Helicopter operators in the UAE are exploring the potential of expanding inter-emirate services to assist residents in avoiding traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, as revealed to Khaleej Times on Thursday.
Falcon, a helicopter tour operator, is already facilitating passenger transfers between Dubai and Abu Dhabi through its 'city transfer' service. "The journey takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes by helicopter, significantly faster than by road," stated Hazel Anne Herradura, Sales Supervisor at Falcon Helicopter Tours. Typically, a road trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi during rush hours would take over an hour, whereas a helicopter flight from Dubai's Atlantis to the Marina Mall Heliport in Abu Dhabi's Corniche district takes just half an hour, according to Falcon's website.
However, this mode of transport comes at a premium. Falcon offers three city transfer packages. The first package, priced at Dh11,999, includes a one-way transfer between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The second package, at Dh13,999, features a round trip with a brief waiting period of one to three hours. For those requiring more flexibility, the third package costs Dh14,999 and offers a round trip with a longer waiting time of four to six hours. Falcon employs high-end helicopters for these services.
Mohamed Yaseen, General Manager at Skytech, concurs that there is a viable market for inter-emirate helicopter transfers. Skytech currently facilitates tourist flights between Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai, with transfers priced up to Dh650 and sightseeing flights up to Dh550. "With pilot training programs in place, individuals can eventually learn to fly themselves," he added. "Imagine being able to hop in a helicopter and explore the region as a hobby."
Another UAE-based company, Air Chateau International, recently unveiled plans to enhance inter-emirate private helicopter services, enabling passengers to travel from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah in under 30 minutes. The company has identified 20 potential helipad locations, with plans to finalize six to eight by year-end. Some will involve upgrading existing helipads, while others will be newly constructed.
With tour flights gaining popularity, Falcon Helicopter Tours welcomed 75,000 passengers in 2023 and aims to reach 90,000 this year. Herradura explained that they currently offer six different sightseeing experiences ranging from 12 to 60 minutes, with more options potentially on the horizon. "We're eager to introduce new routes as Dubai continues to evolve," she said.
One of Falcon's most sought-after tours is the 17-minute 'iconic tour,' which takes passengers from Atlantis The Palm, past the Burj Al Arab, and near the Burj Khalifa, showcasing every major landmark in Dubai from the sky. This tour is particularly popular for special occasions such as birthdays and proposals. "Many people celebrate special moments with us," Herradura noted, adding that the company offers a VIP terminal where customers can arrange surprises like flowers for proposals.
Waad Barakat, a Special Correspondent covering security topics, from law enforcement to local courts, brings a keen eye for human interest stories, blending them with unique Gen Z-inspired content.
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
