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ATTRACTIONSouth Rim, Grand Canyon Village

Grand Canyon Helicopters – Grand Canyon Village

4.7 (145 Google reviews)

Experience the South Rim from above on 25‑ to 45‑minute flights departing year‑round from Grand Canyon National Park Airport in Tusayan.

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Trip Snapshot

Best Time to Visit
08:00‑11:00, Mar–May & Sep–Oct for mild weather and calm air
Open
Open now · 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Price Range
$$$$
Parking
Free parking at Grand Canyon National Park Airport terminal
Reviews from Google
4.7

(145 reviews)

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Why Visit Grand Canyon Helicopters – Grand Canyon Village

Experience the South Rim from above on 25‑ to 45‑minute flights departing year‑round from Grand Canyon National Park Airport in Tusayan.

Highlights

Panoramic flights over the Colorado River, Kaibab Forest and Dragon Corridor
EcoStar EC‑130 helicopters with wrap‑around windows and quiet‑ride technology
Multilingual narration and optional HD video + photo packages

Description

Grand Canyon Helicopters is the South Rim brand of Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters, the world’s longest‑running air‑tour operator. Based just seven miles south of Grand Canyon Village, the company flies modern EcoStar and A‑Star helicopters across the canyon’s widest and deepest sections. Flights depart every 15–30 minutes during daylight hours, with complimentary shuttles from Tusayan and park lodges. FAA‑certified pilots deliver live commentary, supported by recorded narration in 12 languages. Passengers enjoy climate‑controlled cabins, stadium seating and 180‑degree views.

History

1965
Grand Canyon Helicopters founded by Elling Halvorson
1985
Begins sightseeing flights from Grand Canyon National Park Airport
1997
Receives FAA Part 135 Air‑Carrier certification
2001
Adds Eurocopter A‑Star fleet
2010
Introduces quieter EcoStar EC‑130 aircraft
2015
50‑year anniversary; 5 million passengers flown
2020
Earns TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award

Features

Climate‑controlled terminal with seating & restrooms
Free on‑site parking
Wheelchair‑accessible lobby and restrooms
Complimentary hotel shuttle (Tusayan & South Rim lodges)
Multilingual audio narration (12 languages)
Photo & HD video packages
Gift shop with snacks and souvenirs

Getting There

Car: 5 min south of the South Rim entrance on AZ‑64; follow airport signs. Park Shuttle: Seasonal Tusayan Route (Purple) stops at the airport. Taxi/Ride‑Share: Available from Grand Canyon Village and Tusayan. Plane: Daily scheduled flights to Grand Canyon National Park Airport (GCN) from Las Vegas.

Insider Tips

Local advice to help you make the most of your visit.

01Good to know

Book at least two weeks ahead for sunrise or sunset slots.

02Be prepared

Wear dark clothing to reduce window reflections in photos.

03Local tip

Prone to motion sickness? Request a forward seat and take medication 30 minutes before flying.

Want the perfect day plan?Checkout our planning guides.

View Planning Guides

Quick Information

Hours

Open8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Monday8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Tuesday8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Wednesday8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Thursday8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Friday8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Saturday8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Sunday8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Hours may change. Please call ahead to confirm before you visit.

Best Time to Visit08:00‑11:00, Mar–May & Sep–Oct for mild weather and calm air

ParkingFree parking at Grand Canyon National Park Airport terminal

What to BringBring a valid photo ID for each adult passenger.
Contact Information
AZ‑64, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, USA
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