That is of course with years passing before a major or minor accident happens again. Are helicopter tours safe in Hawaii on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the Big Island.. well I can say they certainly are. It is the only company on Kauai permitted to land at a waterfall during a helicopter tour, and that is the best helicopter tour on Kauai. Blue Hawaiian do not. Plus he's a real daredevil kind of guy so she was surprised at his reaction -. With their helicopters distinctive windows, Islands tours provide passengers with the best views, in an AStars quiet and safe, climate-controlled environment. The safety, comfort, and satisfaction of each customer are the main concerns. What great fun this tour is! That's not luck - it's the combined commitment of professional pilots and top Kauai Helicopter Safety Records. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-86525511', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');airline you are flying on to Hawaii ? Includes the Grand Skies Island Tour PLUS landing at the falls. Of course we don't check the safety record of flights to Hawaii. more. Pilot Adam and the safety crew are great. - Robert N, Incredible experience, excellent pilot Adam, friendly staff and a must do with doors off for unobstructed photos & video. - Huey, The most spectacular experience in Kauai. We had a great time! Perhaps a silly question, but everyone says to check safety records of the helicopter companies you are considering, but where does one go to view these records? Maui themselves had two helicopter crashes - up to nine to ten years ago - but no one onboard survived. The NTSB says the engine-to-transmission drive shaft failed in flight due to improper maintenance. And as its flown more often for purposes outside helicopter tours, there's an increase in odds of an accident. ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A TOUR THAT PROVIDES AN EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE NOT OFFERED BY ANY OTHER HELICOPTER TOUR? We saw parts of the Garden Island you can only see by air. Kauai is the deadliest place in Hawaii for fatal helicopter crashes nearly all of which are flights operated by tour companies with a total of 26 people killed since Jan. 1, 2000. Harsh I know because without that Oahu is quite clean in terms of past accidents. driving distance from Poipu to North Shore, The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas. A family of four from Canada was on board. Bonnie and Curt Lofstedt (owners of Island Helicopters) employ a staff of 18 (on average), some of which have been with them for over 30 years! This is a must do. In April, a Robinson R-44 went down in Kailua , killing the pilot and his two After five and a half years of navigating the Kauai Planning Departments permitting process, numerous environmental impact studies, and receiving sole permission from the Robinsons, Island Helicopters was approved to offer the ONLY waterfall landing on Kauai, the Jurassic Falls Landing Adventure. I met a young Hawaiian woman a couple of years ago who said very politely that the "juests are very brave, we locals would never fly in those helicopters". Blue Hawaiian definitely! I can unsubscribe any time using the unsubscribe link at the end of all emails. As you flight is prepared, we can answer any questions you may have while you relax in our comfortable terminal. Euphoria awaits. NTSB.gov will have more up to date accident reports - the only one I've heard about on (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-86549356', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Kauai. Where can I find more info about which companies to avoid, and what the safety records are? They have the best record for safety in the industry. In February 2016, onlookers watched in horror as a Bell 206B plummeted out of the sky and into the water at Pearl Harbor near the Arizona Memorial. But there are certainly other things you can ask such as the experience of your pilot for starters. Should I split my stay between 2 locations on Kauai? How has Kauai been affected by the floods? Helicopter crashes can result in death, but the statistics show you can walk away even if seriously hurt or with minor injuries. A camera hooked up to one of Hope this helps. What off the beaten path activities can I do? Book a tour today and see kauai the way nature intended soaring above, gliding on air. All rights reserved. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-86533181', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');airline flights. Here is one link that gives some info. And where there was fatalities, it usually involves a helicopter crash that is more serious. it's not a silly question. Despite that, helicopter safety is a high standard in Hawaii so the helicopter type in use then, continues to be used today. We are the only air tour company on Kauai that operates a twin-engine aircraft. At Island Helicopters, we guarantee the best pricing. Copyright 2023 Air Kauai Helicopter Tours. Those crashes were responsible for eight fatalities. Do Kauai right see it with island helicopters. WAIALEALES CRATER. Do, you check the safety record of the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion. I was a little hesitant to do it but so glad we did I will never forget it. Who else appears to be involved in a Hawaii crash over the last ten years is Airbus with their AS series helicopters. This is a must do to truly see and experience Kauai. We are proud of our safety record. That is where I am unable to get the reports of the accident or the investigation is still ongoing. Island Helicopters fleet of six-passenger, Airbus (formerly Eurocopter) AStar helicopters boast paramount viewing opportunities with custom ceiling-to-floor windows. All rights reserved. Just did a helicopter tour in April with Jack Harter. If we're referring to helicopter tours only, over the last decade there have been eight helicopter crashes in Hawaii. Kauai is home to so many romantic restaurants with delicious menu items and beautiful views. The following Hawaii helicopter crash statistics are provided by NSTB (National Transportation Safety Board). We offer special rates for direct bookings. The incident on Kauai is the second fatal helicopter crash in the islands this year. To blame for this most is human error where the pilot smashed into a hill side or decided to pull a manoeuvre that resulted in a crash. Blue Hawaiian was VERY professional and makes you feel very comfortable. Since 1980, Island Helicopters provides safe, exhilarating experiences designed for adventure-seekers and families alike. The incident on Kauai is the second fatal helicopter crash in the islands this year. Jack Harter Helicopters uses excellent noise reduction headphones. BOOK AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE WITH THE ONES YOU LOVE (AND NO ONE ELSE). if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'helodays_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_4',118,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-helodays_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');No island is immune from accidents involving helicopter tours but Oahu has jumped the list, followed by kauai/Maui with the Big Island having the one more recent accident. Hands down my favorite experience in Kauai, and Kauai was magical--so that's saying a lot! So much so that your words are irresponsible and may cause people to miss out on a very nice experience. After registering, I can manage my newsletter subscriptions by visiting my Profile Settings page. What started as a flight training school for helicopter pilots 22 years ago has blossomed into one of the more exclusive tour companies. At the same time an FAA officer, on vacation in our concierge room joined in on the conversation and said that only a couple of years before, the FAA came in an grounded every operator for poorly maintained maintaince records. I am not saying to not book with an operator who fly the R44, as the helicopter is still a reliable machine. We had a group of 6 ranging from late 60s to teens. They own a vacation home on the BI that you need a helicopter or all day trek on foot to reach. Both Island Helicopters and all of the pilots are FAA Certified Part 135. WebThe best overall value and most flexibility in scheduling is found with Air Kauai. The Air Kauai Experience begins long before you board a helicopter. I don't have a link right now, but you can dig into the FAA site. Curt personally selects and trains every one of its exceptional pilots, all of whom have excellent safety records and thousands of hours of flying experience. Well, all it took was that one crash and there goes that standing. Staff was so friendly and helpful and the pilot Nick was the real star of the show. WALK THE GROUNDS OF THE MAGNIFICENT SETTING OF JURASSIC PARK WITH EXCLUSIVE ACCESS FROM ISLAND HELICOPTERS. Privacy Statement - After setting down near the base of the 400-foot falls, your pilot will guide you along a jungle path adjacent to a stream to the bottom of the spectacular falls. Book an unforgettable experience with the ones you love (and no one else). Because of this, many people may be afraid to take a helicopter tour. Statistics show that where an accident can occur, passengers can still walk away. They were right. I think your question is a fair one and shouldn't be dismissed. I'm not sure how current this is.. https://www.govisithawaii.com/2007/07/26/6-tips-for-choosing-a-hawaii-helicopter-tour/. How can I take a shelter dog on a field trip? All six passengers ended up suing Blue Hawaiian Helicopters for negligence. You have to see the island like this. We would be happy to answer any questions and put your mind at ease! The latest happened Thursday evening, when a tour helicopter with seven people onboard crashed on its way back to Lihue. The dangers of weather changes, up drafts and down drafts make the flights inherently dangerous. In that incident the co-pilot passenger was forced to take controls which probably saved all those onboard. It was a blast! After setting down near the base of the 400-foot falls, your pilot will guide you along a jungle path adjacent to a stream to the bottom of the spectacular falls. Along with our impeccable safety record, we take pride in making each tour a spectacular, personalized experience. Curt and Bonnie have kept the company small by choice, but the standards are always the highest. What are some free things to do on Kauai? turttwig, you're way, way off the mark. So much so that your words are irresponsible and may cause people to miss out on a very nice experience. Wh All incidents are reported there. Do not base your helicopter tour on which island has the best record, because as you can see, an accident can occur anywhere. We are Kauai's only permitted company to land at a waterfall during a helicopter tour. We will definitely be back! - Kim N, Wow! Its also worth noting helicopter tourism in Hawaii has come a long way over the last ten years, so crashes are less frequent, despite recent incidents. Pricing of the Jurassic Falls Landing Adventure includes landing fees and the costs to obtain regular environmental studies. Hawaiis air-tour leader for 35 years, and the only helicopter tour company that serves the entire state, Only Blue Hawaiian has an approved and accepted voluntary FAA Safety Management System (SMS), just like all major airlines, along with numerous other industry-leading safety programs and practices. If they crashed as often as helicopters i sure as heck would be selective in my airline choice. We have over 32 years of flying experience in the Hawaiian Island. The views are spectacular and youll see things you can only see from the air - Sightsee427772, Open door helicopter tour was amazing !! The pilot, Nick, was excellent. If you only do one thing in Kauai, make it this! Tried and True Flights With over 25 years of experience and a perfect safety record, they use state of the art helicopters, employ the best pilots (many of whom are You won't be the only one doing so. You would be missing out on most of the island if you didnt do this tour. They also have the best safety record in all of Hawaii. For more information about your privacy and protection, please review our full. Some have flying over Kauai for years, some might be fairly new at it. If I remember correctly the stats sure seemed to be saying that the frequency, per number of flights, was greater with tourist helicopter tours whether in Hawaii or in the Grand Canyon or elsewhere. HONOLULU (AP) The National Transportation Safety Board released an research document Wednesday on a They fly six-passenger A-star helicopters (the industry standard in Hawaii) and they fly with doors on and doors off configurations. Since 1980, Island Helicopters has specialized in providing personalized tours for the independent traveler, families, and groups of all sizes. All of Island Helicopters highly skilled professional pilots have thousands of hours and numerous years of flying experience. Why post such blatant lies and attempt to create unwarranted fear? Curt and Bonnie Lofstedt, owners and operators of Island Helicopters Kauai, Inc., are long-time island residents with a home in the town of Kalaheo. Book online to book Kaui's best Helicopter Tours! Bonnie would frequently hike the Na Pali Coast or Waimea Canyon with her campers, and at the end of the day, a chartered helicopter (Curt) would land and fly Bonnie and the campers back to camp. Curt and Bonnie have kept their company small by choice, but their standards are always the highest. We might be feeling a little smug here because there hasn't been a crash in some time now. But when they happen that's when we're singing a differe The most dangerous thing about flying is driving to the airport. Safety records are very good as to circle island tours on Kauai, and if a helo is Island Helicopters owners Curt and Bonnie Lofstedt employ a staff of 18 (on average), some of whom have been with the company for over 30 years! ARE YOU LOOKING FOR THE MOST AFFORDABLE OPTION POSSIBLE? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-86535180', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car to get to the landing pad? If you are looking to treat your valentine to a special dinner this year, check out some of th Winter season is here! i know the last helicopter crash in hawaii was sometime in july 2000. it was a blue hawaiian crash in maui with all 7 passengers killed. Another Robinson R-44 went down in October 2018 when the pilot passed out twice. These are all fair questions. Of the 17 previous crashes, meanwhile, eight happened on Oahu, five on the Big Island and two each on Kauai and Molokai, the records show. As the helicopter approached the nearly 400-foot waterfall, the location director screamed, Thats it; its PERFECT!. Case says thats a distraction. Take a second to visit our tours page or call us directly at 808.246.4666 and let our dispatchers help you pick the perfect flight for you. Feel the tropical mist, take pictures and learn the fascinating history of this remote area including native plants, geologic formations and agricultural history. List of properly permitted vacation rentals, not condos - 8/15/2017, Weather Questions start here Pls/Best Time of Year to Visit Kauai, How to make reservations at Haena State Park / Ke'e Beach. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. No Hawaiian island is without its accidents involving helicopter tours as it can happen anywhere, with Hawaii being no different to anywhere else on earth. Over 90% of the State of Hawaii is accessible only by She always chooses the later option. A day at the beach (look out for sharks and coconuts and dont forget the sunscreen!). turttwig, you're way, way off the mark. Our pilot was the best!! Notice how Oahu is the epicentre of Hawaii helicopter crashes followed by Maui who are tied with Kauai - which happen to be the busiest of the four major islands. Our highly skilled pilots have many years of experience and all have a perfect safety record. Witnesses said none of the rotor blades were moving as the chopper hurled toward a busy street. Companies no longer doing tours are not included. to have 100% safety record. Everyone made us feel like family. For a similar price, other companies will only fly high above Jurassic Falls. just about anything else that you can think of, after all, what is safer than a perfect safety record. The ride was so smooth and the music was great! The new Times Square lacks excitement, flavor. Helicopter safety is an ongoing improvement in Hawaii as shown with little accidents involving engine failure. Seats up to 6 passengers (subject to weight limitations). I wish the pilot would have slowed down around the waterfalls. Review of: Doors Off Air Kauai Helicopter Tour What a fabulous experience from start to finish! We were also leary, but we checked this company out and it was wonderful. Cookie Policy - We might be feeling a little smug here because there hasn't been a crash in some time now. Next up its Kauai with the two accidents with one of them resulting in all those on board losing there lives. Very professional, Awesome Perspective of the island. And our pilot Adam was super! - Alessandra Spallarossa. . I highly recommend if doing a helicopter tour the doors off is the way to go. WebAll of Islands pilots and employees reside on Kauai with their families. WebDO KAUAI RIGHT SEE IT WITH ISLAND HELICOPTERS. Thank you!, Ive done helicopter rides all over the US (including in Kauai with a different company) and this was the best one ever. I can't tell you which ones to avoid but I can tell you that Blue Hawaiian is top notch. Something to consider is that maintaining helicopters in the tropics is very expensive and time consuming. WebWe have been providing deluxe helicopter tours from the Lihue Airport longer than any company in Hawaii, over 42 years. Kauai has more helicopter tour operators on the island along with more helicopter tours departing each day - so it make sense in terms of an accident happening on Kauai. * BOOK ONLINE NOW Call 808-246-4666 for more details, or book online now! I would recommend a helicopter ride to anybody since you can't see most of Kauai without it. WOULD YOU RATHER STAY IN THE AIR FOR THE ENTIRE TOUR OR LAND IN THE JUNGLE TO EXPLORE? Personally I would suggest Jack Harter ( Kauai) with 'doors off' though. Scheduling is found with air Kauai experience begins long before you board a helicopter tour out some of th season. Tours provide passengers with the ones you LOVE ( and no one onboard survived weball Islands. 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