Choosing a Helicopter for the Greek Islands
Greece is one of the world’s most coveted luxury holiday destinations in the world, renowned for its stunning islands, vibrant cultural legacy, and stunning coastlines. Helicopter charters offer a safe, comfortable, luxurious, and panoramic means of island-hopping without the inconvenience of lengthy ferry rides or congested airports. However, in choosing a helicopter charter, safety must be the dominant priority.
Reviewed by Kevin Singh, Founder · Fact-checked against Icarus Jet charter and operations data · Last updated 12 September 2026
The guide
This guide includes the safest helicopters for charter in Greece, flight durations and costs, and operational essentials for a hassle-free experience.
Why charter a helicopter in Greece?
Helicopter chartering in Greece has numerous benefits. It is the quickest mode of traveling from one island to another, taking much less time than ferries or connecting flights. Helicopter charters are also very private and comfortable, with luxurious facilities and personalized services to make the trip luxurious. The sightseeing from above is also unbeatable, with travelers having panoramic views of Greece’s shores, historical landmarks, and breathtaking scenery.
The second significant benefit is scheduling flexibility, where travelers can leave at their convenience and not be bound by rigid commercial airline timetables.
Safety-wise, twin-engine helicopters are the safest option as they offer extra redundancy in the event of an engine failure. Of the helicopters that can be chartered in Greece, the safest option available is the Airbus H135 because it features new avionics, a 4-axis autopilot, and better in-flight stability. Other helicopters that are very safe are the H125, EC130, and AW109SP, which all boast excellent safety records and are highly reliable.
Other helicopter charter options include the reliable Robinson R66, Airbus ACH 125 (H125), Bell 407, EC130, EC120B, Agusta 109C, Agusta 109 Power, AW109SP, Airbus ACH 135 (H135), and AS355. The majority of the helicopters are stationed in Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini and thus are accessible for most of the routes.
Why safety is important in helicopter charters
Safety is the most important factor when chartering a helicopter in Greece. The safest helicopters are twin-engine helicopters, which offer an extra measure of safety. The newest avionics, such as autopilot and digital navigation systems, also increase safety. Well-trained pilots are also required for safe flights, as pilots go through rigorous training and are governed by stringent aviation laws.
Regular maintenance and rigorous safety checks are also crucial to ensuring that all the helicopters are in top working condition.
For travelers who put safety first, the Airbus H135 is still the top option, but the H125, EC130, and AW109SP also offer top-notch safety amenities. Furthermore, chartering a helicopter with an experienced company like Icarus Jet will not only allow a safe flight, but a seamless all-around private aviation experience.
Helicopter charter rates and flight time from Athens
The following is a table of charter prices (on a single-engine helicopter) and flight durations from Athens to coveted Greek destinations:
| DESTINATION | PRICE (USD) | FLIGHT TIME |
| Naxos | USD 5,800 | 50 min |
| Santorini | USD 5,600 | 1 hr 10 min |
| Mykonos | USD 3,800 | 50 min |
| Amanzoe Hotel | USD 3,300 | 45 min |
| Patmos | USD 5,350 | 1 hr 15 min |
| Corfu | USD 11,500 | 2 hrs |
| Paros | USD 4,200 | 50 min |
| Heraklion | USD 8,200 | 1 hr 30 min |
| Rhodes | USD 6,800 | 2 hrs |
For flights from Athens, helicopters based in the country’s capital are utilized exclusively. Departure is carried out about 10 minutes after passengers arrive, and helicopters usually arrive at the helipad between 20 to 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.
For private jet and helicopter charters, the closest airports are Athens International Airport (ATH), the main entry point for private aviation. Mykonos Airport (JMK) is 159 km from Athens but not ideal for private jets because of a $3,000 private jet terminal fee. Chios Airport (JKH), 198 km from Athens, is the alternative.
Helicopter flights depart usually from a private helipad outside Athens International Airport, which is a 10-minute drive from the airport. The helipad to airport ground transfer may be organized with our charter team for a trouble-free experience.
In conclusion
A helicopter charter in Greece is the most ideal way to enjoy the beauty of the country while having safety, convenience, and luxury. Whether one goes to Mykonos, Santorini, or a private resort, the kind of helicopter model helps add to the overall safety of the trip and comfort. In terms of reliability and comfort, the Airbus H135 is the most suitable, although the H125, EC130, and AW109SP also have top-notch safety features.
Contact our dedicated charter team today and book your helicopter charter in Greece and enjoy the safest and most comfortable way of traveling in the beautiful Greek Isles.
Questions
Questions about choosing a helicopter
Airbus H125. The long-serving single engine workhorse, chosen for the islands because it handles heat, coastal wind and repeated short sectors. Its structure is designed to absorb impact energy, and the glass cockpit gives the crew a clearer picture in the hazy summer conditions common across the Cyclades.
Airbus H130. The wider-cabin option, seating up to seven. Its defining feature is the Fenestron, a tail rotor enclosed inside the tail boom, which removes the exposed tail rotor that causes a recognised share of ground accidents. It also runs quieter than an equivalent conventional design, which matters at island helipads close to hotels and villages, and carries redundant systems for the primary functions.
When comparing quotes, ask which type is actually being sent rather than which types the operator lists. Aircraft on the same operator certificate differ in cabin size, noise footprint and tail rotor design, and on a short island hop those differences are most of what the passenger experiences.
Which is the safest helicopter to hire in Greece?
The safest helicopter to charter in Greece is the Airbus H135. It is a twin-engine helicopter with modern avionics, a 4-axis autopilot, and an immaculate record for reliability. Some other secure models are the H125, EC130, and AW109SP.
What is the cost of a helicopter charter from Athens to Santorini?
The helicopter charter between Athens and Santorini is $5,100. The flight time is about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Is it possible to book a helicopter directly from Athens International Airport?
Helicopter charters do not take off from Athens International Airport but from a helipad that is 10 minutes away from there. The Icarus Jet team can arrange the helicopter transfer from/to Athen’s airport, but there will be an additional landing fee, and it depends on the slot’s approval. Land transfers from the airport to the helipad may also be prearranged for convenience.
How early should I arrive before my helicopter charter flight?
Passengers must reach the helipad a minimum of 10 minutes prior to departure. The helicopters are generally placed 20 to 30 minutes prior to the departure time to facilitate a timely and trouble-free departure.
What is the ideal means for sightseeing the Greek islands?
The ideal way of transport when island-hopping in Greece is a helicopter charter. It is the most convenient and quickest form of transport, providing luxury, efficiency, and breathtaking views from the air. Helicopter charters are especially useful for visitors who want to have a seamless and tailored experience.
What is a Fenestron and why does it matter?
An enclosed tail rotor, housed inside the tail boom rather than exposed. It removes a recognised source of ground accidents around a running helicopter, and it runs quieter, which matters at island helipads close to hotels and villages. The Airbus H130 is the common island type that has one.
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