Guide to Helicopter Tours in Singapore

Singapore, with its stunning blend of futuristic architecture, lush greenery, and coastal vistas, is a fantastic destination for a helicopter tour. Seeing the Lion City from above provides a unique perspective on its iconic skyline and natural beauty. This guide will help you navigate the options and make the most of your helicopter experience in Singapore.

1. Why Take a Helicopter Tour in Singapore?

  • Unparalleled Views: Marvel at Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and Sentosa from the skies.

  • Exclusive Experience: Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat.

  • Compact Cityscape: Singapore’s layout makes it ideal for a concise yet comprehensive aerial tour.

2. Top Helicopter Tour Providers

1. Seletar Helicopter Tours

  • Departure Point: Seletar Airport.

  • Highlights:

    • Explore Marina Bay, East Coast, Sentosa, and the Singapore Flyer.

    • Private and shared tour options.

  • Tour Length: 20–30 minutes.

  • Cost: Starting at SGD 1,500 per flight (for private tours).

2. Singapore Heli Services

  • Departure Point: Seletar Airport or customized locations for private charters.

  • Highlights:

    • Customizable routes to include the city skyline, offshore islands, or neighboring countries.

    • Corporate and luxury packages available.

  • Tour Length: 30–60 minutes.

  • Cost: SGD 2,000–4,500 depending on duration and customization.

3. VIP Air Helicopter Charter

  • Departure Point: Multiple helipads in Singapore (Seletar or Marina South Pier).

  • Highlights:

    • Luxury charters with personalized itineraries.

    • Aerial views of Marina Bay Sands, the Southern Ridges, and Jurong Island.

  • Tour Length: 20–40 minutes.

  • Cost: Starting from SGD 2,500 for private tours.

3. What You’ll See

A helicopter tour offers sweeping views of Singapore’s most famous landmarks:

City Landmarks

  • Marina Bay Sands: Fly over this architectural marvel, including its iconic infinity pool and observation deck.

  • Gardens by the Bay: Witness the Supertree Grove and Flower Dome from a bird’s-eye view.

  • Singapore Flyer: Circle around one of the world's largest observation wheels.

Coastal and Island Highlights

  • Sentosa Island: Admire the luxury resorts, Universal Studios, and sandy beaches from above.

  • Southern Islands: Explore St. John’s, Lazarus, and Kusu Islands for a serene contrast to the city buzz.

Green Spaces

  • Botanic Gardens: A UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Singapore’s greenery.

  • Bukit Timah Nature Reserve: View Singapore’s lush tropical rainforest canopy.

4. Types of Helicopter Tours

Shared Tours

  • Cost-effective option where you share the helicopter with other passengers.

  • Ideal for couples or small groups.

  • Fixed routes covering the main attractions.

Private Charters

  • Perfect for families, corporate groups, or special occasions like proposals or anniversaries.

  • Customizable routes and durations.

Special Packages

  • Romantic Flights: Includes champagne and romantic music for proposals or anniversaries.

  • Photography Flights: Slower speeds and specific routes for optimal photography.

  • Corporate Packages: Tailored for VIP clients or team events.

5. Booking Tips

  • Advance Reservations: Helicopter tours are popular and limited in availability. Book at least 1–2 weeks in advance.

  • Weather Check: Singapore’s weather can be unpredictable. Confirm flight conditions on the day of your tour.

  • Cancellation Policies: Ensure you understand refund or rescheduling options in case of weather disruptions.

6. What to Expect on the Day

  1. Arrival: Arrive at the departure point 30–45 minutes before your scheduled flight.

  2. Briefing: Safety instructions and a brief overview of the flight.

  3. The Tour:

    • Smooth, stable flights with large windows for panoramic views.

    • Noise-cancelling headsets to communicate with the pilot and hear commentary.

7. Tips for an Enjoyable Experience

  • Timing Matters:

    • Morning Flights: Clear skies and optimal visibility.

    • Evening Flights: Romantic sunset views and stunning night lights.

  • Dress Comfortably: Light clothing is best, as helicopters can get warm.

  • Capture the Moment: Bring a good camera or smartphone with a wide-angle lens.

  • Stay Relaxed: Helicopter flights are stable, but inform the operator if you’re nervous.

8. Safety Considerations

  • Helicopter operators in Singapore adhere to strict safety protocols, with well-maintained aircraft and experienced pilots.

  • Listen carefully to the pre-flight safety briefing.

9. Combine Your Tour with Other Activities

To make the most of your day, pair your helicopter tour with other activities:

  • Marina Bay Sands SkyPark: View the city from another angle before or after your flight.

  • Sentosa Adventure: Spend the afternoon enjoying beaches or theme parks on Sentosa Island.

  • Luxury Dining: Book a meal at a rooftop restaurant like CÉ LA VI or Spago.

10. Cost Summary

Provider Tour Length Price (SGD) Key Features Seletar Helicopter Tours 20–30 minutes 1,500+ per flight Scenic routes over the city Singapore Heli Services 30–60 minutes 2,000–4,500 Customizable tours VIP Air Helicopter 20–40 minutes 2,500+ Luxury charters

11. Quick Sample Itinerary for a Helicopter Tour Day

Time Activity 10:00 AM Arrive at Seletar Airport 10:30 AM Pre-flight safety briefing 11:00 AM 30-minute helicopter tour 12:00 PM Lunch at a nearby restaurant 2:00 PM Explore Gardens by the Bay or Marina Bay Sands SkyPark

A helicopter tour in Singapore offers an unforgettable experience of this vibrant city. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an extraordinary adventure, seeing Singapore from the skies is a moment to cherish forever.

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