After flying with larger operators, it was nice to be treated like ohana and not a number. We were promptly greeted even though we were early. We were seated on a comfortable patio and given a snack and water during our pre-flight talk. Helen have us and overview of the flight and some interesting information about Hawaiian history and legends. The pilot joined us with some additional information. Very casual and unrushed.
We took the full island two-hour tour of the Big Island which included the active volcano. Our pilot Jacob was very informative. There were three of us and we chartered their 66 copter (holds four passengers). This guaranteed each of us a window seat. The cost of this was just slightly more than the cost at the larger operators, but will worth it as I always get stuck in a rear center seat and fight got views the whole trip. Also, the flight wenta few minutes longer than the two hours we booked. At the big operators, their large copters usually stop for fuel in Hilo which cuts 15 mins off your flight time.
We'll always fly Mauna Loa over the big operators and we have them 5 Stars. Too things that are different, but not necessarily negatives: The headsets do not play music fitting the flight. Instead, you get to listen to all the chatter between copter pilots and ATC. We found it interesting. Second, some other copters record your flight and then sell you the recording. Take your camera and take the shots you want for free.
A big MAHALO to Jacob, Helen and the MLH crew for an awesome experience.
Response from Host
Jun 2018
Aloha Maggi Ohana!
Thank you so much for your wonderful review and kind words. It was an absolute pleasure meeting all of you; hope your dad really enjoyed his trip. Glad we could help check a list of the bucket list...seeing Lava and new earth being created is not something many people get to experience.
Jacob thanks you, he really had a great time flying with all of you.
Mahalo for joining us and we shall see you in the future.
Mahalo for your review!
The Mauna Loa Helicopters Tour Team