Private Scenic Kona Coast Doors On & Off Flights - Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours

Embark on an unforgettable Kona Helicopter tour and immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of Hawaii Island. Choose your preferred route and soar along the captivating south or north coastline. Departing from Kona Airport, your adventure will take you southbound, passing by iconic landmarks such as Honokohau Bay, Kona Town, and Keauhou Bay, before reaching the renowned town of Captain Cook. As you glide above, marvel at the world-famous Kealakekua Bay and catch a glimpse of Captain Cook's monument. Alternatively, if you opt for the northbound journey, prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning Kua Bay, Kiholo Bay, and Anaeho’omalu Bay. Keep your eyes peeled during the whale watching season from December to March, as you might be fortunate enough to witness majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat, traversing the vast blue ocean. Experience an adventure like no other and create memories that will last a lifetime.

---

Why do travelers choose this tour?

• Southbound or Northbound - You will see Big Island’s most iconic panorama in just 30 minutes, covering historic landmarks from either the north or south side of the island.
• Guaranteed window seats - With a maximum of 3 passengers, this VIP private tour gives you unbeatable views of the coastline from your seat.
• Good value - You can choose the doors-off flight option at no extra cost for a completely thrilling al fresco experience up in the clouds.
• With commentary - Your very own pilot, who is also local expert, will answer any questions you might have about Big Island’s historical and cultural significance.
• Multiple departure times - Choose when you want to soar above the coastline between 9:30AM to 5:30PM. Each time of the day paints a different visual feast for your eyes.
• Whale watching season - See whales from a whole new perspective while you’re up in the clouds between December to March.
• Safe adventure - Operating since 2006, Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours works with trained and experienced pilots who are a team of flight instructors and EMS pilots. They perform safety checks and briefing each time before departure.

What is the difference between the packages?

Both options offer an exceptional viewing experience, as each window seat has wide windows extending from the top of your head to your waist. The choice to fly with or without doors depends on your priorities and comfort level.

Doors-ON Flight Experience or Southbound?

• Aircraft: R44
• Duration: 30 minutes
• Maximum of 3 passengers
• Guaranteed window seats
• Commentary by an experienced pilot
• Accommodates children ages 7 years old and above
• In a closed aircraft, you are shielded from wind exposure and you will be able to enjoy the music and narration clearly. It offers a more serene and captivating experience as you take in the breathtaking scenery through the large windows.

Doors-OFF Flight Experience or Northbound?

• Aircraft: R44
• Duration: 30 minutes
• Maximum of 3 passengers
• Guaranteed window seats
• Commentary by an experienced pilot
• Accommodates children ages 12 years old and above
• Best for passengers looking for the perfect photo opportunities
• The doors-off flight is a more adventurous experience and you will not get the glare from the windows in your pictures. The door-to-ceiling openings allow you to look straight down to the ocean and mountains. Because the helicopter is open to the elements, you will be exposed to wind and cooler temperatures.

Local expert tips

• Please check in 40 minutes prior to your flight time. Each passenger’s exact weight includes shoes, all clothing, and personal belongings including camera equipment and purses.
• What to wear: On a doors-on flight, please wear dark outer layers to minimize reflection in the windows when you take photos. For doors-off flights, please wear a windproof jacket or any warm outer layer that has zippers. Avoid wind-susceptible clothing such as dresses and hooded items. In the winter, please wear long pants. Eyeglasses are permissible on the flight, and earrings must be taken off, so you can wear headsets comfortably.
• Best time of the day to fly: Typically, the morning conditions are more favorable than in the afternoon for the best viewing experience.
• Best time to visit: Spring and summer offer the best climate for an aerial tour as Hawaii has plenty of sunshine at this time.
• This tour accommodates last-minute bookings, perfect for those looking to squeeze in an aerial sightseeing experience just before leaving Big Island.
• Take your medicine at least 1 hour before the flight if you’re prone to motion sickness.

Aircraft information

R44 is a 4-seated helicopter with a large curved tail that minimizes flyover noise, giving unobstructed views for passengers, either doors-off or doors-on. The pilots are skillful in selecting a flight path that affords passengers on both sides of the aircraft the same amazing views.

Seating arrangement

Big Island flights are flown in a Robinson helicopter, either doors-on or doors-off. Children age 7 to 11 years old need to sit next to a closed door, while kids who are 12 years or older may sit next to an open door.

For your safety, the tour does not permit lap seating. Each passenger, including your child, must be secured with a regular-sized seatbelt in his or her individual seat.

Guaranteed window seats! The pilots are skillful in selecting a flight path that affords passengers on both sides of the aircraft the same amazing views.

Restrictions

• Total weight per person cannot exceed 275lbs and total weight group cannot exceed 650lbs. All passengers plus carry-on items will be weighed at check-in.
• You may bring your personal belongings on the aircraft as long as they are lightweight and can be stored under the seat.
• For doors-off flights, cameras and all other gadgets must be secured to a wrist strap or neck strap. Cell phones must be set to airplane mode.

How to get there?

The tour departs from Kona International Airport, just a few minutes away from Uu St. and Kupipi St. towards Keahole Rd. along Queen Kaahumanu Hwy. There are parking spots in the area but are often limited, so please arrive early.