Last time I was on a helicopter was 2005. It was a hot summer day in Baghdad, Iraq. I strapped on my vest, helmet, and carried my sea bag and stepped into a PUMA (a British Helicopter) for a short hop to my C-130 that would take me out of the combat zone. Needless to say, I was not focused on the sights below. Fast forward to 2015. On a hot summer day in Puerto Rico, I hopped on a helicopter and this time it was for fun. All about my Puerto Rico Helitours, a local company owned by Capt Carlos Benitez and his wife, Belkys Perez.
The scene: In pure Puerto Rican fashion, the scene was festive upon my arrival to the hangar. I arrived as one of the students of Benitez Aviation (Puerto Rico Helitours aviation school branch) had just completed his first solo flight. The newly minted pilot was there with his family and Capt Benitez arranged for a small ceremony in order to celebrate his accomplishment. This concluded with the traditional water bucket to the new pilot! Although I had just met everyone, I felt like I was already part of the team!
The Experience: When I first heard the tour was only five minutes I wondered what I can possibly see in such a short period of time. We hopped on the helicopter and Capt Benitez was quick to start sharing his “datos curiosos de la aviación” (interesting aviation facts). As we took off from Isla Grande Airport in San Juan, I was in constant amazement of the views I got to see from above.
It was a clear summer afternoon as we took off. First, we took in the views of El Condado Lagoon with views of the popular San Juan neighborhood. From there, we continued on to Old San Juan beginning with views of Castillo San Cristobal and El Capitolio of Puerto Rico. It was amazing to see these structures you grow up walking past from above. As we continue to fly, I got to see the tiny colorful homes of Old San Juan against the bright blue Atlantic Ocean. The most poignant view of the ride was El Morro. The helicopter stood there for a few seconds for us to take in a long look at this symbol of Puerto Rican pride and for those who live away, nostalgia.
Practical Information: Although my “Made in Puerto Rico” tour was only five minutes long, Puerto Rico Helitours offers longer flights covering other areas throughout the island to include other areas of the island. My tour cost $65 which I believe is a great price for such an unforgettable experience. I am already thinking of which tour I want to take when I return to the island!
The Verdict: Imagine your cool older brother and his wife owned a helicopter and you got to take a ride. That is how I felt on my tour with Puerto Rico Helitours. I saw their energy and generosity not only with me but with the other guests at the hangar. You truly get the feel of family with this locally-owned business. In a time where Puerto Rico gets bad press for their current government budget crisis, companies like these bring an air of positivity that the island currently needs. Have you taken a helicopter tour before? Where did you go? What did you think? Share with us!
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Disclaimer: I was hosted by the wonderful management of Puerto Rico Helitours but as always, opinions are my own.
Beautiful photos Jess!! I’ve seen promotions for heli tours in Miami – might have to give one of those a try now after reading about how much fun you had! 🙂
Thanks! Here’s an idea: let’s do a helitour of the 305 together in October!!!
Oooh that would be so much fun!! Let’s set up a Skype date soon and plot our South Florida takeover! 😉
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