The Grand Canyon is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world, and there’s no better way to experience its vast beauty than from the air. Whether you choose a helicopter tour or airplane tour, you’ll get unparalleled views of the canyon’s massive rock formations, winding river, and stunning landscapes. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Grand Canyon flights, including types of tours, best departure points, prices, safety, and booking tips.
Why Take a Flight Over the Grand Canyon?
A flight over the Grand Canyon is unlike anything else. Standing at the rim, you get a sense of its enormity, but only from the sky can you truly appreciate the vast scale of this natural wonder. The canyon stretches for 277 miles, plunging over a mile deep in places, and from the air, the sheer size becomes even more dramatic. The view is an artist’s palette of layered red, orange, and golden rock, carved over millions of years by the winding Colorado River. For those short on time, a flight allows you to see more of the canyon in less than an hour—far more than what’s possible by car or foot. And while hiking gives you an intimate experience with the terrain, soaring above the rugged landscape delivers an unmatched sense of awe. It’s an experience that lingers long after the journey ends.
Helicopter or Airplane: Which Flight is Right for You?
Choosing between a helicopter or airplane tour depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Helicopters provide an up-close and immersive journey, dipping into the depths of the canyon, tracing the curves of the rock walls, and even landing in remote spots where you can step out onto the canyon floor. These tours typically carry a small number of passengers, offering a more personal, intimate experience. Some tours include a landing inside the canyon where you can enjoy a champagne toast while gazing at the towering cliffs around you.
Airplane tours, on the other hand, fly at a higher altitude and cover a much larger portion of the canyon, making them ideal for those who want to take in sweeping panoramic views. They are also more budget-friendly and can accommodate larger groups. Airplanes provide a smoother ride than helicopters and are a good choice for those prone to motion sickness. While they lack the up-close drama of a helicopter flight, they compensate by showing you a vast expanse of this natural marvel in one sweeping glance.
In the following article, you will find a Pros and Cons overview to help you decide what is best for you.
Airplane vs. Helicopter: What is right for you?
Departure Points and Routes: Where to Start Your Journey
Las Vegas is one of the most popular departure points for Grand Canyon flights. Helicopter tours from the city whisk you away over the Mojave Desert, offering stunning views of Hoover Dam and Lake Mead before reaching the canyon’s West Rim. Some tours even include a landing on the canyon floor, where you can step out and take in the surreal landscape. If you’re staying in Las Vegas and want to see the canyon in just a few hours, this is a perfect option.
We have prepared an overview of all Grand Canyon helicopter tours from Las Vegas for you.
For those coming from Phoenix, airplane tours are the best way to reach the Grand Canyon efficiently. These flights take you over the red rock formations of Sedona and the Painted Desert before reaching the canyon. While helicopters don’t typically operate from Phoenix, these airplane tours provide a great way to experience the vast scenery from above.
If you’re already at the Grand Canyon, flights from the South Rim offer short but spectacular aerial tours. These flights give you an extraordinary view of the deepest and widest parts of the canyon, with some routes passing over the Kaibab National Forest before dipping into the dramatic canyon landscape below. For those spending time in the national park, a flight from the South Rim is a fantastic way to see just how immense this natural wonder truly is.
We have prepared an overview of all flights departing from Grand Canyon National Park Airport .
When to Fly: The Best Time for a Grand Canyon Tour
The best time to take a Grand Canyon flight depends on your preferences. Spring and fall provide the most comfortable temperatures and clear skies, making them ideal seasons for aerial tours. Summer brings more tourists, meaning flights book up quickly, but it’s also a time when the canyon is at its most vibrant. Winter offers fewer crowds and lower prices, but flights may be subject to weather-related cancellations.
The time of day can also impact your experience. Morning flights generally offer the clearest visibility and smoother air, making them a great choice for photographers. Afternoon flights may experience more turbulence but bring warmer tones and shadows that emphasize the canyon’s contours. For those wanting a truly magical experience, sunset flights are a favorite, as the setting sun bathes the canyon in golden hues, creating an unforgettable spectacle.
Pricing, Packages, and How to Get the Best Deals
The cost of a Grand Canyon flight varies depending on the type of tour and departure point. Helicopter tours typically range between $200 and $600 per person, with premium options including longer flights and landing experiences. Airplane tours, being more affordable, generally cost between $150 and $400 per person. If you’re looking for a more exclusive experience, private charters are available for upwards of $1,500.
Many tour operators offer package deals that bundle flights with additional experiences, such as tickets to the Grand Canyon Skywalk, rafting excursions on the Colorado River, or guided ground tours. Booking in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, is the best way to secure a good price and guarantee availability. Travelers should also keep an eye out for promotions and discounts, which are often available through tour operators, hotel concierges, or online travel agencies.
If you would love to have it really fancy, you can even charter the helicopter just for you and your company.
What to Expect and How to Prepare for Your Flight
Flying over the Grand Canyon is a smooth and exhilarating experience, but there are a few things to keep in mind before takeoff. Helicopters can be more susceptible to turbulence, particularly in the afternoons when the air is warmer. If you’re prone to motion sickness, booking a morning flight when conditions are calmer can make for a more comfortable experience. Passengers are typically weighed before boarding to ensure proper weight distribution for the aircraft. If you weigh over 250 pounds, some tour operators may require you to purchase an additional seat.
Dressing in layers is a good idea, as temperatures can vary depending on the time of year and altitude. Sunglasses are recommended, as the glare from the canyon’s rock formations can be intense. Cameras and smartphones are welcome on board, but it’s advisable to secure loose items, as strong winds can make handling small devices tricky.
The truth: Is a Grand Canyon Flight Worth It?
For many, a flight over the Grand Canyon is the highlight of their trip, offering an unparalleled perspective of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Whether you choose a helicopter for its immersive experience or an airplane for its panoramic views, seeing the canyon from above is an unforgettable adventure. The sense of scale, the colors of the rock formations, and the winding river below all combine to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
For those planning their visit, booking early, choosing the right season, and selecting a flight that aligns with your preferences will ensure you get the most out of your journey. From the moment the aircraft lifts off the ground to the final breathtaking pass over the canyon, a Grand Canyon flight is an experience that stays with you long after you return to solid ground.
Overview of all Grand Canyon Flights
We have prepared this overview of all flights at the Grand Canyon. You will see all flights with operator, duration, departure airport and of course the price. This list is updated reguarly to provide you with the most up to date information. Click on a tour name to view the details of the tour.
| Name | Departure | Operator | Duration | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skywalk Getaway with Heli and Boat - Helicopter tour from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon | Boulder City | Papillon Helicopters | Tour Duration: Approximately 6.5-7 hours hotel-to-hotel Flight Duration: Approximately 70 minutes |
Helicopter | $829 |
| Indian Territory Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour | Las Vegas | Maverick Helicopters | Total: Approx. 7.5 hours (hotel to hotel) Airtime: Approx. 45 minutes each way Airtime (to Rim): Approx. 10 minutes 1st Landing: Approx. 30 minutes 2nd Landing: Approx. 2.5 hours |
Helicopter | $739 |
| Wind Dancer Sunset Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour | Las Vegas | Maverick Helicopters | Total: Approx. 4.5 hours (hotel to hotel) Airtime: Approx. 45 minutes each way Landing: Approx. 30-40 minutes |
Helicopter | $629 |
| Western Journey Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour | Las Vegas | Maverick Helicopters | Total: Approx. 4 hours (hotel to hotel) Airtime: Approx. 45 minutes each way Landing: Approx. 30 minutes |
Helicopter | $549 |
| Imperial Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour with EcoStar | Grand Canyon Airport | Papillon Helicopters | 40 - 50 minutes | Helicopter | $399 |
| Grand Canyon Deluxe with Helicopter - Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon | Boulder City | Papillon Helicopters | Approximately 9.5 hours from hotel pick-up to hotel drop-off (if hotel transfers selected) Approx. airplane flight time: 2 hours and 20 minutes in total Approx. helicopter flight time: 25 to 30 minutes Approx. Hummer tour time: 2.5 to 3 hours |
Helicopter | $849 |
| Skywalk Odyssey Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour with Skywalk admission | Las Vegas | Maverick Helicopters | Approx. 5 hours (hotel to hotel) Airtime: Approx. 45 minutes each way Landing: Approx. 60 minutes |
Helicopter | $629 |
| Grand Canyon Wind Dancer Helicopter Tour | Las Vegas | Maverick Helicopters | Total: Approx. 4 hours (hotel to hotel) Airtime: Approx. 45 minutes each way Landing: Approx. 30 minutes |
Helicopter | $599 |
| Grand Discovery Air Tour - Grand Canyon Airplane Tour | Grand Canyon Airport | Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines | Approximately 40-45 minutes | Airplane | $179 |
| Grand Discovery Rim to Sky Tour | Grand Canyon Airport | Papillon Helicopters | 40 - 45 minutes | Airplane | $299 |
| Grand Canyon Skywalk Express Helicopter Tour from Las Vegas | Las Vegas | 5 Star Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours | 4 Hours Flight duration: 90 minutes. Grand Canyon Skywalk: 30 minutes |
Helicopter | $649 |
| Grand Canyon Helicopter Eagle Point Rim Landing Tour from Las Vegas | Las Vegas | 5 Star Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours | 4 Hours Flight duration: 90 minutes. Rim landing: 60 minutes |
Helicopter | $599 |
| Grand Canyon Helicopter Falcon Flight from Las Vegas | Las Vegas | 5 Star Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours | 3 Hours Flight duration: 85 minutes |
Helicopter | $499 |
| GRAND VOYAGER RIM TO RIVER - Scenic airplane and helicopter tour from Las Vegas | Boulder City | Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines | 7 hours | Airplane | $549 |
| HIGHLIGHTS OVER GRAND CANYON - Scenic airplane tour from Las Vegas | Boulder City | Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines | 4 hours | Airplane | $224 |
| GRAND CANYON WEST EXPERIENCE LANDING TOUR from Las Vegas | Boulder City | Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines | 7 hours | Airplane | $329 |
| Canyon Dancer Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour | Grand Canyon Airport | Maverick Helicopters | Approx. 25 minutes | Helicopter | $329 |
| Papillon "Golden Eagle" Grand Canyon Tour | Boulder City | Papillon Helicopters | Approximately 3½-4 hours from hotel pick-up to hotel drop-off | Helicopter | $379 |
| "VIP at the Rim" Helicopter Tour from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon | Las Vegas | Papillon Helicopters | Tour Duration: Approximately 7 hours hotel-to-hotel Flight Duration: Approximately 70 minutes |
Helicopter | $519 |
| Ace of Adventures Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour | Boulder City | Papillon Helicopters | Tour Duration: Approximately 3.5 - 4 hours hotel-to-hotel Helicopter Flight Duration: Approximately 70 minutes |
Helicopter | $499 |
| Papillon Grand Celebration Tour | Boulder City | Papillon Helicopters | Tour Duration: Approximately 4-4.5 hours hotel-to-hotel Helicopter Flight Duration: Approximately 70 minutes Time Spent at the Grand Canyon: Approximately 30 minutes |
Helicopter | $479 |
| King of Canyons Helicopter Tour (2025) | Las Vegas | Papillon Helicopters | Approximately 3.5 to 4 hours from hotel pick-up to hotel drop-off | Helicopter | $579 |
| Grand Canyon North Rim Helicopter Tour | Grand Canyon Airport | Papillon Helicopters | 30 minutes | Helicopter | $269 |
| Grand Canyon Scenic Airplane Tour – from Phoenix (AIR) | Phoenix Deer Valley | Westwind Air Service | 3 hours | Airplane | $569 |
| Grand Canyon Scenic Airplane Signature Tour – from Phoenix (PJX) | Phoenix Deer Valley | Westwind Air Service | 6 - 7 hours | Airplane | $669 |
| Canyon Spirit - Grand Canyon aerial adventure | Grand Canyon Airport | Maverick Helicopters | Approx. 45 minutes | Helicopter | $399 |