If you’re planning to take a helicopter tour on Maui, you’re in for one of the most breathtaking experiences Hawaii has to offer. From towering sea cliffs and hidden waterfalls to dormant volcanoes and lush rainforests, Maui’s beauty is best seen from above.

But with so many tours available, how do you choose the best one? Here’s a quick breakdown of the most popular flight options, aircraft types, and how to find the perfect tour for your style and budget.

Panoramic aerial shot of Haleakalā Crater from a helicopter, showcasing volcanic terrain. — Panoramic aerial shot of Haleakalā Crater showcasing volcanic terrain.

🛩️ Hana & Haleakalā Tour (Air Maui)

Explore the scenic east side of Maui, including the famous Haleakalā Crater, tropical rainforest valleys, and remote waterfalls of Hana.

Tour Type: 45-minute aerial adventure
Highlights: Haleakalā Crater, waterfalls of Hana, rainforest valleys
Aircraft: A-Star (affordable, built for sightseeing)

👉 Learn more: Hana & Haleakala Tour

Open‑door helicopter soaring along lush coastal ridges for an exhilarating doors‑off experience.

🌊 West Maui & Molokai (Air Maui – Doors On or Doors Off)

This high-impact flight includes the lush West Maui Mountains and crosses the Pailolo Channel to witness Molokai’s legendary sea cliffs and waterfalls. Choose between a standard or doors-off experience.

Tour Type: 45-minute aerial adventure
Highlights: Wall of Tears, Papalaua Falls, tallest sea cliffs in the world
Aircraft: A-Star (Doors On) or Open-Door Helicopter (Doors Off)

👉 Doors-On Flight: Learn More
👉 Doors-Off Flight: Learn More

🌺 Complete Island Tour (Air Maui)

Can’t decide? This 60-minute experience covers both East and West Maui for the ultimate overview. You’ll see Haleakalā, Hana, the West Maui Mountains, and more.

Tour Type: 60-minute full island flight
Highlights: Hana Rainforest, Haleakalā Crater, West Maui Mountains
Aircraft: A-Star

👉 Learn More: Complete Island

⛰️ Maui Spectacular with Private Landing (Blue Hawaiian)

Take your flight to the next level with a 90-minute experience including a private landing at Ulupalakua Ranch and breathtaking views of both East and West Maui.

Tour Type: 90-minute premium experience
Highlights: Private landing, full island tour, luxury aircraft
Aircraft: Eco-Star (23% more cabin space, wraparound windows)

👉 Learn more: Private Landings

🚁 Understanding Aircraft Types

Not all helicopters are the same. Here’s how they compare:

A-Star: Comfortable and affordable. Great for sightseeing.
Eco-Star: 23% more interior room, wraparound glass, captain’s chairs—perfect for luxury and photography.
Doors-Off: Only available with Air Maui. No glass between you and the views for dramatic photos and videos.

💺 Front Seat Upgrades

Most helicopters seat 6 passengers. Seating is assigned by weight and balance, but some operators (like Air Maui and Blue Hawaiian) offer a front seat upgrade for an extra fee. This ensures unobstructed views with your pilot.