Downtown Philadelphia Helicopter Tour

A Realistic Look at the Downtown Philadelphia Helicopter Tour

If you’re considering a helicopter ride over Philadelphia, you’ve probably seen the glossy pictures and heard the hype. This tour, offered by MyFlight Tours, promises a 12-minute flight with sweeping views of the city skyline, the Delaware River, and landmarks like the Comcast Center. It’s marketed as a memorable experience, perfect for special occasions or just a thrill-seeking day out.

We appreciate how this tour puts a spotlight on spectacular city views and takes you past major sights such as the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and the Nickel Bridge. The idea of soaring above the city while soaking in the sights is undeniably appealing, especially if you’re into unique perspectives of an urban landscape. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means you’re not sharing the sky with strangers, which can make the experience feel more intimate.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind. The price is $125 per person, which isn’t cheap for just 12 minutes in the air. And, based on reviews, the overall experience seems to be somewhat lacking in polish and consistency. If you’re expecting a flawless, high-end adventure, you might find this tour falls a bit short.

That said, it could be a fun pick if you’re after great views and a quick adrenaline rush, particularly if you’re visiting Philadelphia for the first time or celebrating something special. It’s most suited for those who value the view and a bit of adventure over a perfectly seamless experience.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: The main draw is the panoramic perspective of Philadelphia’s skyline and landmarks.
• Short & Sweet: At just about 12 minutes, it’s a quick thrill rather than a lengthy tour.
• Price Point: At $125, it’s an investment for a brief, scenic experience—worth it if views are your priority.
• Limited Duration: Some travelers might find the short flight too brief for the price.
• Private Tour: Only your group participates, which helps keep it exclusive.
• Mixed Reviews: While views are praised, overall satisfaction varies, with some noting a less polished experience.

What to Expect from the Tour Itinerary

This helicopter tour kicks off at a meeting point on Ashton Road in Philadelphia and ends back at the same location—meaning no extra transport or hassle. The itinerary is straightforward but thoughtfully designed to showcase the city’s most iconic sights.

The first stop is a view of the Delaware River. You’ll fly over and admire the river from above, passing the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and Nickel Bridge, both impressive structures with their own stories. This gives you a perfect opportunity to snap photos of one of Philadelphia’s most recognizable natural and man-made features.

Next, you’ll soar above the Philadelphia skyline, taking in the towering skyscrapers and landmarks. The views of the Comcast Center are especially highlighted, and according to reviews, these vistas are what many find most breathtaking. Being able to see the city from above lets you appreciate its layout and architecture in a way that ground-level sightseeing simply can’t provide.

The entire flight lasts around 12 minutes, which is enough to get a quick taste of aerial sightseeing but probably leaves some wanting more. It’s important to note that the tour is private—your group will be the only ones in the helicopter—adding a layer of exclusivity to the experience.

The Experience on the Day

While the itinerary is clear, the actual experience can vary depending on weather, the pilot, and other factors. One reviewer mentioned that their plans to surprise a loved one were hindered due to incorrect contact info—so communication might sometimes be an issue.

From what we gather, you’ll meet at the designated location, where your group will be briefed and prepared for flight. The total weight limit per person is 300 lbs, which is fairly standard, but worth noting if you’re on the heavier side.

During the flight, you can expect to be seated comfortably and to enjoy panoramic views, which are consistently praised. The short duration means you’ll want to savor each moment—it’s a quick but visually impressive experience.

Is It Worth It? A Closer Look at Value

At $125, you’re paying a premium for just over ten minutes in the air. When considering whether it’s worth it, think about what matters most: the spectacular views and the exclusivity of a private flight. For many, the thrill and photo opportunities justify the cost, especially if you’re celebrating something special.

However, some might feel that the experience is a little pricey for the limited time. If you’re seeking a longer or more luxurious helicopter ride, this might not satisfy those expectations. It’s a short, scenic jaunt, not a comprehensive aerial tour.

Based on reviews, the views are often the highlight, with many noting that they found the visuals “really stunning.” But, the overall experience seems to be less polished, with some reviewers pointing out inconsistencies. Still, if your priority is capturing memorable photos and experiencing Philly from above, it could be a worthwhile splurge.

Practical Details and Considerations

Booking ahead is strongly advised, with most travelers reserving about 20 days in advance. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking, and no specific restrictions other than total weight per passenger (300 lbs).

The meeting point is at 9800 Ashton Rd, and the tour ends there, so plan your transportation accordingly. The activity is straightforward, and because it’s private, only your group will be onboard, which can make for a more relaxed experience.

Cancellation policy is flexible, allowing free cancellations up to 24 hours before the flight—useful if weather or other factors threaten to spoil your plans.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves breathtaking views and wants to experience Philadelphia from above without a long commitment, this tour can be a good pick. It’s particularly suited for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a quick adrenaline rush with stunning visuals.

It’s not the best choice if you’re looking for a luxurious or in-depth aerial experience—the short flight time might leave some feeling a bit underwhelmed, especially considering the price.

Travelers who appreciate the thrill of flying and are happy with a snapshot of the city will find this quite enjoyable. But if you’re a serious photographer or want a more comprehensive tour, you might want to explore longer or more extensive options, if available.

Final Thoughts

This helicopter tour over downtown Philadelphia offers beautiful views and a dash of adventure, but the limited duration and mixed reviews mean it’s best enjoyed with realistic expectations. It’s a quick, private thrill that’s probably best suited for fans of scenic photography or a special occasion.

While the experience isn’t flawless, the views are undeniably impressive—and that’s what most people seem to love. If you’re okay with a short flight and are looking for a memorable snapshot of Philly from the sky, it can be worth considering. Just be prepared for the possibility that the experience might not be as smooth or polished as some high-end helicopter tours.

FAQ about the Downtown Philadelphia Helicopter Tour

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour can accommodate most travelers, but specific age restrictions aren’t specified. If traveling with very young children, it’s best to check with the provider about safety and comfort, especially since the review mentions a 2.5-year-old’s first helicopter ride.

How long does the helicopter flight last?
The flight time is approximately 12 minutes, making it a quick but visually impressive experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at 9800 Ashton Rd in Philadelphia, so no need for extra transportation once you’re there.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll get views of the Delaware River, Benjamin Franklin Bridge, Nickel Bridge, and the Philadelphia skyline, including the Comcast Center.

What’s the price?
It costs $125 per person, which covers the 12-minute private flight.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled flight, with a full refund.

In the end, this tour is a bit of a mixed bag—it offers amazing views but might leave some feeling that the experience could be more polished or longer. If you’re after a brief aerial snapshot of Philadelphia and love the idea of skylines and bridges from above, it’s worth considering. Just weigh that against the cost and the short duration, and decide if it fits what you’re hoping for on your trip.