It’s not every day that we get to enjoy a helicopter tour over the city. Having the opportunity to fly in a helicopter is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many people. If you’ve never taken a helicopter ride, then you’re most likely excited and anxious to do so.
The best way to prepare for your first helicopter flight is to know what to expect. When you know what to expect, you can ease some of that anxiety you have and heighten your excitement. To better prepare, continue reading below.
Here’s everything you can expect from your first helicopter ride!
You’ll Need the Right Clothing
You can expect the flight to be windy and for that reason, it’s a good idea to wear the right type of clothing. You want to wear clothing that’s more fitting than loose. Clothing that’s too loose can be affected by the wind.
Just imagine trying to enjoy all those amazing views while your shirt keeps flying about. At the same time, you want to wear clothing that’s comfortable as well. It’s all about finding that balance.
It’s also a good idea to layer your clothing. Your layers will give you the ability to control your own temperature while on the helicopter. The shoes you wear need to provide you with safety.
Sneakers with a good grip are ideal. A pair of jeans to complete the outfit is perfect. Jeans will keep you warm while on the flight.
You’ll Be Given Safety Instructions
All riders should be aware of helicopter safety protocols before boarding. This is true for both experienced riders and first-timer riders. When the pilot gives you safety instructions, make sure you listen carefully.
In case of an emergency, you’ll want to know exactly what to do. These pilots fly helicopters for a living and know how to do so safely. They also know how to keep all of the passengers safe, so don’t treat their safety instructions as something you can blow off.
If needed, don’t hesitate to ask a few questions either. Having all your questions answered will make the trip more enjoyable for you because you can relax while flying.
There Will Be Safety Equipment
There will be safety equipment on the helicopter, and it’s a good idea to know exactly where on the helicopter these items are located. There should be a first aid kit, life jackets, and other safety supplies. Ask the pilot to show you where these items are if you’re unsure.
Another safety feature about riding in a helicopter is the seating arrangements. You’ll be assigned a seat to help balance the helicopter. If you want a specific seat, such as a middle seat to avoid being directly near the sides, then be sure to discuss this with the pilot ahead of time.
You may or may not be able to sit in the middle depending on how the weight of the other passengers balances the helicopter.
You’ll Need to Approach and Exit Correctly
Approaching and exiting the helicopter correctly is crucial. Listen to the instructions given to you by the pilot carefully. When the rotors of the helicopter are still in motion, approaching and exiting correctly are even more important.
You want to make sure all of your personal items are secured well. This will prevent them from blowing away. The same is true for while on the helicopter also.
If for any reason a personal item was to be blown away, then don’t try to chase it. Let the pilot know and a trained professional will retrieve it for you.
Expect Some Turbulence During Take-Off and Landing
Even the best helicopter tours will go through some turbulence during take-off and landing. This is normal. The last thing anyone wants is to hop onto a helicopter not expecting any turbulence and then feeling frightened once experiencing it.
Prepare for turbulence during these times. Once in the air and at the right altitude, the ride should be smooth for the most part. You don’t need to worry much about a bumpy ride and extreme motion sickness.
Helicopter rides are smooth and enjoyable the majority of the time. If you do happen to get motion sick easily, then you can choose to take motion sickness medication before the flight.
You Might Overcome a Fear and Find a New Love
Here’s one you might not have expected: overcoming a fear. If you have a fear of heights or a fear of flying, then your helicopter experience might be the medicine you need to reduce these fears.
Choose a reliable helicopter tour company by doing your research. Knowing you’re in good hands is one of the best ways to put your mind at ease and do the unthinkable! To ease your mind, even more, don’t be afraid to do some extra research not only on the company but on helicopters as well.
Read into all of the different safety features and types of turbulence to expect.
Your First Helicopter Tour Should Be a Wonderful Experience
Your very first helicopter tour should be an experience of a lifetime that you never want to forget. If you know what to expect, then you’ll know how to prepare. When you come prepared, you come with a mind at ease and an open heart.
Keep the information listed above in mind when booking your first tour.
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Rachel Dixon works on Business, travel and features blogs at Daily Mid Time and Zobuz. She has passionate for travelling and cooking. Spending time with family as well as on internet to enhance her capabilities for well orientated content creation and blog writing.
