Q & A
On this page, you can find some Frequently Asked Questions with Answers about Helicopter Tours, Day Trips, Charters, and Multi-Day Excursions with Flying M Air.
Q: Is a helicopter ride like a roller coaster ride?
A: Not at all. Helicopter rides are surprisingly smooth — smoother than most airplane rides. Windy or hot conditions could cause light turbulence; your pilot will warn you in advance if this may be the case on the day of your flight. Flying M Air will not fly in excessively windy conditions.
Q: Is it loud?
A: The helicopter can be loud, but each passenger wears a headset that significantly cuts down the noise. The headset also works with a voice-activated intercom system, so each passenger can communicate with the others and the pilot during the flight.
Q: What happens if I get scared or sick?
A: Just tell the pilot what the problem is and she’ll return you to the airport or landing zone. Keep in mind that only two passengers have ever gotten sick on a Flying M Air tour — and they were both teenagers!
Q: What’s the minimum age for a flight?
A: Although we prefer taking children aged 8 and up, we will take younger children if they are accompanied by a parent.
Q: What’s the maximum passenger weight?
A: The maximum per-seat weight limit is 275 lbs.
Q: Can I take pictures during the flight?
A: Please do! Our helicopter offers excellent views out of all windows.
Q: How many passengers can you take together?
A: We can take up to 3 passengers. Weight limits apply. If your party includes people over 200 lbs, let us know when making reservations.
Q: What are your hours of operation?
A: Flying M Air currently offers tours and charters by appointment only. Call us to make a reservation. If you see us operating at Wickenburg Airport, however, you may be able to get a flight without reservations.
Q: How much advance notice do you need to reserve a flight?
A: We must have at least an hour’s notice for any helicopter flight. We prefer 24-48 hours notice.
Q: What kind of helicopter do you fly?
A: Flying M Air operates a 2005 Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter. Built in Torrance, CA, these helicopters have an excellent record of safety and reliability. You can learn more about Robinson helicopters at their Web site, www.robinsonheli.com.
Q: How long has your pilot been flying?
A: Pilot Maria Langer has been flying since 1998 and has logged well over 1,500 hours of flight time in helicopters, primarily in Wickenburg and at the Grand Canyon.
Q: I’d like to go for a flight over an area that isn’t included in any of your tours. Can you take me?
A: We offer custom charters. Pricing is by the hour for up to three passengers and time minimums apply. Consult our Charter Rates page for pricing.
Q: Can you take me to Sedona or the Grand Canyon?
A: Yes. Flying M Air is an FAA Part 135 certificated helicopter operator. This means we can take passengers virtually anywhere they want to go. (We cannot, however, over-fly the Grand Canyon, as that is heavily restricted airspace.) Call us for more information.
Q: Do you sell gift certificates?
A: Yes, we sell gift certificates for all of our standard tours, as well as for custom charters of at least 1/2 hour. Regular pricing applies.
Q: I’m having a party and would like to offer my guests helicopter rides. Can you do rides from my property?
A: In general, the answer is yes, but there are exceptions depending on the location and suitability of your property. Give us a call with details and we’ll do our best to meet your needs.
Q: I want an aerial photo of my home. Can you do that?
A: We no longer have a photographer on staff so we cannot offer aerial photography services.
Q: Can you take me up so I can take aerial photos of my home or business?
A: Yes. Consult our Charter Rates page for pricing.
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