Los Angeles: Downtown Landing Helicopter Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing Los Angeles from above, this helicopter tour might be just what you need. It promises an exhilarating 1.5-hour experience, combining a 45-minute flight with a unique landing atop a downtown building where you’ll enjoy a toast and spectacular city views. As travel writers who love authentic experiences and practical details, we’ve looked into what makes this adventure stand out—and whether it’s worth the price.

Two things that immediately catch our eye are the spectacular aerial views of LA’s coastline and Hollywood landmarks and the unique opportunity to land on a building overlooking downtown’s skyline. These features promise a one-of-a-kind perspective that can’t be matched by ground tours or traditional sightseeing. On the flip side, potential travelers should consider the $649 price tag, which is quite steep, especially when factoring in additional costs like transportation to Burbank. Still, if you’re seeking a memorable, luxury experience with breathtaking views, this could be worth it.

This tour caters best to those who enjoy a touch of luxury, love spectacular vistas, and are comfortable with a private group setting. It’s especially suited for honeymooners, special occasion celebrants, or anyone eager to view Los Angeles from a new height—literally.

Key Points

• Combines a 45-minute helicopter flight with a 30-minute exclusive landing on a downtown rooftop
• Offers stunning views of LA coastline, celebrity homes, and iconic landmarks
• Includes complimentary sparkling wine, dessert, and roses for a romantic feel
• Starts at Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, with flexible booking and full cancellation options
• Suitable for private groups but has weight and weather restrictions
• Price reflects an upscale, exclusive experience

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins at Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, a convenient location for many travelers staying in LA or nearby. You’ll meet at the Orbic Air office located at Atlantic Aviation, which is inside the airport complex. This setup means you avoid the hassle of city traffic and can start your adventure with a sense of ease. Keep in mind: transportation to and from the airport isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

The tour is scheduled with some flexibility, and Orbic Air will confirm your exact time via email. Remember, your reservation is subject to availability, and if your preferred slot isn’t open, they’ll help you find an alternative.

The Helicopter Ride – View and Sensation

The main event is a 45-minute helicopter flight that takes you over some of LA’s most visually stunning spots. Expect to glide above Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Venice Beach, and Marina del Rey—each boasting famously picturesque coastlines. Then, the flight turns inland to swoop over celebrity homes in Bel Air, Beverly Hills, and the Hollywood Hills.

What makes this truly special is not just the aerial views but the perspective. We loved the way the coastline stretches endlessly, and the luxury mansions, with their sprawling gardens and pools, look even more impressive from the sky. You’ll also pass over landmarks like the Walt Disney Concert Hall, L.A. Live, Dodger Stadium, and Griffith Observatory—geographic highlights that provide context to the sprawling city.

Landing on a Downtown Building – The Highlight

The pièce de résistance is the 30-minute private landing atop a building overlooking the downtown skyline. This is where the experience elevates beyond a typical helicopter ride. You’ll step out of the chopper onto a rooftop, which offers unobstructed views of LA’s dense urban core—an unforgettable backdrop for photos.

Here, you’ll enjoy a complimentary sparkling wine toast, a dessert, and roses to set a romantic tone. Several reviewers have highlighted this part as a “fantastic” and “unique” feature that elevates the experience from just sightseeing to a memorable event. It’s an ideal setting for couples or anyone wanting that perfect Instagram shot with LA’s skyline in the background.

Post-Landing Sights and Return

After your rooftop visit, your pilot circles back to the airport, giving you additional time to marvel at the city from above. The tour wraps up back at the starting point, leaving you with a comprehensive aerial overview and a sense of achievement.

What’s Included and What’s Not

We appreciate the clarity on what’s included: a 45-minute helicopter flight, a 30-minute rooftop landing, sparkling wine, dessert, and roses. The cost per person is $649, which might seem high but reflects the exclusive nature of the experience.

Transportation to the airport isn’t included, so plan your arrival accordingly. The tour is suited for private groups, and the maximum weight per seat is 300 lbs (136 kg). This is worth noting if traveling with heavier friends or family members.

The Value in the Details

The price of $649 may seem steep on the surface, but when you consider the combination of flight, exclusive rooftop landing, champagne, and personalized setting, many will agree it offers solid value for those seeking a special occasion experience. It’s a rare chance to get such a close-up view of LA’s most iconic sights—something that ground tours simply can’t replicate.

Reviewers like Iréne have expressed high satisfaction, praising the “good guide,” “good bubbly,” and “nice rose,” emphasizing the personal touch and thoughtful amenities. These small touches—champagne, dessert, roses—add to the feeling of luxury and make it a memorable event.

The Practical Side: Timing, Weather, and Booking

Because weather can impact helicopter flights, the tour is subject to favorable conditions. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a refund, providing peace of mind.

Flexible booking options and the ability to reserve now and pay later add to the appeal, especially for those with unpredictable schedules.

Who Will Love This?

This tour appeals most to romantic couples, adventure seekers, and those looking to splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s also ideal for visitors celebrating a special event or anyone eager to capture sweeping aerial photographs with the LA skyline as a backdrop.

Who Might Want to Think Twice?

Those on a tight budget or travelers with weight restrictions might find this experience less accessible. Plus, if you aren’t comfortable with heights, a rooftop landing might be less appealing.

Final Thoughts

In assessing whether this helicopter landing tour is worth the investment, consider what you value in travel experiences. The unparalleled aerial views, the chance to land on a rooftop, and the personal touches of champagne and roses make this stand out as a luxury option that delivers more than just sightseeing—it’s about creating a memory.

For travelers who want to combine excitement with a touch of glamour, this experience offers an authentic, fun, and visually stunning way to see Los Angeles from above.

However, it’s not a casual, budget-friendly activity. It’s a premium experience designed for those who appreciate memorable moments, breathtaking scenery, and high-end service. If that sounds like you, this helicopter tour is likely to leave a lasting impression.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, including the helicopter ride and rooftop landing.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, at the Orbic Air office within Atlantic Aviation.

Is transportation to the airport included?
No, you need to arrange your own transport to and from the meeting point.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers a 45-minute helicopter flight, 30-minute rooftop landing, sparkling wine, dessert, and roses.

Can I book a specific time?
Yes, but the exact departure time isn’t guaranteed until confirmed by Orbic Air, based on availability.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, each passenger must weigh less than 300 lbs (136 kg). All weights should be advised at booking.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.

Is this a private group experience?
Yes, it’s designed as a private group, enhancing the intimacy and personalized feel of the adventure.

To sum it up, this helicopter landing tour is a fantastic option for those looking to elevate their LA experience—literally. It blends aerial sightseeing with a unique rooftop landing, complemented by luxury touches like champagne and roses. While the cost is on the higher side, the memories created here could easily be worth it, especially for special occasions or those wanting an unforgettable story to tell. If you’re ready for a high-flying adventure with a touch of elegance, this tour deserves your consideration.