Kauai Air Tours
Choose Your Kauai Air Tour
Doors Off Helicopter
Airplane Tours
Which Flight Works For You?
Doors Off | Doors On | Airplane Tours
Doors Off
Experience Kauai through an open doorway, with unobstructed views and no window glass between your camera and the scenery. Expect wind and greater exposure to the elements. Review clothing requirements, loose-item rules, and passenger restrictions before booking
Doors On Helicopter
Enjoy aerial views from an enclosed cabin, with protection from wind and the elements. This option may appeal to travelers who prefer a more sheltered flight experience. Seating arrangements are four in he back two uofront with pilot, window-seat availability vary by aircraft and tour.
Airplane Tours
Explore Kauai aboard a sightseeing fixed-wing airplane, with views of the Na Pali coastline, Waimea Canyon and other Kauai highlights. Compare private and shared flights, seating arrangements, and window-seat availability to find the right experience for your group.
FAQ’S
Kauai Air Tours: Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose a helicopter or an airplane tour?
We usually start by asking what matters most to you: the flight experience, your views, your budget, or having the aircraft just for your group.
Helicopters give you the choice of doors on or doors off, and some tours include a landing. Airplanes are worth comparing if you’re looking for a scenic flight with window seating or a private experience. Tell us a little about your group, and we’ll help you narrow it down.
What is the difference between the Cessna and the AirVan?
The Cessna is a private tour for 2, sometimes 3, passengers. They fly the same tour route at the same speed, the difference is the privacy. If you want to have the pilot to yourselves and you want to make sure one of you is in the co-pilot seat, then the Cessna is for you. It’s cozy, and you really fit best if you are under 220 pounds.
The AirVan is our larger plane, it carries four to six passengers per flight. It a bit more spacious and comfortable in some ways, and the weight limit is much higher. The AirVan has large bubble windows so you can see all around and down a bit better. And sometimes it’s fun to be with another couple or party of three and enjoy the tour with them as well. Our pilots do a great job of including everyone into the conversation and making sure everyone has a great view.
- The Cessna is a private tour for 2, sometimes 3, passengers. They fly the same tour route at the same speed, the difference is the privacy. If you want to have the pilot to yourselves and you want to make sure one of you is in the co-pilot seat, then the Cessna is for you. It’s cozy, and you really fit best if you are under 220 pounds.
The AirVan is our larger plane, it carries four to six passengers per flight. It a bit more spacious and comfortable in some ways, and the weight limit is much higher. The AirVan has large bubble windows so you can see all around and down a bit better. And sometimes it’s fun to be with another couple or party of three and enjoy the tour with them as well. Our pilots do a great job of including everyone into the conversation and making sure everyone has a great view.
Should I fly with the helicopter doors on or off?
If an open-air adventure sounds exciting, a doors-off flight may be your pick. There’s no window glass between you and the scenery, but you’ll feel the wind and cooler air.
If you’d rather settle into an enclosed cabin, choose doors on. You’ll still enjoy the scenery with protection from the wind. You don’t need to choose doors off to have a memorable flight.
Will everyone get a window seat?
This is one of the first things we recommend checking. Some aircraft have a window for every passenger; others have interior seats.
Pilots and operators assign seating based on weight and balance, so a requested seat may not be guaranteed. If a window seat is important to you, let us know before you book.
Which flight is best for taking pictures?
Doors-off flights appeal to photographers because there’s no window reflection. The tradeoff is wind and stricter rules about what you can bring.
You can also take beautiful photos through aircraft windows. Wearing dark clothing helps reduce reflections. Check the camera and phone requirements for your flight before packing your gear.
perating dates, and drive from your accommodations. Follow the check-in address on your confirmation, which may differ from the boarding location.
What will we see?
Depending on your tour and the weather, your flight may take in the Nā Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, waterfalls, and valleys tucked into Kauai’s mountain interior.
Keep a little flexibility in your expectations. Clouds and visibility help determine where the pilot can fly, so a specific landmark is never guaranteed.
How long is the flight?
Many Kauai sightseeing flights are approximately 45–65 minutes. Tours with a landing or another added experience may take longer.
Check your tour’s flight time, and allow extra time for check-in and the safety briefing. We recommend leaving some breathing room afterward rather than rushing straight to your next activity.
Where do we check in?
Your check-in location depends on the operator and flight you choose. Follow the address on your confirmation. Most tours take off from the heliport in Lihue, but check in locations are dependent on company
Why do you need our weights?
Passenger weights help the operator plan aircraft loading and assign seats. Each aircraft has its own limits, and some bookings may require an additional seat or have other restrictions. Provide accurate weights for everyone in your party so the operator can confirm the right arrangements before flight day.
Can we have a private flight?
Yes, private options are available on select tours. They’re worth comparing if you’d like the experience to be just your party.
What should we wear?
Keep it comfortable and follow your operator’s footwear instructions. Bring a light layer, particularly for a doors-off flight.
Dark clothing is helpful for reducing window reflections on enclosed flights. Pack light, and check what you’re allowed to bring—especially phones, cameras, bags, and hats.
What if the weather doesn’t cooperate?
The operator may change the route, delay the flight, or cancel if conditions require it. Check your tour’s rescheduling and refund terms before booking.
Our planning tip: book your flight earlier in your stay when possible. That gives you more room to reschedule if needed, depending on availability.
Still not sure which flight to choose?
That’s what we’re here for. Tell us who’s traveling, where you’re staying, and what you’re most excited to see. Let us know if anyone feels nervous about flying or has specific seating needs.
Call or text 808-822-2846, and we’ll help you compare the options.
Let Us Help Plan Your Perfect Kauai Vacation
Discover the best of Kauai with a little help from our local team.
Let Us Help Plan Your Perfect Kauai Vacation
Discover the best of Kauai with a little help from our local team.
