FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
HOW MANY PEOPLE CAN FLY?
We can fly up to three passengers each flight. Larger groups will fly multiple flights back to back with 2 or 3 passengers on each flight.
WHERE DO YOUR TOURS DEPART FROM?
All tours depart from our hangar at the Cherry Capital Airport. 1190 Airport Access Road Traverse City, MI 49686
WHAT HAPPENS IF THE WEATHER IS BAD?
If we are unable to fly due the inclement weather, we will offer to reschedule your flight for another time or give you a full refund.
WHAT TIME OF DAY IS VISIBILITY BEST FOR TOURS?
Welcome to paradise! Traverse City enjoys beautiful weather mornings, afternoons, and evenings. So the real question is, “When do you want to fly?” Of course, we do keep our eye constantly on the weather reports to make sure your helicopter flight is the best possible experience.
IS PHOTOGRAPHY ALLOWED?
Not only is photography allowed, it’s encouraged! You’ll see Northern Michigan like you’ve never seen it before!
HOW SHOULD I DRESS FOR MY FLIGHT?
The temperature aboard the helicopter is very comfortable during flights—t-shirts, shorts or pants are just fine. Please note that hats are not allowed on board your flight. Your hat might blow off your head and fly up into the rotors and that is very unsafe. You may leave any hats in the office during our flight.
DO YOU GUARANTEE THAT WE WILL SEE EVERY SIGHT LISTED ON THE TOUR?
We try to fly over every landmark listed on your selected tour. However, flying in a helicopter is not as simple as watching a movie. Once in a while we have to contend with poor visibility, strong winds, or other weather that may prevent us from taking our normal route. We will do our best to cover the listed landmarks as well as accommodate any requests that you may have.
I GET MOTION SICKNESS FREQUENTLY. SHOULD I TAKE MEDICINE BEFORE THE FLIGHT?
Our flights are very smooth; this is not a theme park ride! So many people who presume they may have an issue feel just fine during the tour. However, if you are prone to motion sickness you might want to take a motion sickness pill just as a precaution. We want you to enjoy your flight!
ARE YOUNG CHILDREN ALLOWED ON FLIGHTS?
Yes, children 24 months and under do well on flights. We even have baby headsets for them to wear. Please be aware that FAA regulations require a full-fare seat for children 24 months and over. Children 24 months and under are welcome to sit on the lap of a responsible adult at no charge however weight restrictions do apply.
CAN I BOOK YOUR HELICOPTER FOR PRIVATE CHARTERS?
TC Helicopters offers aerial photography/filming, surveying, intro-flights, and general flight training. On-demand air-charter operations will be coming soon.
HOW EXPERIENCED ARE YOUR PILOTS?
We employ some of the most skilled pilots in the state and hold them to the highest standards. Our pilots are very experienced in their knowledge of TC skies, climates, and terrain. Their abilities will put you at ease as you fly over the beaches, dunes, and sights of Northern Michigan.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOURS OF OPERATION?
Our office hours for booking your tour are as follows:
Off-Season Tours run November through April
Office Booking Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30AM-5:00PM
Tours: Saturday and Sunday only; weather permitting
Peak Season Tours run May through October
Office Booking Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30AM-5:00PM; Saturday-Sunday 9:00AM-5:00PM
Tours: Monday through Sunday sunrise to sunset; weather permitting