maui to design the perfect flight to accomplish your goals and to see some of Maui’s stunning scenery.

Let’s go fly!

FLY TO LANAI, HANA, HONOLULU, OR JUST CIRCLE AND SEE THE SIGHTS

Private charter flights.

Go Fly Maui offers private helicopter charter services for Maui and the surrounding Hawaiian Islands.

Enjoy the convenience of flying between Kahului and Lanai, Hana, Oahu or Hawaii Island, or plan an island adventure and experience Pacific paradise from the air.

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Take a discovery flight.

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a pilot? Join us for a Discovery Flight.

In this hands-on session, YOU take the controls of a Robinson R22 or R44 helicopter and soar over Maui with one of our seasoned instructors. No experience necessary … just a bold sense of adventure.

FLY “DOORS OFF” ON A CUSTOM MAUI ADVENTURE

Private photo flights.

All photo flights are exclusive, custom tailored excursions.

We fly “doors off” to give you an unobstructed view of all that Maui has to offer.

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PHOTO FLIGHTS

Bring your camera, and sense of adventure. We’re not like other helicopter companies. All Go Fly Maui flights are private, all itineraries are custom. No doors, no pre-planned routes. No limit to the incredible photos you’ll collect.

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Intrigued by the thought of learning to fly? We offer discovery flights that allow the curious to learn what it takes to become a pilot. Ready to take flight? We help students earn their private pilot license, commercial license, instrument ratings, instructor ratings and certifications.

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Created for photographers, by photographers, this is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn the nuance of capturing incredible images from the air, and put it into practice, with insights for both budding photographers and seasoned professionals.

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Go Fly Maui is Maui’s preeminent school for earning a Remote Pilot Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), also known as a drone license, Part 107 license, or Part 107 certificate.

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An unforgetable way to punctuate any special moment, such as weddings, proposals, blessings, anniversary celebrations, graduation ceremonies, May Day and Lei Day observance, memorial services, celebrations of life and “paddle outs.”

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My photos and videos are so amazing!

I would recommend this adventure to everyone visiting Maui.

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(Nick) customized our tour based on what we wanted to see!

Being a helicopter pilot myself, I can tell you from experience there is no better company on the island to fly with than Go Fly Maui!

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Complete Island

Maui spectacular.

with Private Landing (1 Hour 30 Minutes)

Featuring Blue Hawaiian

SPECIAL PRICE $490.00

Feat. Blue Hawaiian

Feat. Maverick

Feat. Air Maui

The complete island helicopter tour covers the most scenic sites of both west and east maui. experience famous haleakala crater at 10,023 feet elevation. next fly to hana rain forest which features breathtaking waterfalls and valleys. the tour will finish by heading into the west maui mountains and the pu’u kukui watershed where you will witness jaw dropping waterfalls and razor sharp valleys..

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A combination of our West Maui and Hana/Haleakala helicopter tours, featuring an exciting bonus! This comprehensive tour of the island begins with a flight exploration of the most magnificent West Maui valleys, rainforest, and waterfalls. Then comes the bonus: we land at the our exclusive and remote location at Ulupalakua Ranch, on the slopes of Mt. Haleakala. Refreshments are served while you take 20 minutes to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, pastoral setting, and sweeping views of what Maui folks call “both oceans.” The flight then continues for a 45-minute aerial tour of the best of East Maui, including Hana & Haleakala.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters 1, Lelepio Pl, Kahului, HI 96732

World's Finest Helicopters

The helicopter you fly in has a huge impact on the quality of your air-tour experience, which is why Blue Hawaiian provides the best helicopters in the industry. Compare our state-of-the-art Eco-Star (EC-130) helicopters to others in the industry. Blue Hawaiian EC-130’s offer incomparable passenger comfort and an advanced technological experience.

Experience of a lifetime. Thank you!!

Pete was amazing! The history and knowledge was amazing! We highly recommend!

Amazing experience. Great for the kids. Definitely something we will do again. Sami was great. She made us feel safe, comfortable and we had an absolute blast!

Excellent flight! Tim was a great pilot, and we enjoyed the comments on Hawaiian culture. Highly recommend Blue Hawaiian helicopters. We felt very safe.

$539.00 per/person, starting from rate

Front-Row Seat Reservation

Combined front row seat weight must be under 470 lbs and individual passenger weights must be 240 lbs. Should actual weights during check-in exceed any of these limits guests will be accommodated in other seats and a refund will be made for the premium upgrade fee. Front row passengers must occupy their own seats and must be able to refrain from interfering with the pilot and instrumentation. At least one of the front seat occupants must be 15 years of age or older and capable of performing emergency aircraft egress procedures. Lap children cannot be accommodated in the front row. In the event of an emergency front row passengers must be able to receive instructions in English and be physically capable of operating exit doors. Our chair lifts are only able to access the rear row of seats therefore guests requiring a chair lift to board the helicopter cannot be accommodated in the front row.

Other Maui Tours

Want the best of both worlds? This unique helicopter tour unites the best of East and West Maui to create an action-packed aerial view of the whole island. From the lush valleys of the West Maui Mountains to the rugged shoreline of Northeast Maui, you’ll have a panoramic view of it all....

Discover some of East Maui’s most unique sights on the Hana and Haleakala helicopter tour. Soar thousands of feet above the immense, moon-like crater of Mt. Haleakala—the world's largest dormant volcano! Gaze down at the beautiful Hana Rainforest Preserve on your way to the famous Seven...

The West Maui and Molokai helicopter tour takes you on an aerial adventure into some of the most remote and beautiful places in the world. Soar above 88 miles of untouched coastline, where towering waterfalls plunge from sea cliffs into the turquoise sea on Molokai’s north shore. Explore...

Explore deep, meandering valleys set in the rainforest of the ancient West Maui Mountains. Knife-edged ridges with mist-shrouded peaks separate the spectacular valleys that give Maui its nickname, "The Valley Isle." See the famous Iao valley and learn about the history and culture of the sights fro...

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MAUI CIRCLE ISLAND DELUXE HELICOPTER TOUR

Experience The Allure Of The Valley Isle

FLY HUNDREDS OF FEET ABOVE MAUI Copy Link Email Facebook

• Kahului, Maui, Hawaii

C ombine explorations of Maui’s East and West sides on this epic circle island adventure . From the air, you will be able to see the varied and beautiful landscape of Maui laid out before you like a living map. From the gentle slopes of Haleakala , to the legendary Wall of Tears hidden in the West Maui Mountains , this guided tour is sure to satisfy your sense of adventure.

From: $ 449 .00

BOOK YOUR FLIGHT

Choose Your Tour Style

65-Minute Maui Tour In Whisper Star Helicopter From Kahului

$ 449 .00

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1 st Guest Info Please fill in your Full Name as it appears on your GOVT ID - Passport or License Names

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Open Seating

Note: Open seating is determined based on weight & balance for all passengers.

Maximum body weight per individual is 290 lbs. Guests over 290lbs will need to purchase an additional Comfort Seat at $449/person.

First Class Seating

Note: Maximum combined weight for two passengers on FX STAR First Class is 400 lbs. Customers between 240 lbs and 290 lbs. may be required to purchase a comfort seat. Please call us via 1-808-460-8194 to book.

Maximum combined weight for two passengers on WHISPER First Class is 490 lbs. Customers between 240 lbs and 290 lbs may be required to purchase a comfort seat at $449/person.

Pick Up Or Activity Check-In Options

This tour has a check-in location. Do you have transportation to get around the island? If not, we can provide transportation.

• Check-In At The Activity Or Tour Start 0 $
• Round Trip Transportation ($250 / group, 5 guests or fewer) 250 $
• Round Trip Transportation ($350 / group, 6 to 14 guests) 350 $

Where are you staying?

Having your accommodation information helps us provide directions, travel tips and can more easily contact you if there is a change in plans last minute.

• Select Your Hotel Other Private Residence AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea Aina Nalu Aloha Aku Inn and Suites Aloha Cottage Aloha Pualani Boutiqe Hotel Aloha Surf Hostel Aloha Villas Kihei Andaz Maui at Wailea Aston at Papakea Resort Aston at the Maui Banyan Aston Kaanapali Shores Aston Mahana at Kaanapali Aston Maui Hill Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas Aston Maui Lu Aston Paki Maui Bamboo Inn On Hana Bay Banana Bungalow Maui Hostel Banyan Tree Bed and Breakfast Retreat Center Best Western Pioneer Inn Camp Olowalu Coconut Inn Cruise Ship Pier - Kahului, Maui Cruise Ship Tender - Lahaina, Maui Dancing Turtle B&B Eldorado Maui Fairmont Kea Lani Four Seasons Maui Garden at West Maui Grand Champions Grand Wailea Haggai Institute Hale Hui Kai Hale Kai O Kihei Hale Kai Oceanfront Condominiums Hale Kamaole Hale Ki Ili Hale Mahialani Hale Mahina Beach Hale Maui Hale Napili Hale Ono Loa Hale Pau Hana Haleakala Gardens Haleakala Shores Ho'olei Resort Hololani Hono Kai Hono Koa Vacation Club Honokeana Cove Honokowai Palms Honokowai Sunrise Honokowai Villa Honua Kai Resort & Spa Honua Kai Resort and Spa (Hokulani Tower) Honua Kai Resort and Spa (Konea Tower) Hotel Lahaina Hotel Wailea Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux Hoyochi Nikko Huelo Point Flower Farm Hyatt Regency Maui Resort And Spa Hyatt Residence Club International Colony Club Island Sands Island Surf Kaanapali Alii Kaanapali Beach Club Kaanapali Beach Hotel Kaanapali Ocean Inn Kaanapali Plantation Condominiums Kaanapali Royal Kahana Beach Kahana Falls Kahana Gateway Apartments Kahana Manor Kahana Outrigger Kahana Reef Kahana Sunset Kahana Village Kahana Villas Kahului Airport (OGG) Kalama Terrace Kaleialoha Kamaole Beach Club Kamaole Beach Royal Kamaole Nalu Kamaole One Kamaole Sands Kanai A Nalu Kapalani Estates Kapalua Airport (JHM) Kapalua Golf Villa Kapalua Ironwoods Kapalua Ridge Hotel Kapalua Villas Kapulanikai Vacation Apartments Kauhale Makai Kealia Resort Keawakapu Condos Kihei Akahi Kihei Alii Kai Kihei Bay Surf Kihei Bay Vista Kihei Beach Resort Kihei Cove Kihei Garden Est. Kihei Holiday Kihei Kai Kihei Kai Nani Kihei Manor Kihei Park Shore Kihei Regency Kihei Resort Kihei Sands Kihei Surfside Kihei Villages Koa Lagoon Koa Resorts Kohea Kai Resort Maui Kula Lodge Kulakane Kuleana Lahaina Inn Lahaina Oceanfront Estate Lahaina Roads Lahaina Shores Lahaina's Last Resort Lauloa Resort Leilani Kai Resort Leinaala Condominium Lokelani Luana Kai Lumeria Maui Retreat Center Maalaea Banyan Maalaea Kai Resort Maalaea Mermaid Maalaea Surf Maalaea Yacht Marina Condo Mahina Surf Mahinahina Beach Makai Inn Makani A Kai Makani Sands Makena Beach & Golf Resort Makena Surf Mana Kai Resort Marriott Maui Ocean Club Kaanapali Masters At Kaanapali Maui Banyan Maui Beach Hotel Maui Beach Vacation Club Maui Coast Maui Garden Oasis Maui Guest House Maui Kai Maui Kamaole Maui Oceanfront Maui Parkshore Maui Sands Maui Schooner Maui Seaside Hotel Maui Sunset Maui Vista Menehune Shores Milowai Condominium Resort Moana Lani Bed and Breakfast Montage at Kapalua Bay Nani Kai Hale Napili Bay Resort Napili Gardens Napili Hau Villages Napili Kai Beach Resort Napili Point Napili Ridge Napili Shores Napili Sunset Napili Surf Napili Village Noelani Condominium Resort Nohonani Maui Condos Nona Lani Cott. Old Lahaina House One Napili Way Pacific Shores Paia Inn Palms At Wailea Pineapple Hill Pineapple Inn Maui Pioneer Inn Plantation Inn Pohailani Maui Polo Beach Club Polo Beach Resort Polynesian Shores Puamana Vacations Punahoa Beach Condominiums Puunoa Beach Estates Residence Inn by Marriott Maui Wailea Ritz Carlton Kapalua Royal Kahana Royal Lahaina Royal Mauian Sands Of Kahana Sheraton Maui Shores of Maui South Pointe Sugar Beach Resort The ilikahi The Mauian Hotel The Old Wailuku Inn at Ulupono The Pikake The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach Tiki Beach Hostel Valley Isle Resort Village by the Sea Villas By The Cove Wailea Beach Resort - Marriott Maui Wailea Beach Villas Wailea Ekahi Wailea Ekolu Wailea Elua Wailea Fairway Villas Wailea Inn Maui Wailea Point Waiohuli Beach Hale Waipuilani Condominium Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas (South) Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas North Westin Maui Resort & Spa Westin Nanea Ocean Villas Worldmark Maui 0 $

Please enter in the address or name of the resort where you are staying.

To join this tour guests may be picked up by their guide at this accommodation or will need to check in at a safe location nearby. Please refer to your confirmation email for details. Mahalo!

Meet at the front entrance of the AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea.

The lobby of the Aina Nalu.

Your pick up location may differ from your hotel and may require you to drive to the nearest safe pickup location. Please refer to your confirmation email for instructions.

Meet in front of property on Uluniu Road.

Meet at the front lobby of the Andaz Maui At Wailea.

Meet at the lobby of the Papakea Resort at the Papakea sign on Lower Honapi'ilani.

Meet at the bench in the front of Building G, facing the beach and South Kihei Road.

Meet at the front lobby of Kaanapali Shores.

Meet at the lobby of the Aston Mahana at Kaanapali.

Meet at the South Kihei Road outside near the sign of the Aston Maui Hill.

Meet at the front Lobby at Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas.

Meet at the entrance of the lobby at Aston Maui Lu.

Meet at the lobby of Aston Paki Maui.

Meet at the lobby of the Pioneer Inn.

Meet at the Bus stop out front of the Napili Shores Maui by Outrigger.

Cruise Ship Pier - Kahului, Maui.

Cruise Ship Tender - Lahaina, Maui.

Meet at the lobby of Eldorado Maui.

Meet at the entrance of the lobby at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea.

Meet in front of the office of Garden at West Maui.

Meet at the Guard Shack in front of Grand Champions.

Meet at the Group Lobby of Grand Wailea.

Meet at the Security Gate of Haggai Institute.

Meet at the Driveway Entrance of South Kihei Road outside Hale Hui Kai.

Meet at the Driveway Entrance outside Hale Kai O Kihei.

Meet at the driveway entrance on Lower Honoapiilani Road.

Meet in front of Hale Kamaole on South Kihei Road.

Meet at the roadside in front of the Hale Mahina Beach Resort.

Meet at the Driveway Entrance on Lower Honoapiilani Rd. in font of the Hale Maui Apartment.

Meet at the Driveway Entrance of the Hale Napili.

Meet at the Driveway Entrance of Hale Ono Loa.

Meet in front of the office of Hale Pau Hana.

Meet at the Driveway Entrance of Haleakala Gardens.

Meet at the Driveway Entrance on South Kihei Road in front of Haleakala Shores.

Meet at the entrance by the sign of the Hololani.

Meet at the roadside in front of the Hono Kai.

Meet at the driveway entrance in front of the Hono Koa.

Meet at the entrance on Lower Honoapiilani Rd, by the sign of the Honokeana Cove.

Meet at the driveway entrance of the Honokowai Palms.

Meet at the driveway entrance of Honokowai Sunrise.

Meet at the roadside entrance of the Honokowai Villa.

Meet at the lobby of Honua Kai Resort & Spa.

Meet at the lobby of Honua Kai Resort and Spa.

Meet at the curbside of 127 Lahainaluna Rd in Lahaina Town (downstairs of the Hotel Lahaina).

Meet at the entrance of the lobby at Hotel Wailea Maui.

Meet at the lobby of Hotel Wailea.

Meet at driveway entrance of the Hoyochi Nikko.

Meet at the back parking lot of the Hyatt Regency Maui.

Meet at the lobby of Hyatt Residence Club.

Meet at the driveway entrance of International Colony Club.

Meet at the driveway entrance of Island Sands.

Meet at the front parking lot on S. Kihei Rd. in front of the Island Surf.

Meet at the front lobby of Kaanapali Alii Resort.

Meet at the lobby of Kaanapali Beach Club.

Meet at the lobby of Kaanapali Beach Hotel.

Meet at the Luau Kiosk at Royal Lahaina Hotel.

The entrance of the lobby at Kaanapali Plantation.

Meet at the security gate of the Kaanapali Royale.

Meet at the lobby of Kahana Beach.

Meet at the lobby of Kahana Falls.

Meet in front of the lobby at Kahana Gateway Apartments.

Meet outside on Lower Honoapiilani Rd. at the entrance of Kahana Manor.

Meet at the driveway entrance on Lower Honoapiilani Rd. of Kahana Outrigger.

Meet at the front parking lot on Lower Honoapiilani Rd. in front of Kahana Reef.

Meet on Lower Honoapiilani Rd. by the entrance sign of the Kahana Sunset.

Meet at the driveway entrance of the Kahana Village on Lower Honoapiilani Rd.

Meet at the entrance of the lobby at Kahana Villas.

Meet in front of entrance sign on Walaka Street and Hua Place.

The entrance of the Kaleialoha Condos.

Meet at the driveway entrance on South Kihei Rd. outside of the Kamaole Beach Club.

Meet at the driveway entrance of the Kamaole Beach Royale.

Meet on South Kihei Rd. outside of the Kamaole Nalu Resort.

Meet at the driveway entrance of Kamaole One.

Meet at the driveway entrance on South Kihei Rd. outside of Kamaole Sands.

Meet at the driveway entrance on Hauoli St in front of the Kana'i A Nalu sign.

Pickup at the Kapalua Village Center.

Meet at the driveway entrance of Kapulanikai Vacation Apartments.

Meet at the sign in front of the Kauhale Makai.

Meet at the driveway entrance at the Kealia Resort sign on North Kihei Road.

Meet on South Kihei Rd. outside of the Kihei Akahi.

Meet at the driveway entrance of the lower parking lot at the Kihei Alii Kai.

Meet at the driveway entrance on South Kihei Rd. outside of Kihei Bay Surf.

Meet at the driveway entrance on South Kihei Rd. outside of Kihei Bay Vista.

Meet at the driveway entrance on South Kihei Rd. outside of Kihei Beach Resort.

Meet at the driveway entrance on Uluniu Rd next to Kihei Garden Estates sign.

Meet at the driveway entrance on South Kihei Rd outside of Kihei Holiday Resort.

Meet at the driveway entrance on North Kihei Rd outside of Kihei Kai Oceanfront Condominiums.

Meet at the guard shack of Kihei Kai Nani.

Meet at the South Kalama Lot of Kihei Park Shore.

Meet at the driveway entrance on South Kihei Rd outside of Kihei Resort.

Meet at the driveway entrance of the lobby at Kihei Sands Beachfront Condominiums.

Meet at the lobby on South Kihei Rd outside of Kihei Surfside Resort.

Meet at the entrance on Kenolio Rd.

Meet at the bench outside of the Koa Lagoon Lobby.

Meet at the Maui Beach Vacation Club Lot.

Meet on South Kihei Rd outside of Koa Resort.

Meet at the roadside at the North entrance the Kuleana Resort.

Meet at the street entrance of Lahaina Inn.

Meet at the street entrance of the Lahaina Roads.

Meet at the entrance of the lobby of the Lahaina Shores Beach Resort.

Meet at the Lot Across 76 Gas.

Meet at the driveway entrance of Lauloa Resort.

Meet at the driveway entrance Leilani Kai Resort.

Meet at the driveway entrance on South Kihei Road outside of the Leinaala Condos.

Meet at the driveway entrance of the Lokelani Condos.

Meet on the South Kihei Rd outside of the Luana Kai Resort.

Meet at the driveway entrance of the Maalaea Banyans.

Meet at the driveway entrance (next to Maalaea Kai Sign) on Hauoli St.

Meet at the driveway entrance of the lobby at Maalaea Mermaid.

Meet at the driveway entrance of Maalaea Surf.

Meet at the driveway entrance of Maalaea Yacht Marina.

Meet at the driveway entrance of the Mahina Surf.

Meet at the driveway entrance of Mahinahina Beach.

Meet at the 5 Palms Lahaina Parking Lot.

Meet at the driveway entrance of Makani A Kai.

Meet at the driveway entrance of the Makani Sands.

Meet at the lobby of Makena Beach & Golf Resort.

Meet at the security gate of Makena Surf Resort.

Meet at the front lobby of Mana Kai Maui.

Meet at the side lobby of the Marriott Maui Ocean Club Kaanapali.

Meet at the security gate the Masters At Kaanapali.

Meet at the Parking Lot of Building F of Maui Banyan.

Meet at the lobby of Maui Beach Hotel.

Meet at the lobby of the Maui Beach Vacation Club.

Meet at the front lobby of the Maui Coast Hotel.

Meet at the Cannery Mall Long's Drugs.

Meet at the driveway of Maui Guest House.

Meet at the lobby of the Maui Kai.

Meet at the roundabout in front of Building B, at the top of the driveway before you go down the hill to South Kihei Road.

Meet at the driveway entrance of Maui Oceanfront.

Meet on South Kihei Rd outside of the Maui Parkshore.

Meet at the driveway entrance of the Maui Sands.

Meet at the South Kihei Rd outside of the Maui Schooner.

Meet at the lobby of the Maui Seaside Hotel.

Meet at the lobby of "B" building of Maui Sunset.

Meet on South Kihei Rd outside of Maui Vista.

Meet at the lobby of Menehune Shores.

Meet at the driveway entrance of the Milowai Condos.

Meet at the 5 Palms Parking Lot.

Meet at the lobby of the Montage At Kapalua Bay.

Meet at the driveway entrance on North Kihei Rd outside of Nani Kai Hale.

Meet at the lobby of Napili Bay Resort.

Meet in front of the sign on Lower Honoapiilani Highway.

Meet at the lobby of the Napali Kai Beach Resort.

Meet at the entrance on the lower road at Napili Point.

Meet at the driveway entrance of Napili Ridge.

Meet at the lobby of Napili Shores.

Meet at the entrance of the Napilii Bay resort across the street from the Napili Sunset.

Meet at the driveway entrance on the lower road at Napili Surf Beach Resort.

Meet at the driveway entrance on Lower Honoapiilani Hwy near the sign of Napili Village.

Meet at the roadside of the Noelani Condos.

Meet at the driveway entrance at the Nohonani Maui Condos.

Meet at the driveway entrance of South Kihei Rd outside of the Nona Lani Cottages.

Meet at the Lahaina Shores Lobby.

Meet at the driveway entrance of One Napili Way.

Meet on the safeway Kahului Hookele Street.

Meet at the Main Entrance to Phase 1 of the Palms At Wailea.

Meet at the lobby of Pioneer Inn.

Meet at the driveway entrance of the Plantation Inn.

Meet the driveway entrance on Lower Honoapiilani Rd at the sign of Pohailani Maui.

Meet at the lobby of the Polo Beach Club.

Meet at the driveway entrance of the Polynesian Shores.

Meet at the security gate of Puamana Vacations.

Meet at the driveway entrance of Punahoa Beach Condos.

Meet at the entrance of the Puunoa Beach Estates.

Meet at the entrance of the Residence Inn by Marriott Maui Wailea.

Meet at the front lobby of the The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua.

Meet at the lobby of the Royal Kahana.

Meet at the Luau Kiosk at Royal Lahaina Resort.

Meet on South Kihei Rd outside of Royal Mauian.

Meet at the lobby of the Sands of Kahana.

Meet at the group lobby of the Sheraton Maui.

Meet in front of the office of Shores of Maui.

Meet at the Parking Lot @ Gear.

Meet at the driveway entrance of the Mauian Hotel.

Meet at the entrance of the The Old Wailuku Inn at Ulupono.

Meet at the driveway entrance of Pikake.

Meet at the lobby of the The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach.

Meet at the driveway entrance of the Valley Isle Resort.

Meet at the lobby of the Village By The Sea.

Meet at the parking lot of Villas By The Cove.

Meet at the waterfall in front of the guest reception desk at the Wailea Beach Marriott Resort.

Meet at the lobby of the Wailea Beach Villas.

Meet at the closest driveway to street outside the Wailea Ekahi.

Meet at the closest driveway to street outside the Wailea Ekolu.

Meet at the security gate of the Wailea Elua.

Meet outside of main gate on 2141 Iliili Rd.

Meet at the security gate of Wailea Point.

Meet at the driveway entrance of Waiohuli Beach Hale.

Meet on South Kihei Rd outside of Waipuilani Condominiums.

Meet at the lobby of the Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas (South).

Confirm with our Reservations Department which Tower you will be staying in for pick up.

Outside the Group Lobby on the curb.

View directions here.

Meet at the entrance of the Lobby at Westin Nanea Kaanapali.

Meet at the entrance of the WorldMark Kihei.

Comments & Special Requests

Sales are final for tours starting within the next 72 hours. Please double-check your info before checking out.

Maui Circle Island Deluxe Helicopter Tour Features

Wall of Tears

You may not have seen the Wall of Tears on many guidebooks or websites, and that is because it is hidden deep in the West Maui Mountains and not very accessible from the ground. As many as 17 waterfalls can be seen cascading down a cliff face at a time, hence the name Wall of Tears. A helicopter is one of the best and only ways to see this incredible site.

Seven Sacred Pools

Seven Sacred Pools ‘Ohe’o Gulch, otherwise known as Seven Sacred Pools, was added to Haleakala National Park in 1969. When the water levels are up, there are seven main pools and dozens of smaller pools branching off of them. From the air, this site is truly magnificent.

Experience Unparalleled Beauty

Unlike hiking or driving on Maui, a helicopter provides a unique experience that a plane can't match. Enjoy the intimacy of soaring through the sky. Feeling every twist and turn as you maneuver through valleys, soar over mountaintops and skim the coastline. From this vantage point, you can truly appreciate the island's beauty from above. Witnessing its lush landscapes and stunning vistas in a way that's impossible from the ground. It's an adventure that offers a fresh perspective. Allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the natural splendor of Maui.

Maui Circle Island Deluxe Helicopter Tour Details

Price & calendar.

Take in massive views of Central Maui

Circle Haleakala

See Hana’s famous waterfalls

Enjoy an aerial view of the varied landscape

60 – 70 minutes of flight time

Narrated by your pilot

View Otherwise Unreachable Locations

An Adventure For The Whole Family

Be sure to arrive at the Kahului Airport 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to check in for the flight and meet your pilot. After lifting off, your pilot will head to the interior of the West Maui Mountains, which could be described as a misty wonderland. Steep volcanic ridges covered in thick vegetation reach towards the sky and in between those ridges lay miles of jungle valleys. Highlights of the West Maui Mountains include the Wall of Tears and Maui’s tallest waterfall which is Honokohau Falls. As your pilot follows the West Maui coastline back towards Central Maui, you will be treated to views of the resorts in Kapalua and Kaanapali as well as beautiful and historic Lahaina Town.

After flying over the now overgrown sugarcane and pineapple fields of Central Maui, your pilot will ascend the gentle slopes that lead to the peak of the world’s largest dormant volcano, Haleakala. The inside of Haleakala’s central crater is an otherworldly landscape with massive iron oxide cinder cones that reach over 1,000 feet into the air. Around the backside of Haleakala, enjoy views of Kaupo, Ko’olau Gap, the Seven Sacred Pools, Charles Lindbergh's grave and much much more. Following the coastline, the jungle will become much more dense as you approach the small town of Hana nestled in the rainforest. As the tour continues following the traditional route of the Road to Hana, be prepared to see unforgettable views of the jungles, waterfalls, sea cliffs, and volcanic peninsulas that make this region so incredible. As the tour concludes, you will fly over Maui’s North Shore which is home to legendary surf breaks and the small town of Paia.

A high-definition video of your flight will be available for purchase after your flight. The video will allow you to relive the memories of this amazing experience and it will be narrated by your pilot.

Open Seating:

• Open seating is determined based on weight & balance for all 6 passengers.
• Maximum body weight per individual is 290 lbs. Guests over 290lbs will need to purchase a an additional Comfort Seat.

First Class:

• Maximum combined weight for two passengers on WHISPER First Class is 490 lbs.
• Customers between 240 lbs and 290 lbs may be required to purchase a comfort seat.

Notes: Helicopter weight and balance changes with every flight because of passenger weight, pilot weight and length of flight (fuel weight). It is important that we have accurate body weight from every passenger. FAA regulations require all passengers and their carry-on items to be weighed at time of check-in.

A 72-hour cancellation or change of tour notice is required for all helicopter tours. If for any reason you decide to cancel or change your reservation, you must notify us 72-hours prior to the tour date. Sorry, cancellations or changes made within 72-hours of the tour are not refundable and will be charged in full. If you decide to cancel or change your reservation, we require a Reference Number or Order ID and the credit card number used at the time of the reservation. All flights are weather permitting. If for any reason a flight was cancelled by Sunshine Helicopters due to the weather, your ticket will be fully refunded or you may choose to re-schedule your tour plans. Please note that flight routes and destinations may be changed due to weather conditions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a set schedule and what is the best time to fly, will high winds cause issues, do helicopters have restrooms.

Book Maui Circle Island Deluxe Helicopter Tour

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We create opportunities for wonderful memories with your family and friends at a great value. Each day is an important time investment. You won’t waste your time or money choosing us.

Stress-Free Bookings & Changes

Book your tour now and make changes at no cost. Our team is here to make your trip exceptional. We will make sure you are taking the right tour on the right day (on the right island!).

We Provide Custom Island Tours

We are a full-service tour operator and travel agency based here in Hawaii. We provide small group shared and private sightseeing tours. Check out our tours or book a private to customize your day even more.

Tour Experience Full Of Aloha

We will never forget our roots and that is to deliver wonderful island experiences every day. Please reach out to us at any time by email, chat, and text. Or call us between 8 AM and 5 PM daily, Hawaiian time.

• 378 Aliiolani St., Pukalani, HI 96768
• 1-808-900-7253
• [email protected]
• Open Daily 5:00am to 9:00pm, HST

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Sunshine Helicopters

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Soar through breathtaking scenery on helicopter tours of Maui, Big Island, & Kauai

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Experience the Adventure of a Lifetime!

Sunshine Helicopters offers helicopter tours and sightseeing tours of Maui, Molokai, Kauai, and Hawaii Big Island. Experience Hawaii’s hidden wonders that can only be discovered from the air and see areas where no one has ever set foot. Soar with us above the Hawaiian Islands aboard our state-of-the-art helicopters.

Hawaii air tours offer spectacular aerial views of dormant and active volcanoes including Haleakala National Park on the island of Maui and Volcano National Park on the island of Hawaii. The Intensity of the volcanic landscape and hidden tropical valleys will surely take your breath away. You will see lush valleys dotted with waterfalls, secluded beaches, and areas only accessible by one of our helicopter tours.

Our experienced pilots’ narration provides a rich history and knowledge of the Hawaiian Islands. Our reservations staff, friendly customer service crew, experienced pilots and well-trained mechanics make your safety and comfort our number one priority.

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I took my son for a holiday gift and was a bit nervous, but the ride was very smooth and actually calming. It was an enjoyable ride and loved seeing all the breathtaking views from the a much different vantage point. It was an incredible experience that we’ll always remember.

The ground crew were efficient and helpful, our pilot was highly experienced, professional and very informative about the island, as well as being very entertaining. It was a great tour and a great experience - highly recommended.

Sunshine helicopters did an amazing job of flying our family into the Waimea canyon, thru the waterfalls and around the Napali coast. Our pilot was extremely skilled and a great guide of the sights! The flight was smooth and comfortable but we were in awe and amazement of the scenery.

So thankful for my daughter who read up about helicopter tours on our first visit to Kauai. No other way to experience the untouched beauty of this island. Happy with sunshine helicopters and enjoyed Steve, our pilot. Funny and informative, made the trip special! No regrets and got spectacular pictures!

A helicopter tour is a must on Kaua'i if you want to really see the island. Sunshine staff was great from the gals at the sign in, to the safety briefing and ride to the airport, and then the flight itself. We opted for the 1st class flight on the whisper helicopter and it was worth the small difference in price to sit in the two front seats for the unobstructed views. Our pilot, Jed, was great and provided tons of information about the island. This was one of the highlights of our trip.

Most excellent experience even on a very rainy day across Kauai. Don't let the rain stop you from going on the tour. Despite the rain, we were able to get a very clear view of every point on the island and the extra rain only added to the amount of waterfalls that were able to be seen. Our pilot and ground staff were all great. Highly recommend Sunshine Helicopters in Lihue.

My son and I sat up front in the Whisper Star, the experience was incredible! Jaw dropping, unreal beauty. Everyone I spoke to and met at Sunshine was friendly and professional. Jed, the pilot, is competent and pleasant. We had a great time and got the video. Unreal beauty on Kauai.

The helicopter tour was amazing - we saw all the best known spots and also some where no one has ever walked before. Our pilot made sure we also got some adrenaline rush, but just the right amount! He also provided us with great explanation of what we were seeing and what to look out for. Would definitely recommend!

This excursion was unbelievable! Could not have been any better. All staff were exceptional. In over 55 years of travel this was one of the best “adventures “ I’ve ever experienced

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Click on buttons to see the 360° view, fx star helicopters.

AS-350 is the industry standard “Black Beauty” has all forward-facing customized bench style seats giving excellent visibility. Sunshine has flown over 1.6 million satisfied passengers in our “Black Beauties” since 1985. Upgraded in 2008 to the all-new AStar 350FX, the “FX” carries more weight, flies faster, is quieter and more fuel efficient. The increased capacity allows the FX to have “First Class” seating. Ross Scott, President says “the FX is the most environmentally friendly helicopter we operate with a lower noise footprint and 25% less fuel burn. It raises the bar for green helicopter air touring in Hawaii.”

FX First Class Seating:

Passengers enjoy “First Class” seating next to the pilot, with extra arm and leg room. Maximum combined weight for two passengers: 400 lbs.

FX Open Seating:

Industry standard six-passengers, seat assignment determined by weight and balance.

WhisperSTAR Helicopters

EC-130 B4 WhisperSTAR is the ultimate in sightseeing helicopters. More interior room, more visibility with added plexiglass and elevated rear seats. Sunshine customizes the standard factory interior with business and first-class seating to further enhance passenger comfort and visibility. Experience the superb quiet and ultra smooth most advanced technological sightseeing helicopter ever!

WhisperSTAR First Class Seating:

The three front seat configuration is replaced with two front seats. Passengers enjoy “First Class” seating next to the pilot, with extra arm and leg room. Maximum combined weight for two passengers: 490 lbs.

WhisperSTAR Open Seating:

Up to six-passengers, seat assignment determined by weight and balance.

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1 dead, 2 missing after tourist helicopter crashes off Hawaiian island of Kauai

In this photo provided by the U.S. Coast Guard, coast guardsmen participate in a search after a helicopter crash near Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii. The tour company aircraft went down off the Hawaiian island of Kauai, police said, in the latest in a series of crashes to plague the industry in recent years. (Ty Robertson/USCG via AP)

An ambulance enters Lihue Airport on the island of Kauai, Hawaii on Friday, July 12, 2024. A helicopter crashed into the ocean off the Hawaiian island of Kauai on Thursday leaving one person dead and two others missing, the Kauai Police Department said. (Chris Jensen via AP)

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HONOLULU (AP) — A tour company helicopter crashed off the Hawaiian island of Kauai, police said, killing one person and leaving two missing in the latest in a series of crashes to plague the industry in recent years.

A hiker on the Kalalau trail reported seeing the helicopter crash into the water about a quarter of a mile (0.4 kilometers) off the Na Pali Coast on Thursday afternoon and contacted the fire department, officials said.

The Robinson R44 helicopter was part of Ali’i Kauai Air Tours & Charters, authorities said.

The company bills itself as the only Hawaiian-family-owned and -operated air tour company on Kauai, and its website said it has more than three decades of flying experience. It offers private tours by plane or helicopter.

“Preliminary information indicates that the pilot on board was a local resident, and the two passengers on board are believed to be visitors from the mainland,” Kauai Police Chief Todd Raybuck said at a news conference Friday. Authorities did not provide their identities.

Kauai lifeguards on personal watercraft recovered one body from the water Thursday. They also saw what appeared to be an oil slick on the water, along with some small pieces of floating debris, Kauai Fire Chief Michael Gibson said.

The U.S. Coast Guard and Kauai crews continued searching Friday for the two people in the water.

The weather at the time was normal for this time of year with winds of about 15 mph to 25 mph, light clouds and scattered showers, Gibson said: “We do not believe the weather was a concern.”

The National Transportation Safety Board will investigate. Once the aircraft is recovered, an NTSB investigator will begin documenting the scene and examining the aircraft, the agency said Friday. The aircraft will then be recovered to a secure facility for further evaluation.

Last year the Federal Aviation Administration established a new process for air tour operators in Hawaii to be approved to fly at lower altitudes following other fatal crashes.

Tour operators can fly at 1,500 feet (460 meters) unless they have authorization to go lower. The FAA said it would review each operator’s safety plan before issuing permission.

The move came after three deadly crashes in 2019, including one that killed a pilot and six passengers on the Na Pali Coast. The NTSB blamed the crash on the pilot’s decision to continue flying in bad weather.

Three people died when a tour helicopter crashed in a Honolulu suburb , and 11 were killed when their skydiving plane went down after takeoff on Oahu’s North Shore. Federal investigators blamed that crash on the pilot’s aggressive takeoff.

Another helicopter crashed into a remote Big Island lava field during a sunset tour in June 2022, injuring the six people on board.

Ladd Sanger, a Texas-based aviation attorney and helicopter pilot, has handled air tour crash litigation in Hawaii and has flown a helicopter over Kauai.

The latest crash shows it’s not prudent to be flying single-engine helicopters over Hawaii, including off Kauai’s rugged coastline, he said.

“If there is an engine problem on Kauai, it is very likely going to be a terrible outcome,” he said. “It is a really rough island, and there are so few places to land a helicopter.”

A Robinson R44 is also more susceptible to Hawaii’s often-changing climates, he said.

“Kauai is gorgeous, and there is no way to see the beauty of Kauai but from a helicopter,” he said. “But it needs to be the right helicopter.”

Not many Hawaii tour companies operate twin-engine turbine helicopters because they’re more expensive, Sanger said.

“Our hearts go out to the families and friends of those affected,” David Smith, president and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company, said in a statement. “Safety is our highest priority, and we are cooperating fully with all investigating authorities to understand the circumstances surrounding this event.”

Robinson helicopters, including the R44 model, “have a proven track record of safe operation across diverse and challenging environments, from the mountainous terrain of Switzerland to the tropical climate of Hawaii,” the company said. “Robinson helicopters have been operating safely in Hawaii since the 1980s, with some operators flying up to 16,000 flight hours a year without incident.”

While the federal government generally controls air safety measures, Hawaii lawmakers have tried to indirectly make helicopter tours safer, said state Rep. Nadine Nakamura, whose Kauai district includes the Na Pali Coast.

But a bill last session attempting to increase aircraft liability insurance didn’t make it to the governor’s desk, she said.

She noted that past crashes have been due to a variety of issues including weather and mechanical problems.

“And that’s what visitors have to weigh — that there have been crashes in the past,” she said. “People have to balance their desire to see remote and exotic places, from a vantage point that is quite stunning, to the risks involved.”

Thiessen reported from Anchorage, Alaska.

Search suspended for pilot and passenger after tour helicopter crash off Kauaʻi

Authorities suspended the search for a tour helicopter pilot and one of his passengers after they crashed into the ocean off Kauaʻi last week.

The U.S. Coast Guard and Kauaʻi officials said they suspended the search Sunday after searching for about 60 hours across hundreds of square miles.

The Robinson R44 helicopter, of Ali’i Kauai Air Tours & Charters, was carrying the pilot and two passengers, a couple from Kentucky.

A hiker on the Kalalau trail reported seeing the helicopter crash into the water about a quarter of a mile off the Nāpali Coast on Thursday afternoon and contacted the fire department, officials said.

Lifeguards on personal watercraft recovered the body of one person on Thursday as crews searched for the other two. They also saw what appeared to be an oil slick on the water, along with some small pieces of floating debris, officials said.

It was the latest in a series of crashes to plague the air tour industry in recent years.

In announcing the search suspension Sunday, authorities identified the missing pilot as local resident Guy Croydon, 69, and the missing passenger as James Quintua, 60. The passenger recovered after the crash was Amy Nichole Ruark Quintua, 53.

The Quintuas were from Union, Kentucky, Kauaʻi officials said. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating.

Molokai man, wife, and Kauai pilot identified as victims of Kauai helicopter crash

K EKAHA, Hawaii (KHON2) — Kauai officials identified Jim Quintua, 60, and Amy Nichole Ruark Quintua, 53, as the two mainland passengers on board the helicopter that went down off the Na Pali coast on Thursday.

Find more Hawaii, Oahu, Maui and Kauai news here

Officials said Kauai Ocean Safety was able to recover Amy’s body on Thursday.

After over 60 hours of searching over 830 square miles, the U.S. Coast Guard and other partners, called off the search for Mr. Quintua and the pilot, Guy Croydon, 69, on Sunday afternoon.

“They may have been tourists, but Jimmy was a Molokai boy,” said cousin Johnessa Quintua. His mom and my father were brothers and sisters.

She said Jimmy was born in Kaunakakai, and in the 80s, his mother moved the family to Kentucky. It was there that he met Amy Nichole Ruark and fell in love.

“They would have gave the shirt off their back, they were such loving and caring people,” his cousin continued. “So, this one really hit everybody by surprise, and it hit everybody hard.”

He would visit home every summer, and just saw the family on Molokai over the 4th of July weekend.

“Then went to Maui, then they came here, and the final part of the trip was to Kauai, and it’s not the first time they’ve done that helicopter tour, they’ve done it before, it’s just…thing’s took a different turn on this trip which is very hard,” Johnessa Quntua added.

She said officials called his son’s back on the mainland to let them know their helicopter had crashed. “Then you’re like, what the heck? What do you mean? No, this can’t be true. Then you do the thing, you call their numbers and it goes straight to voicemail, you call the other ones and it goes to voicemail and it’s like you’re so far away, you can’t do anything and you just want to go there and hug them,” she added while crying.

She said she’s happy rescue crews were able to find Nichole, but said it’s hard to find closure when her cousin and the pilot were not found.

For now, she said it’s the little things that helps them know Jimmy is okay.

“I spoke to my cousin this morning, and she told me that she always had this gardenia plant that she planted and gardenia was her mom’s favorite flower. So she planted it, and all these years that she’s had it, it never had any flowers,” Johnessa said. “She could never get a flower off of it, and it just so happened this morning, she smelled this gardenia smell, and she said when she went outside and looked at her plant, it had flowers on it. And, you know, it’s just a sign that, you know, that Jimmy’s okay, he’s with us, he’s fine.”

Even Jimmy’s dog, Koa, back in Kentucky was howling around the time the helicopter crashed. Something the dog never does, the family said.

She said she wants to thank everyone for their prayers during this difficult time.

“It means a lot to all of us, it’s the little things you know? Sometimes we take for granted. Tomorrow is never promised, so love your loved ones and tell them you love them, because you never know the last time you’re going to see them,” she added.

Alii Kauai Air Tours and Charters has not responded to KHON2’s request for comment.

The pilot’s family has asked for privacy.

An old friend from high school said Croydon was focused on safety when he did the same helicopter tour two years ago.

Mark Anderson, went to St. Louis High School on Oahu, he moved to Illinois many years ago, but when he brought his wife back to Hawaii recently he knew he wanted to do a helicopter tour of the beautiful Na Pali Coast.

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“My older sister said call Guy Croydon, who she dated in high school and was a pilot,” said Anderson. “I knew he was an airline pilot, but I didn’t know he was a helicopter pilot. So we did our research and I reached out to Guy and made plans.”

He said it was great to see an old friend, and after talking story, Croydon got serious when going over the safety briefing of the helicopter. “He got serious for 15 to 20 minutes, and went through safety precautions with us,” Anderson added.

“He went over water safety with us, and said if we got into trouble and we were going down, he said he would do it over the ocean because it would give us the best chance of surviving,” Anderson added. “That tour was one of the most invigorating things we’ve ever done, we were scared out of our minds but Guy was so awesome and made us feel okay, you could tell he lived on Kauai for a long time, he knew so much about the island and was our own tour guide.”

He said it was one of the most amazing experiences he and his wife ever had on a helicopter.

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“I was shocked [when I heard it was Guy], not for one minute did we ever feel like we were in danger when we were on the helicopter, and there were some gusty winds that shook the chopper when we were up there, but he never batted an eye, he had it in control the whole time, we never felt in jeopardy,” Anderson added.

“I just feel terrible for his family and the other couple who were passengers on the chopper,” he added.

The NTSB has not assigned an investigator to the crash yet.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2.

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Update: Crews respond to tour helicopter crash in ocean along Kauaʻi’s Na Pali Coast; One dead, two missing

Update: 6:10 p.m., July 11, 2024

Multiple agencies are continuing a search and recovery operation for a helicopter that crashed in waters about a quarter mile offshore, fronting the Hanakoa Valley along Na Pali Coast of Kauaʻi on Thursday.

According to a preliminary report, hikers along the Kalalau Trail witnessed the helicopter crash into the water and reported the incident to dispatch Thursday afternoon. Kaua‘i Police Dispatch received the report of the incident at approximately 1:20 p.m. A helicopter with Ali‘i Kaua‘i Air Tours and Charters was involved in the crash.

“Our hearts go out to the families impacted by this tragedy. We will continue working with our partners to locate the missing individuals and provide support during this difficult time,” said Police Chief Todd Raybuck. “Our multi-agency response remains focused on the search and recovery efforts.”

According to a preliminary report, one person was recovered at approximately 2:25 p.m. and confirmed dead, with two others missing. Their identities have not been released.

“We are incredibly sad to hear of the life tragically lost today, and the two other individuals who are still missing after a helicopter crashed into waters off Kaua‘i’s Na Pali Coast,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. “While we do not know all the details surrounding the incident at this time, we do know that our first responders are doing everything they can in this emergency operation. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of all involved.”

“We extend our deepest condolences to the loved ones of those involved in this terrible incident,” said acting Governor Sylvia Luke. “As search and recovery operations continue, the State stands fully prepared to work in tandem with the County of Kaua‘i and our Federal partners. We thank all responders and agency partners for their assistance during this difficult time.”

The United States Coast Guard, personnel with the Kaua‘i Fire Department, Rescue 3 aboard Air 1, the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency, the Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency, personnel with the Ocean Safety Bureau, and the Kaua‘i Police Department are responding to this incident.

Search and rescue operations with County assets will be paused at sundown due to the safety of the first responders, and County operations will continue at first light on Friday. However, crews with the United States Coast Guard will search throughout the evening on Thursday.

The  Federal Aviation Administration has put a temporary flight restriction for the search area during this operation.

Update: 4 p.m., July 11, 2024

Officials have confirmed that the helicopter crash off Kauaʻi was reported at approximately 1:20 p.m. Thursday, July 11, 2024.  

Posted: 3:34 p.m., July 11, 2024

Multiple agencies are responding to a report of a helicopter crash in the ocean, fronting the Hanakoa Valley along Na Pali Coast of Kauaʻi on Thursday.

The United States Coast Guard, Rescue 3 aboard Air 1, the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency, the Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency, personnel with the Ocean Safety Bureau, and the Kaua‘i Police Department are responding to this incident.

At this time, there is no confirmed information on injuries or victims.

*This post will be updated as more information becomes available.

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1 dead, 2 missing after tourist helicopter crashes off Hawaiian island of Kauai

In this photo provided by the U.S. Coast Guard, coast guardsmen participate in a search after a helicopter crash near Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii. The tour company aircraft went down off the Hawaiian island of Kauai, police said, in the latest in a series of crashes to plague the industry in recent years. (Ty Robertson/USCG via AP)

By MARK THIESSEN and JENNIFER SINCO KELLEHER Associated Press

HONOLULU (AP) — A tour company helicopter crashed off the Hawaiian island of Kauai, police said, killing one person and leaving two missing in the latest in a series of crashes to plague the industry in recent years.

A hiker on the Kalalau trail reported seeing the helicopter crash into the water about a quarter of a mile (0.4 kilometers) off the Na Pali Coast on Thursday afternoon and contacted the fire department, officials said.

The Robinson R44 helicopter was part of Ali’i Kauai Air Tours & Charters, authorities said.

The company bills itself as the only Hawaiian-family-owned and -operated air tour company on Kauai, and its website said it has more than three decades of flying experience. It offers private tours by plane or helicopter.

“Preliminary information indicates that the pilot on board was a local resident, and the two passengers on board are believed to be visitors from the mainland,” Kauai Police Chief Todd Raybuck said at a news conference Friday. Authorities did not provide their identities.

Kauai lifeguards on personal watercraft recovered one body from the water Thursday. They also saw what appeared to be an oil slick on the water, along with some small pieces of floating debris, Kauai Fire Chief Michael Gibson said.

The U.S. Coast Guard and Kauai crews continued searching Friday for the two people in the water.

The weather at the time was normal for this time of year with winds of about 15 mph to 25 mph, light clouds and scattered showers, Gibson said: “We do not believe the weather was a concern.”

The National Transportation Safety Board will investigate. Once the aircraft is recovered, an NTSB investigator will begin documenting the scene and examining the aircraft, the agency said Friday. The aircraft will then be recovered to a secure facility for further evaluation.

Last year the Federal Aviation Administration established a new process for air tour operators in Hawaii to be approved to fly at lower altitudes following other fatal crashes.

Tour operators can fly at 1,500 feet (460 meters) unless they have authorization to go lower. The FAA said it would review each operator’s safety plan before issuing permission.

The move came after three deadly crashes in 2019, including one that killed a pilot and six passengers on the Na Pali Coast. The NTSB blamed the crash on the pilot’s decision to continue flying in bad weather.

Three people died when a tour helicopter crashed in a Honolulu suburb, and 11 were killed when their skydiving plane went down after takeoff on Oahu’s North Shore. Federal investigators blamed that crash on the pilot’s aggressive takeoff.

Another helicopter crashed into a remote Big Island lava field during a sunset tour in June 2022, injuring the six people on board.

Ladd Sanger, a Texas-based aviation attorney and helicopter pilot, has handled air tour crash litigation in Hawaii and has flown a helicopter over Kauai.

The latest crash shows it’s not prudent to be flying single-engine helicopters over Hawaii, including off Kauai’s rugged coastline, he said.

“If there is an engine problem on Kauai, it is very likely going to be a terrible outcome,” he said. “It is a really rough island, and there are so few places to land a helicopter.”

A Robinson R44 is also more susceptible to Hawaii’s often-changing climates, he said.

“Kauai is gorgeous, and there is no way to see the beauty of Kauai but from a helicopter,” he said. “But it needs to be the right helicopter.”

Not many Hawaii tour companies operate twin-engine turbine helicopters because they’re more expensive, Sanger said.

“Our hearts go out to the families and friends of those affected,” David Smith, president and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company, said in a statement. “Safety is our highest priority, and we are cooperating fully with all investigating authorities to understand the circumstances surrounding this event.”

Robinson helicopters, including the R44 model, “have a proven track record of safe operation across diverse and challenging environments, from the mountainous terrain of Switzerland to the tropical climate of Hawaii,” the company said. “Robinson helicopters have been operating safely in Hawaii since the 1980s, with some operators flying up to 16,000 flight hours a year without incident.”

While the federal government generally controls air safety measures, Hawaii lawmakers have tried to indirectly make helicopter tours safer, said state Rep. Nadine Nakamura, whose Kauai district includes the Na Pali Coast.

But a bill last session attempting to increase aircraft liability insurance didn’t make it to the governor’s desk, she said.

She noted that past crashes have been due to a variety of issues including weather and mechanical problems.

“And that’s what visitors have to weigh — that there have been crashes in the past,” she said. “People have to balance their desire to see remote and exotic places, from a vantage point that is quite stunning, to the risks involved.”

Thiessen reported from Anchorage, Alaska.

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1 dead, 2 missing after tour helicopter crashes off Hawaiian coast

Authorities on the Hawaiian island of Kauai resumed search operations on Friday after a tour helicopter crashed off the northern coast of the island, leaving at least one person dead and two others missing.

The Kauai Police Department first received a report from hikers that a helicopter crashed about a quarter mile offshore along the Na Pali Coast on Thursday at approximately 1:20 p.m., local time, according to the County of Kauai .

At 2:25 p.m. one person was found and confirmed dead, while the other two people remained missing, county officials said. Their names have not been released.

Multiple agencies have responded to the incident, including the U.S. Coast Guard, the Ocean Safety Bureau and personnel with the island's fire department, emergency management agency and police department, the county government said.

Search and rescue operations, led by Kauai officials, were paused at sundown and were expected to resume at "first light on Friday," the county said in a statement. Meanwhile, crews with the U.S. Coast Guard searched through Thursday evening.

The helicopter was part of Ali‘i Kaua‘i Air Tours and Charters, which provides private helicopter tours of the island, taking riders over the Waimea Canyon, the rugged Na Pali Coast and dozens of cascading waterfalls, its website says .

Sarah Sulick, a spokesperson for the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), said the agency is investigating the crash but did not provide any information about the incident.

NTSB investigations focus on the pilot, the aircraft and the operating environment, Sulick said, adding that witness statements, recordings of air traffic control communications, maintenance records and surveillance videos would all be gathered and examined during the investigation.

On Thursday, officials in Kauai offered their condolences and prayers to the families of the victims.

"We are incredibly sad to hear of the life tragically lost today, and the two other individuals who are still missing,” said Kauai County Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami in a statement. “While we do not know all the details surrounding the incident at this time, we do know that our first responders are doing everything they can in this emergency operation. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of all involved.”

Kauai Police Chief Todd Raybuck said the multi-agency response remains focused on search and rescue.

"Our hearts go out to the families impacted by this tragedy," Raybuck said. "We will continue working with our partners to locate the missing individuals and provide support during this difficult time."