Helsinki: Eco-friendly Helicopter Sightseeing Tour (1h)

Imagine soaring over Helsinki in a sleek helicopter, taking in the city’s iconic architecture, forested islands, and the shimmering Baltic Sea—all while flying with sustainable aviation fuel. This helicopter sightseeing tour offers a rare chance to see Finland’s capital from a perspective that’s both breathtaking and eco-conscious. We’re here to tell you what makes this experience stand out and why it might be just what you’re looking for on your Helsinki trip.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are the spectacular panoramic views—from the city’s rooftops to the distant archipelago—and the quiet, eco-friendly helicopters that make the experience more peaceful and responsible. The only potential drawback? It’s a relatively short flight, so if you crave a longer aerial adventure, you might want to combine it with other activities.

This experience appeals most to travelers who value authentic, high-quality sights and want to enjoy them in a way that’s gentle on the environment. It’s perfect for those seeking a memorable highlight of Helsinki with a touch of luxury, especially if you’re interested in photography or just want to see the city from a unique vantage point.

Key Points

• Eco-sensitive: Operates with the most silent, environmentally friendly helicopters using sustainable aviation fuel.
• Unmatched views: Offers sights of Helsinki’s architecture, the archipelago, forests, and possibly Tallinn on clear days.
• Inclusive experience: Includes complimentary champagne, soft drinks, and snacks, with a safety briefing and photo opportunities.
• Small group size: Private group experience ensures personalized attention and a more intimate adventure.
• Ideal timing: Flights last around 30 minutes, with total experience about 1.5 hours including ground services.
• Weather dependent: Flights may be delayed or canceled if weather conditions aren’t safe, but full refunds are available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What to Expect

Once you arrive at the Helsinki Business Flight Center, your journey begins with a warm welcome and a brief safety briefing. You’ll also have a chance to snap some photos on a red carpet—an Instagram-worthy start to what promises to be a memorable flight. The tour is operated with modern Airbus helicopters from 2022, which are among the most silent and eco-friendly aircraft you can find, flying on sustainable aviation fuel. This focus on sustainability is a significant perk if reducing your carbon footprint is part of your travel plan.

As you take off, the panoramic windows offer an almost 360-degree view. You’ll glide over forests on the east side of Helsinki, which remain largely untouched and give a sense of the natural environment close to urban life. The silence of the helicopter, thanks to its modern design, heightens the sense of tranquility. The experience is not just about sightseeing but also about feeling connected to the landscape without the usual drone of engines.

The Highlights of the Tour

Helsinki and the Archipelago

One of the most compelling parts of this tour is the flight over the Helsinki archipelago. You’ll see countless islands, some inhabited and others wild, offering a glimpse into the maritime culture of Finland. The sight of these islands, dotted across the sea, is often described as spectacular. As you approach the city, the view shifts from natural wilderness to Helsinki’s architectural center.

Suomenlinna Fortress and City Center

Flying around Suomenlinna, the UNESCO-listed sea fortress, provides a sense of Helsinki’s maritime history. The fortress, with its ramparts and historic buildings, looks stunning from the air. As you near the city, the helicopter passes in front of the Senate Square and the Helsinki Cathedral, iconic symbols of the city’s neoclassical architecture. One reviewer noted, “The pilot explained everything, whether it was the helicopter or the special features of the flight route,” adding a personal touch to the experience.

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Helsinki by the Sea and the Neighborhoods

The tour then heads towards the West side of the city, passing over upscale neighborhoods with impressive villas—some owned by international celebrities. On clear days, you might even glimpse Tallinn’s skyline across the water, a rare and exciting sight for those interested in regional geography.

Additional Visual Highlights

• Löyly: the modern sauna and restaurant by the sea, a symbol of Finnish design and lifestyle.
• The city skyline with its mix of modern and neoclassical structures.
• The Harbor and bustling port activity.

Photos and Memories

Throughout the flight, you’ll want to keep your camera or smartphone ready—this is a top spot for stunning photographs. The helicopter’s proximity to key sights allows for unique angles you simply can’t get from the ground, especially of the city’s architecture and natural surroundings.

What’s Included & Practical Considerations

The tour lasts approximately 30 minutes in the air, but the overall experience—ground services, safety briefing, and photo opportunities—takes around 1.5 hours. The package includes complimentary champagne, soft drinks, water, and snacks, adding a touch of luxury. The experience is designed for private groups, making it ideal for couples, families, or small travel parties seeking personalized service.

The meeting point at Helsinki Business Flight Center is straightforward to reach, and you’ll skip any long lines with a separate entrance. If weather conditions aren’t suitable, your flight might be postponed or canceled, but full refunds are offered if that happens.

The Flight Experience: Sound, Comfort, & Safety

The highlights of this tour are not just the sights but also the quietness and eco-friendliness of the helicopter. Equipped with the newest technology, these aircraft produce less noise and emissions. As one reviewer put it, “The pilot was in a class of his own,” emphasizing the professionalism and safety awareness of the crew. The small group size ensures you are not overwhelmed and can enjoy the views comfortably.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers with an appreciation for sustainable travel will find this tour especially appealing. If you’re into photography, the chance to capture Helsinki’s landmarks from above with minimal engine noise is a real bonus. It’s also perfect for those celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a posh way to see the city.

However, keep in mind that it’s not suitable for very young children (under 3) or those with mobility issues like wheelchair users. The duration is short but sweet—ideal for a quick, memorable highlight rather than a lengthy sightseeing marathon.

Analyzing the Value

While helicopter rides are generally considered a premium experience, this tour balances that luxury with an emphasis on sustainability and comfort. The price reflects the modern aircraft, personalized service, and the unique views offered. For many travelers, the opportunity to see Helsinki and its archipelago in such a responsible manner is worth the cost—especially when you consider the quality of the aircraft and the scenic rewards.

This eco-friendly helicopter tour in Helsinki offers a genuinely special way to take in the city’s most iconic sights. The experience combines luxury, sustainability, and stunning scenery, making it ideal for travelers who want a memorable, high-quality adventure. The knowledgeable pilot and well-organized ground services ensure a smooth, enjoyable flight, while the panoramic vistas provide countless photo opportunities.

If you’re seeking a luxurious yet responsible way to explore Helsinki from above, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s perfect for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to tick a bucket list item while minimizing their environmental impact.

For travelers who value authentic local scenery, expert guides, and eco-conscious travel, this helicopter tour hits all the right notes. It’s a luxurious snapshot of Helsinki that you’ll remember long after your trip ends.

How long does the helicopter flight last?
The flight itself lasts about 30 minutes. Including ground services and safety briefing, the entire experience takes around 1.5 hours.

What is the aircraft like?
The helicopters are modern Airbus models from 2022. They are among the most silent and environmentally friendly in the world, flying on sustainable aviation fuel.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the tour is operated as a private group, ensuring a more personalized experience. If you want an even more exclusive experience, you may contact the provider for a fully private tour.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera or charged smartphone—the views are stunning. It’s also wise to wear comfortable clothing, especially if it’s a chilly or windy day.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, if weather conditions are unsuitable, the tour may be delayed or canceled for safety reasons. You will receive a full refund if canceled due to weather.

Is the tour suitable for children?
This experience is not recommended for children under 3 and is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Are beverages and snacks included?
Yes, the package includes complimentary champagne, soft drinks, water, and snacks during the flight.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at the Helsinki Business Flight Center, making logistics straightforward for travelers.

This helicopter tour is a rare chance to see Helsinki’s beauty from a fresh and responsible perspective. It’s a luxurious, scenic experience that combines stunning views, expert guidance, and eco-awareness—making it a memorable highlight for your Finnish adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: