Will I see the volcano?
The volcanoes that comprise the island of Oahu have not erupted in several hundred thousand years. Hawaii ’s active volcano, Kilauea, is located on the Big Island, which is about 250 miles from Oahu . We can take you to the Big Island by helicopter or airplane. Please call us for information and pricing on neighbor island tours.
Will I see waterfalls?
If there has been an abundance of rainfall, you’ll see many waterfalls during your tour, especially if you opt for our hour-long tour. Naturally, waterfalls tend to be scarce if there has been no rain.
Will I see Pearl Harbor?
Yes. Each of our tours includes a marvelous pass over Pearl Harbor, where you’ll see the Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri.
Where does the tour take us?
The 30-minute Pali Makani tour takes you over Honolulu Harbor, Waikiki, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, around Makapuu Point, along Waimanalo Beach, through the Nuuanu Pali and then over Pearl Harbor to the airport. The 45-minute Hidden Oahu tour takes this same path but instead of turning back to the airport at the Pali, the flight continues on over Kaneohe Bay, up through Kaaawa Valley, to Sacred Falls, over Kahuku Point, along the North Shore surfing spots and then over Oahu ’s central plain, passing over Pearl Harbor as you return to the airport. The 60-minute Sacred Falls tour follows this same path until you reach the central plain; here, you will then proceed south either through the Kolekole Pass or over the Waianae range to the Ko Olina resort area before returning via Pearl Harbor to the airport. For a more complete description, click here.
How many people can fit in the helicopter?
The A-Star carries six passengers plus the pilot. For the comfort of all passengers, Open Seating passengers weighing in excess of 250 pounds may be charged an additional fee equal to one-half the cost of one seat. Open Seating passengers weighing more than 300 pounds will be charged for an additional seat. Any two Open Seating passengers from the same reservation whose combined weight exceeds 430 pounds may be required to purchase a comfort seat. An individual First Class passenger’s weight must not exceed 180 pounds; the combined weight of two First Class passengers must not exceed 345 pounds.
Can I be guaranteed a front seat?
Practically everyone wants to sit up front where you will get arguably the best view. The front seats are considered “First Class” and are available for a slight additional charge. The combined weight for both parties seated up front cannot exceed 360 pounds.
Is there a discount for kids?
The FAA requires that every passenger over 24 months occupy his or her own seat. However, children younger than that can ride on their parents’ lap for free.
Can I take pictures?
Yes, we encourage you to take pictures and/or video. Bring extra film.
Do you provide a video?
Yes. The A-Star is equipped with a live camera DVD recording system that records each flight. The video also records your pilot’s narration, your own comments and questions and gentle Hawaiian music in the background. You may purchase a DVD of your actual flight following your tour.
What happens if it’s cloudy?
As a rule, we don’t fly if the weather is inclement. After all, we want you to enjoy your tour. We encourage you to book your tour early in your stay so that you have the flexibility to fly another day if the weather is poor.
Am I going to get sick?
The A-Star is an extremely stable aircraft and is used worldwide for air tours. Your tour will be a comfortable experience as we follow the Tour Operator’s Program of Safety flight guidelines which call for limited pitch and bank angles.
Is it safe to fly in a helicopter?
Absolutely. Makani Kai Helicopters enjoys a spotless safety record. We use modern equipment, employ the finest and most experienced pilots, have a highly dedicated and trained support staff and are proud members of T.O.P.S., the Tour Operator’s Program of Safety.
What if I have more questions?
If you have more questions please to send us feedback or feel free to call during business hours.
