Helicopter Flying Travel Insurance
Helicopter flying—whether it’s a scenic tour, recreational co-pilot ride, or adventure landing on glaciers and mountains—is one of the most thrilling air experiences. However, helicopter activities involve an elevated level of risk due to engine failures, weather turbulence, challenging landings, and mechanical issues.
Most standard travel insurance plans do NOT cover helicopter flying because it is considered a high-risk or extreme sport. This makes specialized helicopter flying insurance essential for anyone participating in scenic rides, private flying experiences, or adventure helicopter excursions.
With the help of American Visitor Insurance, travelers can compare multiple adventure sports insurance plans and find the right policy that provides full medical and evacuation coverage for helicopter flying.
What Are the Best Visitor Insurance Plans for Helicopter Flying in the USA?
Travelers planning to enjoy Helicopter Flying in the USA should choose a travel medical insurance plan that specifically covers air-activity and adventure sports. The best Helicopter Flying travel insurance options for visitors to the USA include Diplomat America and Diplomat Long Term, all available through American Visitor Insurance. These plans offer strong medical coverage and optional sports riders designed for high-risk activities like Helicopter Flying.
Diplomat Long Term
Global Underwriters
- Diplomat Longterm offers an optional Athletic & Hazardous Activity Rider for adventure coverage.
- Provides medical coverage for eligible injuries related to covered adventure activities.
- Diplomat Long Term Travel Insurance is a Helicopter Flying option. For a 35-year-old on a 3-month trip, the plan costs $483 ($500,000 maximum, $250 deductible). With adventure sports coverage it raises to $677.
Diplomat America
Global Underwriters
- Diplomat America offers an optional Athletic & Hazardous Activity Rider for adventure coverage.
- Benefits apply according to plan-specific limits under the rider.
- Diplomat America Plus is a strong choice for Helicopter Flying coverage. For a 35-year-old, the standard plan starts at $95/month ($50,000 maximum, $250 deductible), and with adventure sports coverage it increases to $168/month.
Why You Need Helicopter Flying Insurance?
Helicopter flights take place in unpredictable environments—high altitudes, mountainous terrain, glaciers, coastal regions, and valleys. Unexpected weather, rough landings, or engine issues can result in accidents that lead to high medical costs, evacuation expenses, and emergency rescues.
Having helicopter flying insurance ensures that you are financially protected in case of an injury or evacuation. Whether you are flying as a passenger or participating in a guided adventure flight, specialized insurance is the only way to cover the risks involved.
Benefits of Helicopter Flying Travel Insurance
- Coverage for injuries caused by helicopters under- Emergency Medical Cover.
- Coverage for inpatients and ICU surgeries, as well as out-patient care from an Emergency Medical Service or Ground Ambulance.
- Transport by helicopter and on-ground ambulance to receive hospital care if considered remote or difficult to access.
- Accidental death & dismemberment coverage is included.
- Trip cancellation/interruption coverage (on certain plans)
- Available 24/7 to assist with your travel needs.
⚠️ What are the risks Involved in flying in a helicopter?
Helicopter flying, when done correctly, can be safe; however, the following risks are inherent with the flying experience:
- Mechanical failures such as: Engine failure, Rotor (or transmission) failure, Instrument failure
- Weather-related risks such as: Turbulence, Wind shear, Fog/low visibility
- Hard or Emergency Landings: Landing gear damage, Impact injuries, Fractures or sprains
- Terrain-related hazards, including: Collisions with mountains, cliffs, trees, Glacier/ice landings, Coastal water landings
- Remote Rescue Challenges: Evacuation from secluded areas, Need for specialized rescue teams
🛡️ What Does Helicopter Flying Insurance Cover?
Medical expenses related to accidents while traveling
- Emergency medical evacuations
- Inpatient hospitalizations
- Intensive care units
- Ground ambulances
- Repatriation of deceased remains
- Search and rescue services available with specific trip insurance plans
- Trip interruptions due to injury incurred during the flying experience
✅ What Is Not Covered?
- Flying While Intoxicated
- Participating in helicopter flying as a professional pilot unless covered
- Attempts to Break Records and Competitive Aviation
- Reckless or Illegal Behavior
- Flying without a Licensed Pilot for a Scenic or Recreational Flight
🌍 Who Should Buy Helicopter Flying Insurance?
- Helicopter Flying Tourism by International Visitors
- Helicopter Flying Tours for Travelers Participating in Glacier Landings, Mountain Flights, or Volcano Tours
- Recreational Flying by Adventure Seekers
- First-time Flying Passengers on Helicopters
- Experienced Hobby Pilots Flying for Pleasure
- Traveling to Extreme Environments (Alaska, New Zealand, Iceland and Nepal)
🌍 Best Destinations for Helicopter Flying
- New Zealand (Queenstown, Franz Josef)
- Alaska, USA (glacier landings, wildlife tours)
- Nepal (Everest Base Camp helicopter tours)
- Iceland (volcano & glacier flights)
- Switzerland (mountain panoramas)
- Hawaii, USA (volcano and coastline tours)
Helicopter flights in these regions often happen in extreme or unpredictable conditions, making helicopter flying insurance essential.
Have Questions?
Need help understanding your policy?
Our Customer Service team is available 24x7, putting your needs first every step of the way.
❓ Helicopter Flying Insurance FAQs
1. Do standard travel insurance plans cover flying in helicopters?
Most standard travel insurance plans do not include coverage for high-risk/extreme air activities like flying in helicopters. Therefore, you will require helicopter flying insurance.
2. Does helicopter flying insurance include emergency evacuation?
Yes, many insurance plans cover emergency rescues/evacuations from remote and mountainous locations.
3. Can I purchase helicopter travel insurance if I am a beginner or flying for the first time?
Yes. If you are flying recreationally, and the flight is being operated by a licensed, certified pilot, you are covered.
4. Does helicopter flying insurance cover mechanical failures?
Yes, if you are injured in a helicopter crash or accident caused by mechanical failure, you will be provided medical benefits.
5. Is it possible to get helicopter flying insurance while I am traveling?
Many adventure sports insurance policies will allow you to purchase helicopter flying insurance while you are traveling.
6. Is flying in helicopters considered an extreme sport?
Yes, flying in helicopters is considered an extreme sport due to the high probability of mechanical failure, as well as altitude and weather risks.
7. Are scenic helicopter rides covered under helicopter flying insurance?
Yes, scenic helicopter flights are typically covered under most helicopter flying insurance policies, as long as they are not for profit.
8. Who should get helicopter flying insurance?
Anyone planning to go on a helicopter tour or take part in any recreational activity involving a helicopter should consider purchasing helicopter flying insurance.
⭐ Why Buy Helicopter Flying Insurance From American Visitor Insurance
- Instantly compare multiple helicopter flying insurance and adventure sports insurance USA plans side-by-side.
- Trusted U.S. insurance marketplace with 20+ years of experience helping travelers find the right cover.
- Policies from reputable carriers that include emergency medical evacuation, search & rescue, and inpatient care.
- 24/7 global assistance for emergencies while flying or traveling in remote areas.
- Affordable premiums and flexible plan options for passengers, hobby pilots, and scenic-flight enthusiasts.
- Coverage options for worldwide travel — perfect for helicopter tours in Alaska, New Zealand, Iceland, Nepal, and beyond.
- Fast, secure online purchase and instant proof-of-coverage for tour operators or local authorities.
- Dedicated claims support and experienced customer service to help with evacuations, medical bills, and repatriation.
- Customizable add-ons (trip cancellation, baggage protection, accidental death & dismemberment) to suit your helicopter activity.
- Options for travelers of different ages and risk profiles — American Visitor Insurance can help locate policies that match pilot or passenger needs.
