History

The Grand Canyon formed over millions of years. As it grew in age it began to be noticed by the early inhabitants of the region. As time continued on and the Canyon broke more ground, its impressive size and scenery was taking shape to be the natural wonder it is today. Before long the Canyon was seeing more and more people, explorers in particular, who began to ask just how far it went and what did it have to show. But anyone on foot or floating down the Colorado River could not completely answer those questions. Getting a birds-eye view would be the help that was needed to show just what the Canyon holds.

The pipeline providing water to the South Rim is where the Canyon’s relationship with helicopters begins. Elling Halvorson owned a construction company that specialized in projects located in high logistic remote areas. When the need arose for a pipeline needing to cross 13.5 miles of treacherous terrain, Halvorson’s team seemed best suited for the job, which won the bid to construct the new pipeline.

Though not expected to be an easy job, laying the pipe would require pioneering methods to ensure its completion. Halvorson decided to utilize helicopters to the lower the pipe over a vertical mile into the Canyon. Each day that workers and guests would fly to the project, the majestic scenery was so captivating they began requesting chartered helicopter flights. In 1965 helicopter tours of the Canyon began.

Grand Canyon Helicopters (GCH) keeps the tradition of helicopter expeditions alive today. And the people still love it. Aboard any of GCH’s fleet, visitors will be lifted vertically off the ground, hover motionless in the air, and then ride in the sky with gentle ease.  Priding itself on comfort and safety, GCH equips itself with the highest standard of helicopter and the most qualified “top flight” pilots who logged thousands of hours in flying time, ensuring visitors that they need only relax and enjoy the view. 

Being one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Canyon is a protected environment. GCH’s pilots are trained to fly all areas of the Canyon in an environmentally conscientious way, leaving the Canyon in its original, pristine condition for millions of future visitors.  All pilots are trained in accordance with guidelines laid out by the Federal Aviation Administration’s Part 135 requirements, which is specific for sightseeing operators. Additionally on our Grand Canyon and South Rim helicopter tours , GCH employs the Eco Star helicopter, one of the most technologically advanced helicopters, as well as one of the most environmentally sensitive.

GCH is proud to be able to present the Grand Canyon to the millions of visitors who tour the southwest each year. As one of the world’s most popular destination, the Canyon stands as a reminder of how the planet and civilization has grown. Through the variety of tours GCH offers, visitors can see what they want of this ancient work of nature and feel that they’ve gained a sense of history.  Climb aboard for a whirl.