First time in a helicopter: a passenger guide

Key points

• Helicopters are noisy outside and inside, but headsets or ear defenders, usually provided, make conversation easy.
• The ride is normally smooth. Warm days and low flying can bring some bumps.
• Motion sickness is uncommon. Tell the pilot beforehand if you tend to feel unwell.
• Dress for a short walk across open ground: layers, flat shoes and nothing loose.
• Follow the crew's instructions when approaching and leaving the aircraft.

How noisy is a helicopter?

Loud enough that you want protection. The engines and rotors produce a lot of sound, and the cabin of a charter helicopter is much quieter than standing beside one, but still noisy without a headset. Headsets or ear defenders are usually provided and make talking and listening easy, because they have a built-in microphone for the cabin.

Put the headset on as shown by the crew, adjust it so it sits snugly and test it before you take off. Children and people with sensitive hearing should wear one throughout. If you wear glasses or earrings, the crew can help with a comfortable fit.

Will I feel sick?

Most people do not. A helicopter flying at cruise in calm air feels smooth, a little like a car on a good road. On hot days the air can be bumpy near the ground, and strong winds add turbulence. If you tend to get car-sick or sea-sick, say so beforehand, and the pilot can adjust the profile, for example by flying a little higher. Fix your eyes on the horizon and keep the vents open.

Avoid a heavy meal just before flying, and carry any medication your doctor has recommended. We cannot give medical advice, and sensitive passengers should consult their own doctor. If you feel unwell in flight, tell the pilot; they will help.

What should I wear?

• Layers. Cabins vary in temperature, and the walk to the aircraft can be cold.
• Flat, closed shoes. Heels are awkward on a lawn or step and uncomfortable in the cabin.
• Nothing loose. Scarves, hats and loose paperwork can blow about in rotor wash. Keep them in a bag.
• Sunglasses. The view can be bright on a clear day.
• Soft bags. They fit the hold better than hard cases.

If you are going to an event or a meeting, dress for it and bring any changes in a bag. A coat is useful if the weather at the destination differs. The article on passenger weight and luggage explains how to pack.

What if I am nervous?

Many first-time passengers are. Tell the pilot, who will explain what is happening and adjust the briefing. Knowing what to expect helps: the pilot's checks, the start-up, the lift and the way the helicopter moves are all normal. Sit comfortably, breathe, look out of the window and let the crew handle the flying.

Helicopters operated for charter are flown by professional, type-rated pilots under a UK CAA or EASA approved Air Operator's Certificate, and every helicopter in our fleet has two engines. See twin-engine helicopter safety for what that means.

Many other first-time questions are answered in our helicopter charter questions answered guide.

How do I approach and board the helicopter?

Wait for the crew to escort you. Approach from the front, where the pilot can see you, and never walk toward the tail. Keep hats and loose items secure, and follow instructions about doors and seat belts. The crew will brief you on the exits and what to do in an emergency. A step helps with entry, and the crew assist anyone who needs it. For more on access, see helicopter accessibility and boarding.

What do first-timers say afterwards?

For a first time in a helicopter, the common reaction is surprise at how ordinary it feels. People expect drama and find a smooth, quiet-enough ride, a good view and a landing so gentle they barely notice it. The part they remember is the speed of the journey: a trip that would have taken a morning on the road is over before they have finished a conversation.

The other common remark is how much easier the ground side is than they feared. There is no queue, a short briefing and a short walk, then the flight. If you are still nervous, tell the crew, bring someone you trust and sit where you can see out. And remember that you can ask to stop the briefing at any point to ask a question.

What should I do with my phone and camera?

Follow the crew's instructions about phones, and keep them secure in a pocket or bag when boarding and leaving the aircraft. In flight you can usually take photographs through the windows, but hold your phone firmly and keep it away from the door and anything that moves. Do not lean out or open windows. Ask the pilot if you want a particular view, and ask before using a flash or a tripod. Pack a charger and headphones if you plan to work, and remember that most flights are short. For a calmer journey, read weather and helicopter charter so you know what to expect from the day.

What is the flight like?

Once airborne, you will see the ground from a lower, slower perspective than an airliner. The helicopter flies by sight and the pilot talks to air traffic services where needed. You can chat, make notes or look out. The landing is gentle: the helicopter slows, hovers and settles, and the crew tell you when to leave.

For the full run-through of the day, read what happens on the day of a helicopter charter. When you are ready, request a quote and tell us if anyone in the party is nervous or needs help.