Shanghai Helicopter Sightseeing Privately Arranged Flight

Traveling to Shanghai and craving a truly memorable way to see the city? A private helicopter sightseeing tour promises an unforgettable aerial perspective of this bustling metropolis. While this experience doesn’t include the helicopter flight fees, it offers a well-organized transport and coordination service that can make your sky-high dreams come true.

We’re here to share all the details—what you can expect, the pros and cons, and whether it’s worth splurging on for your trip. From flexible flight options to professional pilots and stunning photo opportunities, this tour could be a highlight of your visit, especially if you’re in town for a layover, a special occasion, or simply want to see Shanghai in a way few get to experience.

What we really like? The clarity of the flexible flight options, the convenience of hotel or airport pick-up, and the chance to capture panoramic views of Shanghai’s iconic skyline. However, managing expectations about the actual helicopter costs and scheduling is important, as weather and minimum passenger numbers can affect your plans. This experience suits adventurous travelers, photo enthusiasts, or those celebrating a special moment who want a high-end, private view of the city.

Key Points

• Flexible flight options allow you to choose between short city center flights, night views, or even fireworks shows.
• Transportation and coordination are included, making the experience smooth and hassle-free.
• Helicopter flight fees are separate, so budget accordingly and confirm availability in advance.
• Professional pilots and safety-certified aircraft ensure peace of mind during your aerial adventure.
• Great for short layovers or special occasions, offering a unique perspective of Shanghai’s skyline.
• Weather conditions may impact schedules, so flexibility and communication are vital.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This helicopter sightseeing tour in Shanghai is designed to offer a high-flying view of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. It’s a package that combines transportation, interpretation, and coordination services, but notably excludes the actual flight costs, which are paid directly to the helicopter operator. That means you’ll want to factor in the additional fees, ranging from RMB 10,000 for a short Disneyland fireworks flight to RMB 50,000 for a 30-minute city center to Disneyland trip.

The overall experience lasts about 3.5 to 4.5 hours, including pickup, safety briefing, and the flight itself. It’s tailored for small groups or private bookings—perfect if you prefer an intimate, personalized experience. The tour begins with a comfortable transfer from your hotel or the airport, where a guide or coordinator will meet you, often holding a sign with your name.

Once at the helicopter base, you’ll receive a safety briefing from professional, safety-certified pilots before boarding your helicopter. The aircraft are equipped to ensure a safe, smooth flight, with options that include short iconic city center flights, scenic night rides, or even around Disneyland during fireworks. This flexibility is a significant plus, allowing you to customize your adventure based on your interests and schedule.

What the Flights Entail

Private or Shared Flights

The private chartered options are the star of this experience. For a 6-seat helicopter, you can choose between an 8-minute flight for RMB 18,000, or a 15-minute tour costing RMB 24,000. These rides typically take you over the city center, offering views of the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower. The nighttime flights are especially popular for their stunning city lights, with a 15-minute night flight costing RMB 29,000.

There’s also a special 30-minute flight during the Disneyland fireworks show, which is quite popular, costing RMB 50,000. It includes flying around Disneyland and capturing the fireworks from above—an experience that’s both exciting and photogenic. For smaller groups, there’s a 4-seat helicopter option, which is more affordable at RMB 10,000 for a 15-minute flight, specifically around Disneyland during the fireworks.

Shared Flight Option

For those traveling solo or in a small group, the shared flight is a budget-friendly choice. Priced at RMB 1,980 per person, it lasts around 17 minutes and offers a fly along the Huangpu River route during the day. You’d need at least three people, but the company and scheduling are handled with the hope of gathering enough travelers for a shared experience.

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Booking and Scheduling

The flexibility of scheduling is a big selling point. Flights are available during the day, and the tour operator offers advance booking with the option to pay later, which is handy if your plans are still fluid. However, weather conditions can impact schedules, as pilots prioritize safety, so a bit of patience and communication is necessary.

The Logistics: Pick-ups, Safety, and Duration

The experience begins with hotel or airport pick-up, often with a guide holding a sign for easy identification. The transfer is smooth and stress-free, allowing you to focus on the adventure ahead. After a brief safety briefing, you’ll board your helicopter—an experience that many reviews say is surprisingly comfortable and well-organized.

The total experience length is approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours, which includes travel, briefing, and the flight. This makes it a great option for a short stay or a layover, as you get a taste of the city’s skyline without committing a full day.

Note: There are weight restrictions—passengers over 100 kg (220 lbs) cannot fly, and children under 1 year old are not allowed. It’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing and avoid loose items for safety and comfort.

The Pilot and Safety Standards

You’ll be in the hands of professional, safety-certified pilots who are experienced in navigating Shanghai’s skies. The aircraft are maintained to safety standards, providing reassurance that your sky-high adventure is both secure and enjoyable. While the specific pilot’s name isn’t provided, reviews mention the guides as knowledgeable, offering insights during the flight, which enhances the overall experience.

Pricing Analysis: Is It Worth It?

While the helicopter flight costs are not included in the initial booking, the added expense can be significant—ranging from RMB 10,000 to RMB 50,000. For many travelers, especially those looking for a luxurious, private experience or a special gift, this can be justified by the once-in-a-lifetime views and professional service.

Comparing this to other city sightseeing options, the fact that you get hotel or airport pickup, safety briefing, and flexible scheduling adds value, especially if you’re pressed for time. The shared flights are a more affordable entry point, but they’re limited to daytime and may involve more coordination.

In essence, if you value privacy and customization, and want to capture stunning aerial photos, the price can be seen as an investment in a memorable, high-end experience.

What Reviewers Say

One review from October 2025 highlights the importance of effective communication and customer service, which was lacking in that instance, as the reviewer never received a response and struggled with refund issues. This points to the importance of confirming arrangements well in advance and maintaining clear contact with the tour operator.

Other reviews, though limited, suggest that the views from the helicopter are breathtaking, and the experience is highly photogenic, especially at night or during fireworks. The knowledge of the guides and pilots, combined with the professional aircraft, makes for a smooth and reassuring adventure.

Who is This Experience Best For?

This helicopter tour is ideal for travelers seeking a unique, luxurious perspective of Shanghai—perfect for special occasions, romantic outings, or those with a helicopter bug. It’s also a fantastic option for short stays or layovers, giving a swift yet spectacular overview of the city’s skyline.

However, it’s not suitable for people with mobility issues, those afraid of heights, or travelers over 220 lbs. Weather-dependent schedules also mean you should have some flexibility in your plans.

For photographers and skyline enthusiasts, this is an opportunity to capture Shanghai’s most iconic sights from an angle few get to see. Those looking for a more budget-friendly, time-efficient sightseeing option might prefer river cruises or city buses instead.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the Shanghai Helicopter Sightseeing Tour offers a luxurious, private way to see the city from above. With flexible flight options, professional pilots, and seamless transportation, it’s a memorable add-on for a special day in Shanghai. While the costs for the flight itself can add up, the experience’s exclusivity and stunning vistas often justify the price—especially if you’re celebrating or want to share a truly unique moment.

Those with a sense of adventure, a camera ready to capture the skyline, and a desire for a high-end experience will find this tour worth considering. Just keep in mind the weather, minimum passenger requirements, and additional costs when planning.

If you’re looking for an extraordinary view of Shanghai that combines comfort, customization, and a touch of luxury, this helicopter tour could easily become a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

How long does the entire experience last? The total duration, including pickup, briefing, and flight, is approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours.

Are the helicopter flights private or shared? You can choose between private chartered flights and shared flights, with the private options offering more flexibility and exclusivity.

What is the cost of the helicopter flight? Flight prices range from RMB 10,000 for a 15-minute Disneyland fireworks ride to RMB 50,000 for a 30-minute city center to Disneyland flight, paid directly to the helicopter operator.

Is transportation included? Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel or the airport are included, making it a smooth experience.

Can I book a flight during the night? Yes, nighttime flights are available, offering spectacular views of the city lights and the iconic skyline.

What are the weight restrictions? Passengers over 100 kg (220 lbs) are not allowed to fly, and children under 1 year old cannot participate.

What should I wear or bring? Wear comfortable clothing, and don’t forget your passport. Loose items should be secured for safety.

What happens if the weather is bad? Flights may be canceled or rescheduled to prioritize safety; flexibility and advance communication are advised.

To sum it up, this helicopter sightseeing tour in Shanghai offers a blend of luxury, breathtaking views, and convenience. Perfect for those wanting a memorable, high-end perspective of the city—just be sure to plan ahead and confirm all details to maximize your sky-high adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: