FAQ

 
 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes! All our tours and charters are private.

  • Yes, each adult must have a photo ID, driver’s license with picture or passport.

    The card used and matching ID do need to be presented at the reservation. Please contact us for more information.

  • Your parent or guardian must be present to sign a consent form if you are under 18.

    Doors ON flights: children under the age of 2 may fly as a lap child. All children 2 years and older must purchase a seat in order to fly.

    Doors off flights: All passengers must be over the age of 18.

    Everyone who flies must demonstrate that they are able to physically adhere to our safety instructions.

  • Yes, per the manufacturer’s guidelines, passengers who exceed 300 pounds will be unable to fly. Due to weight & balance, any passenger over 300 pounds at the time of the flight will not receive a refund.

    Cockpit dimensions and flight control movement will also need to be taken into account. A high step is required for boarding.

    Everyone who flies must demonstrate that they are able to physically adhere to our safety instructions.

  • At Specialized Aviation, safety is our number one priority. If the weather on the day of your flight is questionable, we will make a Go or No Go call one (1) hour prior to scheduled departure time. Please check your email frequently for updates on the day of your flight and make sure to provide a day of contact number on your order.

    Special requests for more notice are welcome.

  • Of course! Purses and camera bags are allowed, but they are subject to search. For doors off flight all cameras and phones need to have a strap or way to be attached to your person.

    We do not allow any big bags or backpacks.

  • It’s all about layers! Layers provide extra protection from the elements. The helicopter does have heat and air conditioning for your comfort.

    Summer Flights: We recommend wearing comfortable, weather appropriate clothing.

    Winter Flights: You should prepare for extra warmth.

    Doors off: Wear pants or shorts for maximum comfort in our harnesses. Keep in mind that it will be very windy – loose clothing is not encouraged. Note that only tightly laced or strapped shoes are permitted – no slip-ons or flip flops. Sunglasses and hats with bills are discouraged.

    For winter doors off flights, dress like you’re skiing. Infinity scarves are highly recommended as well as gloves, warm socks and beanies. Wind chill factors from the moving helicopter require more protection.

  • Bring a valid photo ID (Driver’s License, State ID, or Passport) & what you’d like to take photos with!

    What camera gear should I bring? We recommend you bring what you’re comfortable with shooting. Iphones are great!

    Your lens and camera of course depends on what you’re looking to capture.

    If you wish to capture pictures of yourself and your friends we recommend a wider lens such as a 16-35. However, if you’re looking to capture a mix of each other and pics around you we recommend a 24-70 lens. If you’re looking to capture details of buildings and scenery around you we recommend a 70-200.

    Lens filters, hoods, and lens changes are not allowed so you should always bring a camera body and lens which fits your desired pictures.

  • Where do YOU want to go? We tailor the flight to the sites and views you and your copter-mates want to see. We do not have set routes. You’ll be able to discuss your image requests with the pilot during your safety briefing. The SF Experiences are focused on downtown and the bay area, while the Monterey experiences let you see the natural beauty of the coast line.

    With an hour in the air, the Photo Flights can cover the most iconic landmarks from different angels in one flight. The options are limitless!

  • All cancellations will receive a 10% booking fee. Cancellations within 72-hours receive a 25% cancelation fee and there are no refunds for late arrivals, no-shows or clients who arrive over the weight limit.

    Call us at 831-763-2244 if you need to cancel or reschedule.

  • We are open 7 days a week and are only closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

  • Visit our Group Pricing page here or call our Sales and Marketing office at 831-763-2244.

  • All San Francisco Tours are out of the Hayward Meridian Airport at:

    1 Tuskegee Airman Dr.

    Hayward, CA 954545

    All Monterey Bay flights are out of the Watsonville Airport at:

    150 Aviation Way

    Watsonville, CA 95076

    For pick ups scheduled out of Monterey please go to Del Monte Aviation at:

    100 Sky Park Dr

    Monterey, CA 93940

  • Absolutely! Just give us a call for pricing and availability.

  • Uber or Lyft are the best form of transportation as we do not provide a shuttle service.

  • We can not land anywhere other than designated airports.

    With permission and safety reconnaissance, we could land at privately owned properties with a 100’x100’ clearance.

  • San Carlos is the closest airport we service to the down town area. It is the best option for conserving time and money and is only a short Uber ride from SFO.

  • We do! Please call the front office to inquire. 831-763-2244