Greece, land of golden islands, vibrant culture, and rugged coastlines, is a luxury traveler’s paradise. Whether island-hopping among the Cyclades, retreating to the peaceful Ionian islands, or traveling to a secluded resort, a Greek helicopter charter is the quickest and most comfortable way to arrive.
As private helicopter flights and bespoke experiences are increasingly in demand, helicopter charters have emerged as the preferred method of navigating Greece’s ever-changing landscape and dispersed islands in style and comfort. Yet, if you wish to fly during peak season, there is one golden rule: reserve your helicopter charter well ahead of time.
Our charter team explains why early booking is so important, the advantages of it, what types of helicopters you can expect, and the most sought-after charter routes from Athens.
Peak season demand
Greece’s high season extends from June to September and is visited by millions of travelers from around the world. The popularity of sun-kissed beaches, high-end resorts, and lively island nightlife means that the most well-known places such as Mykonos, Santorini, and Paros are inundated with visitors.
For helicopter charters, this surge in demand translates to:
- Finite supply: Charter firms operate a limited fleet. As summer draws near and peak season and prime routes fill up very rapidly.
- Last-minute price increases: Reserving a charter near your travel date can result in enormous price increases because of limited space.
- Risk of cancellations: Without advance booking, there is a possibility of not getting a helicopter at all, particularly on weekends and holidays.
By pre-booking, you can obtain the day and time of your preference, avoid unnecessary stress, and have a flawless luxury experience.
Flexible scheduling and weather considerations
Though Greece enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine annually, helicopter flights remain weather and air traffic dependent. Booking in advance provides greater flexibility in the event of:
- Unforeseen weather: Windy days, particularly in islands such as Mykonos or Santorini, can postpone or divert flights.
- Operational delays: During peak hours or airspace congestion, scheduled charters may require adjustments.
Advance booking provides space to make alterations to the itinerary, reschedule when necessary, or swap between accessible helicopter types and time. Having the ability to easily reschedule with an operator is a huge benefit during the unpredictable periods of summer.
Greater availability of various types of helicopters
By booking in advance, you not only ensure availability – you also get to choose from a larger selection of helicopters to suit your requirements, number in your party, and comfort.
In Greece, Icarus Jet can provide access to the following helicopters:
- Robinson R66 – Appropriate for short flights with a maximum of 4 passengers
- Airbus ACH 125 – Single-engine model, most ideal for sightseeing and medium-range trips
- Bell 407 – Spacious cabin and smooth ride
- EC130 – New and spacious, commonly used for private island-hopping
- EC120B – Small and powerful, ideal for solo or couple travelers
- Agusta 109C & 109 Power – Twin-engine luxury helicopters with improved performance
- AW109SP – High-speed, twin-engine aircraft perfect for longer flights and VIP flights
- Airbus ACH 135 – Quiet, stable, and highly regarded in the executive market
- AS355 – Twin-engine variant with a compromise between performance and cost
Regardless of whether you are booking a quick jump or a high-end cross-country flight, booking early ensures that you get the perfect helicopter to take your journey.
Most popular helicopter charter routes from Athens
Athens is a main hub for private aviation and helicopter charters in Greece. Many tourists prefer flying to their island from Athens rather than going on long ferry rides or scheduled flights.
The following are some of the most traveled routes, flight times, and approximate charter rates (one-way single engine private helicopter flights):
- Athens – Naxos: USD5800 (FT 50min)
- Athens – Santorini: USD5100 (FT 1hr 10min)
- Athens – Mykonos: USD3350 (FT 50min)
- Athens – Amanzoe hotel: USD2900 (45min)
- Athens – Patmos: USD5350 (1hr 15min)
- Athens – Corfu: USD11500 (FT 2hrs)
- Athens – Paros: USD3600 (FT 50min)
- Athens – Heraklion: USD8200 (FT 1hr and 30min)
- Athens – Rhodes: USD6800 (FT 2hrs)
These charter flights are a time-saving alternative in your vacation and also give you breathtaking aerial views of the seascapes and landscapes of Greece.
Greece helicopter charter tips for booking
To get the most out of your charter:
- Book 1–3 months in advance for summer travel (especially July–August).
- Allow flexibility on time windows to prevent delays caused by weather or traffic.
- Select the appropriate helicopter depending on baggage requirements, passenger count, and range.
- Partner with a reliable company who provides 24/7 support and real-time flight monitoring.
- Check departure locations with your charter team – Athens has several helipads and airports; a few hotels even possess private helipads.
Ready to hire your own helicopter in Greece?
From luxury island hopping to VIP hotel transfers, helicopter charter in Greece is the ultimate in style, convenience, and luxury. Whether your trip is for leisure, business, or romance, booking early guarantees you get to experience the best of private flying during Greece’s legendary summer season.
Don’t wait until the last minute. Book in advance, travel privately, and view Greece from the air.
FAQs
1. How much in advance should I reserve a helicopter charter in Greece?
Ideally, 1 to 3 months before summer vacations. Advance booking ensures helicopter availability, preferred departure times, and better rates in peak season.
2. Is it possible to charter a helicopter directly to my villa or hotel?
Yes, if the property has a licensed helipad. The Amanzoe resort and most of the luxury hotels in Greece or within Mykonos and Santorini typically provide direct helipad access.
3. What if the weather is bad on the day of the flight?
In case of poor weather, charter firms will postpone the flight or arrange an alternative mode of transport. Booking in advance gives you greater flexibility to rebook within your holiday period.
4. What is the seat capacity of a private helicopter in Greece?
The majority of helicopters accommodate 4 to 6 passengers. Larger, twin-engine helicopters can carry up to 8 passengers, depending on the aircraft and destination.
5. Are there luggage limitations on helicopter charters?
Yes, baggage space is limited and varies by helicopter type. Soft-sided luggage is preferable. Always confirm weight limitations when booking.
