Phoenix is a city that offers more than just desert heat and southwestern charm. Its proximity to the Grand Canyon, Sedona’s red rocks, and other rugged landscapes makes it a prime spot for aerial tours. Whether you’re after a full-day adventure or a quick scenic flight, Phoenix’s helicopter and airplane tours deliver memorable views from the sky. Of these, the Grand Canyon helicopter trips stand out for their breathtaking sights, like soaring over the canyon’s vastness and walking its rim.
We’ve rounded up the best helicopter flights and aerial tours that combine natural beauty with expert guides, great value, and unforgettable experiences. From a comprehensive day trip to a shorter aerial adventure, these options cater to different interests and time commitments. If you’re wondering which tour fits your style, keep reading.
1. Grand Canyon Helicopter & Ground Tour From Phoenix
This full-day trip is perfect for those who want a complete experience of the Grand Canyon, combining scenic drives with an exhilarating helicopter flight. Starting from Phoenix or Scottsdale, you’ll travel through Sonoran Desert and Coconino National Forest, enjoying the changing scenery from saguaros to pine forests. The highlight is a 45-minute helicopter flight that covers over 90 miles, soaring across the South Rim, North Rim, and the Colorado River.
What makes this tour stand out is the balance of land and sky. After the helicopter ride, you’ll have ample free time at the South Rim to walk along the rim, take photos, or relax. The scenic drive on historic Route 66 adds a nostalgic touch, making the trip as much about the journey as the destination.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer calling out Mark L for his expertise, and the helicopter flight itself gets glowing reviews for exceeding expectations. The value is solid at $599 per person, considering the length of the trip, the helicopter experience, and the personalized service.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a comprehensive, immersive Grand Canyon experience, ideal if you want a lovely mix of scenic driving, walking, and aerial views.
2. Phoenix: Grand Canyon National Park Tour & Helicopter Flight
This 13-hour day trip is a bit more streamlined but equally impressive, focused on exploring the deepest and widest parts of the Grand Canyon. The tour includes scenic driving through the Sonoran Desert and Coconino National Forest, with a 45-minute helicopter flight that gives you a rim-to-rim view of the canyon. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive look at the canyon’s grandeur without extra fuss.
The tour, rated 4.9 out of 5, is led by a professional guide who adds insights along the way. The helicopter ride, renowned for its stunning vistas, offers a unique perspective that can’t be matched from land. The value of $599 is in line with the all-day itinerary, comprehensive views, and expert guiding.
Reviewers mention how the flight was “super awesome,” and the experience is suitable for those who want a luxurious, hassle-free day trip with plenty of opportunities to photograph and explore. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate a guided experience that covers all the essential sights.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a full, guided day with a focus on Grand Canyon’s scale and depth, this trip fits the bill.
3. Grand Canyon Aerial Tour (AIR)
For a shorter, more focused experience, this 3-hour aerial airplane tour offers a bird’s-eye view of the widest, deepest part of the Grand Canyon. Departing from Phoenix, your pilot takes you on a scenic flight over the Verde Valley, Sedona, the San Francisco Peaks, and the Painted Desert, culminating with 30 minutes over the canyon itself.
What makes this tour unique is the aerial airplane format, which allows for faster, more dynamic flights without the need for a helicopter. You’ll get narrated commentary about landmarks like Tonto National Forest, Sedona’s red rocks, and the Navajo reservation—great for those who want an educational element along with the stunning views.
Rated 4.5 out of 5, this tour costs $865 per person, reflecting its more exclusive, small-group feel and the ability to choose between morning and afternoon flights. Reviewers comment on the smooth flight and captivating scenery, with many noting it’s a great option for a quick aerial adventure.
Bottom Line: This is a solid choice if you want a faster, plane-based tour with a focus on wider regional sights and don’t mind paying a bit more for the experience.
How to Choose Your Perfect Sky-High Adventure
When selecting the best helicopter or aerial tour in Phoenix, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you want a full-day immersive experience, the Grand Canyon Helicopter & Ground Tour offers a rich combination of drive, walk, and flight. For those seeking a guided, streamlined journey, the Grand Canyon National Park Tour provides excellent value with expert narration and thorough canyon views.
If your schedule is tight but you still want a high-quality aerial perspective, the Grand Canyon Aerial Tour (AIR) delivers a quick, panoramic flight with plenty of photo opportunities—even if it’s more expensive. For the ultimate canyon adventure combining scenic driving, helicopter flight, and free time, booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Phoenix’s location makes it a top base for air tours over some of Arizona’s most stunning landscapes. The full-day Grand Canyon helicopter trips stand out for their combination of spectacular vistas and immersive experiences, making them ideal for first-timers and adventure lovers. The airplane option offers a faster trip, perfect if you’re short on time but still want to see the canyon’s vastness from above.
If you’re planning your trip, consider what kind of experience you want—whether it’s a comprehensive day tour or a quick aerial view—and book early to secure your spot. These sky-high adventures are among the most memorable ways to see the American Southwest.
Enjoy your flight above one of the world’s most iconic landscapes, and happy exploring!