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First-Time Helicopter Flight: What Can I Expect?
Your first helicopter flight is something truly special. Many of our guests stand in front of a helicopter for the very first time, feeling a mix of excitement and respect – and asking themselves the same questions: What does it feel like? Is it loud? Is it safe?
At FunFlights Helicopter-Tours, we have been accompanying first-time flyers for many years and know exactly what matters most: calmness, trust and a positive experience from the very first moment.
Arrival at the Meeting Point – Relaxed and Personal
From the moment you arrive at Bern-Belp Airport, you will notice that a helicopter flight feels very different from a traditional commercial flight. The meeting point is at Hangar No. 7, separate from the main terminal. There are no queues, no crowds and no hectic airport atmosphere.
Instead, you are welcomed personally by our team. Many guests are surprised by how calm and relaxed the environment is. The helicopter is already waiting, the rotor blades are still – and there is plenty of time to arrive, use the restroom, ask questions and mentally prepare for the experience ahead.
Check-in & Preparation – Everything Explained Step by Step
Check-in with FunFlights is simple and straightforward. Our crew verifies your booking voucher and calmly explains the flight procedure, always available to answer any questions you may have. Especially for first-time flyers, it is important to us that you feel well informed and comfortable.
Each passenger receives a flight ticket with additional information about flying in a helicopter. Before boarding, seats are assigned, and above each seat you will find a headset that can be individually adjusted.
There is no rush at any point – you should be able to enjoy the moment consciously.
The Safety Briefing – Clear and Reassuring
Before every flight, the pilot gives a clear and easy-to-understand safety briefing. Many first-time flyers quickly realize that this briefing is far less technical than they had expected.
The goal is not to overwhelm you with complex procedures, but to make safety feel natural and reassuring. Our pilots speak calmly, clearly and take their time – trust develops almost automatically.
Boarding & Headset – Closer Than in an Airplane
As soon as you board the helicopter, it becomes clear: this is a very different experience from flying in an airplane. Large windows provide an open view, the seats are comfortable, and the headset significantly reduces noise.
Through the headset, you can hear the pilot and even communicate during the flight. Many guests find this particularly pleasant – it creates a feeling of being involved and well cared for.
Takeoff – Gentle, Calm and Surprisingly Relaxing
Many first-time flyers expect a strong jolt or a sensation similar to an airplane during takeoff. In reality, the opposite is true. A helicopter does not take off abruptly – it gently lifts off the ground, almost as if it were slowly floating upward.
Instead of acceleration, there is a sense of calm. The ground moves away smoothly, movements are controlled and steady. Many guests are surprised by how stable and comfortable this moment feels. There is no pressure pushing you into the seat, no sudden tilting – just the sensation of being carried.
This gentle feeling continues throughout the flight. The helicopter glides smoothly through the air, responds precisely and conveys a constant sense of control and safety. For many passengers, this is the moment when all nervousness disappears – and pure fascination begins.
The Flight Sensation – Hovering Rather Than Flying
A helicopter moves differently from an airplane. Especially in good weather conditions, the flight feels stable and calm. Instead of a classic flying sensation, many guests describe it as hovering.
Fear of heights usually plays little role in a helicopter, as the surroundings remain visible at all times and the view does not suddenly “drop away.” Even light vibrations from the rotor are generally perceived as minimal and unobtrusive.
The View – As Close as It Gets
The most impressive part of a helicopter flight is undoubtedly the view. Through the large windows, you experience the Swiss landscape up close: mountains, glaciers, lakes and valleys feel almost within reach.
Compared to an airplane, you fly lower and closer to nature. Details become visible that remain hidden from the ground or from higher altitudes. For many guests, this is the moment they truly understand what makes a helicopter flight so unique.
Common Questions from First-Time Flyers
• Is it very loud?
Thanks to modern headsets, noise levels are pleasantly reduced.
• Can I feel sick?
Most guests find the flight very smooth and stable.
• May I take photos?
Yes, at any time – the views are perfect for photography.
• Does the pilot speak during the flight?
Yes, our pilots provide information about the route and points of interest.
Landing – Smooth and Precise
The landing is just as controlled and gentle as the takeoff. Many guests are surprised by how quickly the flight time passes – and how intense the impressions remain.
Once the pilot gives the signal, passengers may disembark. Often, there is a brief moment of reflection, followed by exchanged impressions – and not rarely the sentence: “That was much smoother than I expected.”
After Your First Helicopter Flight
A first helicopter flight is rarely an adrenaline-filled experience. Instead, it is a combination of calm, wonder and excitement. Each passenger receives a small souvenir from FunFlights and a link to download photos of your helicopter tour free of charge.
For many guests, our high level of service remains a lasting memory and becomes the starting point for future flights.
At FunFlights Helicopter-Tours, we are happy to guide you through your first step into the world of helicopter flying – professionally, safely and with extensive experience.