Helicopter Tour Prices in Maui (2025 Edition)
Taking a helicopter tour in Maui remains one of the most thrilling and unforgettable ways to experience the islandβs dramatic natural beauty. From soaring over the HaleakalΔ Crater to gliding alongside Molokaiβs towering sea cliffs, nothing compares to the aerial perspective a helicopter offers.
If youβre wondering, βHow much does a helicopter tour cost in Maui?ββyouβre not alone. Pricing for Maui helicopter tours typically ranges from $290 and up for base fare. After taxes and mandatory fuel surcharges, most guests pay between $321 and up.
πΆ Childrenβs Pricing: Helicopter tours in Maui do not offer child rates, but infants under 24 months fly free when seated on an adultβs lap.
π©οΈ Why Do Maui Helicopter Tour Prices Vary?
A few key factors impact the final cost of your flight:
1. Type of Helicopter
There are three main aircraft types used for Maui tours:
A-Star β The industry standard. Comfortable and scenic with panoramic windows. Great value.
Eco-Star β A roomier, quieter upgrade with 23% more cabin space, wraparound glass, and captain-style seating. Eco-Star tours cost more due to the premium experience.
Doors-Off A-Star β Exclusively flown by Air Maui, this open-air adventure is only available on the West Maui & Molokai 45-minute tour. Offers an adrenaline-filled, unobstructed view of waterfalls, sea cliffs, and valleys.
2. Flight Duration
Longer flights = higher cost. Here are the most common durations:
45 minutes β Perfect for quick scenic highlights like West Maui & Molokai.
55 minutes β Ideal for routes that include HaleakalΔ and the Hana Rainforest.
65β75 minutes β Extended routes often include multiple islands or private landings (like the Blue Hawaiian Maui Spectacular).
3. Landing Tours
Some premium tours include a landing segment, often in remote rainforest valleys or private estates. These landings enhance the experience but add to the price. For example:
Hana Rainforest Experience by Maverick Helicopters includes a 30-minute rainforest landing and champagne toast.
Maui Molokai Spectacular by Blue Hawaiian includes a scenic mountaintop landing with HaleakalΔ views.
β° When Should I Book My Helicopter Tour?
Morning flights (especially 8:00β10:00 AM) offer the clearest weather, especially for HaleakalΔ.
Tours sell out fast, so advance booking is highly recommendedβespecially for peak travel seasons like summer and holidays.
Afternoon flights may experience more cloud cover, particularly over mountain terrain.
πΈ Tips to Maximize Your Tour
Wear dark clothing to reduce glare in photos taken through helicopter windows.
Seating is assigned by weight and balance, not by preference. Some companies allow front seat upgrades for a feeβworth it for the extra views and legroom.
Weight Limits:
A-Star: ~240 lbs before a comfort seat is required
Eco-Star: ~240β300 lbs (varies by company)
Comfort seat charges range from 50% to 100% of the fare depending on your tour operator.
βοΈ Which Tour Is Right for You?
If you're looking for:
Most Affordable:
β West Maui & Molokai (45 min) β Doors On or Doors Off options available.Most Scenic:
β Hana & HaleakalΔ (55 min) β Lush rainforest, crater views, and coastline.Most Immersive:
β Hana Rainforest Experience (75 min) β Includes landing in remote rainforest.Most Luxurious:
β Maui Spectacular (Blue Hawaiian) β Extended air time + private mountain landing.
π« All Flights Depart From:
Kahului Heliport (OGG Airport area)
π Lelepio Pl., Kahului, HI 96732
βοΈ Free parking available
Β· It can be confusing deciding which flight and aircraft to choose that meets your desires and your budget. Need help deciding? Give us a call! Our local concierge has experience all of the Maui helicopter tours first hand and are happy to help you choose the right trip for you.