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Guide to helicopter rides on bad weather days
If you are thinking about booking a helicopter tour, you need to be prepared for bad weather. Heavy rain, snow, and hail reduce visibility, and can also form ice on the rotor blades. A helicopter tour can last up to two hours or longer, depending on the time of day and weather conditions. However, if the weather is very bad, the pilot may not be able to fly safely. Luckily, there are several options that can make sure your tour is still a success.
Ice forms on rotor blades
While ice can be a nuisance, ice formed on helicopter rotor blades can be disastrous. This can occur when ice forms on the main or tail rotors. The blades on the tail rotors move faster than the rest of the helicopter and are exposed to many more drops per second. Moreover, they are more sensitive to ice buildup than the rest of the helicopter.
Helicopters are not equipped with anti-icing equipment, so ice on rotor blades can lead to catastrophic damage. Consequently, it is advisable to avoid helicopters flying in bad weather day if possible. In addition, ice can cause damage to the interior and exterior of the helicopter.
Helicopter tours can last more than two hours
When booking a helicopter tour, be sure to check the weather and flight times. In case of bad weather, a tour may be cancelled. However, most companies will accommodate passengers on rescheduled dates or offer other options. Helicopter tours are not recommended on rainy or snowy days.
Even if a flight is scheduled for two hours on a day with clear weather, it is best to plan for that time period, as bad weather can delay flights for hours or even days. Make sure to check the real-time weather calendar to ensure your helicopter tour goes ahead as planned.
Choosing a helicopter tour for a bad weather day
When it comes to choosing a helicopter tour on a bad weather day, you have a few options. Helicopters can carry up to 4 people with doors on or off. The doors-off version will carry two passengers in the front and two in the back of the helicopter. This type of helicopter will be exposed to the elements but is still a great way to see the countryside.
When choosing a helicopter ride, check the visibility and cloud height before you book. Helicopters are much more agile than small planes, which makes them ideal for aerial viewing. This flexibility gives passengers the chance to pace their sightseeing while taking great photos of their surroundings. In contrast, fixed-wing aeroplanes require a runway to land and take off.
Getting on a helicopter tour in a morning
Helicopter tours can be very scenic, especially when you have a clear view of the surroundings. However, bad weather can make it difficult to fly, and you will want to wear appropriate clothing for the weather. In addition, you should wear sturdy footwear that won’t slip and doesn’t have high heels. Also, keep in mind that getting in and out of the helicopter can be a challenge.
Helicopter tours are available year-round on the islands of Hawaii, but mornings and evenings are the best times to fly. This is because the weather is calmer early in the morning than it is later in the day, so you’ll have better visibility.
Getting on a helicopter tour in a snowstorm
While most helicopter companies are open all year round, winter weather can hamper flight days. However, there are still some advantages to booking a helicopter tour in the winter. Helicopters fly better during the winter months because the cold, dense air makes for a better flying environment. This means that winter helicopter tours are still a wonderful way to see the landscape and enjoy the perks of an aerial view.
First and foremost, make sure you dress appropriately. You should avoid tight-fitting clothes, as they can restrict your movement in the helicopter. Instead, you should wear warm, insulated clothing. Also, avoid wearing long hair, since it could get caught in the wind and hinder your view. Another important tip is to choose a different colour than the rest of your outfit.
