Go doors-off over Kauai on a Hughes 500 helicopter flight
50-55 minutes
Up to 4 people
Doors-off flight, Window seats
Take a 50–55 minute doors-off helicopter ride from Lihue Airport in a Hughes 500 with up to four guests and all window seats. Fly over Kauai landmarks including the Nā Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and Wai‘ale‘ale Crater.
Ages 10 and older. Guests over 240 lbs and parties of 2 with a combined weight over 400 lbs must book an additional seat. You must be able to climb three stairs to board (not wheelchair accessible).
Gratuity is not included. Phone cases and lanyards are required and available to rent or purchase for an extra charge ($5 rental or $10 purchase).
Routes and sites may vary due to weather.
Full refund with 48 hours notice of cancellation. Full refund if the operator cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. No-shows will be charged the full price.
Wear warm clothing, since the flight is doors-off. Wear appropriate footwear that secures around your ankle (preferably close-toed).
You can bring a phone only in an Airborne Aviation provided case and lanyard (available to rent for an extra charge or purchase for an extra charge: $5.00 USD to rent or $10.00 USD to buy). You can bring a GoPro only with an Airborne Aviation lanyard (no grips, wrist straps, chest mounts, or head mounts). You can bring DSLR and other larger cameras only with an Airborne Aviation provided lanyard and a secure hardpoint.
Do not bring selfie sticks, gimbal mounts, or any device without a secure hardpoint that can accept an Airborne Aviation lanyard. Do not wear any headwear other than glasses or sunglasses.
Lihue Airport, Kauai
The helicopter experience here has people genuinely gushing, with pilot names like Felipe, Wayne, Adam, Brian, and Mac repeatedly mentioned for their professionalism and personality. What stands out is how smoothly everything runs from start to finish. Check-in is described as seamless, safety briefings are thorough, and the staff creates a welcoming atmosphere that sets the tone before you even take off. Multiple reviewers mention this felt like one of the best experiences of their entire lives, which isn't something you hear casually. The doors-off option gets massive praise and seems to be the way most people choose to fly. Yes, it's windier and colder in the back seats (bring a jacket and skip the contacts), but reviewers say the unobstructed views and photo opportunities make it absolutely worth it. The pilots clearly know the island well, providing commentary throughout and positioning the helicopter for optimal viewing and pictures. Several people specifically mention how the aerial perspective reveals parts of Kauai you simply can't access by car or foot, making this feel essential rather than just a nice add-on to your trip.
Best experience of my life, staff was amazing everything about this experience was amazing. They do an excellent job going through the safety of the helicopter and NIYA especially went out of her way to make sure my wife had a great time and even did her braids! Thanks again to the awesome staff and our incredible pilot.
Mav Her
March 25, 2026
Best experience of my life, staff was amazing everything about this experience was amazing. They do an excellent job going through the safety of the helicopter and NIYA especially went out of her way to make sure my wife had a great time and even did her braids! Thanks again to the awesome staff and our incredible pilot.
Mav Her
March 25, 2026