5 Best Toronto Helicopter Tours & Flight Experiences in 2024

Are you looking to see Toronto from above? You’ve come to the right place, as the best Toronto helicopter tours and flights are all listed here!

How do I know these are the best? I’m a Toronto local, having lived here since 2018, and my favourite way to see the city is from above! Plus, I’ve vetted all these Toronto helicopter tours and flight experiences, including the reviews, so you can be sure they’re all highly rated.

As Canada’s biggest city and is home to several of Canada’s most iconic landmarks, such as the CN Tower, Casa Loma, and the Distillery District. While visiting these sites is a must during your time in Toronto, for an even more memorable sightseeing experience, it’s worth seeing the city from the sky.

Luckily, there are several fantastic aerial tours which you can take in Toronto, for a thrilling ride with unbeatable views. But with several different tours to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which one to do.

To help you out, I’ve narrowed down the top Toronto helicopter tours and plane rides for the best views of the city and beyond. So, read on for everything you need to know for a truly unforgettable aerial experience.

Top 5 Toronto Helicopter Tours & Flight Experiences

1. Toronto City Sightseeing Helicopter Tour

See the city skyline and all of Toronto’s key landmarks from above on this Toronto City Sightseeing Helicopter Tour!

⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Flight Time: 7 minutes | 💰 Check Rates & Availability

Why choose this tour? It’s the most highly rated Toronto helicopter tour and you’ll get to see all of Toronto’s key landmarks, the city skyline and beyond. Plus, it’s also the most budget-friendly helicopter tour on the list!

✅ 9 miles of aerial exploration
✅ Soar 2,000 feet (600 meters) above the ground
✅ Breathtaking views of Toronto and the surrounding region
✅ See iconic landmarks from above
✅ Admire the beautiful Lake Ontario waterfront
✅ Includes a digital photo and printed picture
✅ Various departure times available throughout the day
✅ Most budget-friendly Toronto helicopter tour
✅ Intimate flight with maximum 3 passengers

This stunning helicopter flight is the best way to see Toronto! Although the flight duration is only 7 minutes, given how much you get to see, it feels much longer! Plus, with a convenient downtown location, varied flight schedule, and professional and friendly staff, the entire experience on this tour is wonderful from start to end.

Not only will you get to enjoy a thrilling ride, but you’ll get spectacular views of all of Toronto’s key sites. This includes downtown Toronto, iconic landmarks like the CN Tower, Rogers Centre, Fort York and much more, as well as the beautiful Lake Ontario waterfront.

2. One hour Aerial Tour of Toronto and Niagara Falls

For a truly memorable flight experience and 5-star service, book this One Hour Aerial Tour of Toronto and Niagara Falls with iflyTOTO.

⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Flight Time: 57 Minutes | 💰 Check Rates & Availability

Why choose this tour? Out of all the tours on the list, this is the longest and most comprehensive aerial experience, offering unparalleled views of Toronto, Niagara Falls and the surrounding region. Plus, you’ll get a taste of luxury with a mid-air Champagne toast!

✅ One-hour flight over Toronto and Niagara Falls
✅ Unique experience in a small fixed-wing plane
✅ Birds-eye views of iconic Canadian landmarks
✅ See key Toronto sites like the CN Tower and Rogers Centre
✅ Marvel at the mighty Niagara Falls from 3,000 feet (914 meters)
✅ Sip on a glass of champagne in the air
✅ Plane can accommodate up to 8 passengers

While this isn’t a helicopter ride, the views from this small-plane aerial tour are just as spectacular, but with a little added comfort. You’ll get a taste of what it’s like to fly privately, with this fixed-wing plane seating up to just 8 passengers, for an exclusive flight experience.

And what makes this tour so memorable is that you don’t just get to enjoy aerial views of Toronto, but also of the mighty Niagara Falls, and everything in-between!

Although this is a small plane (so space is quite tight), it doesn’t compromise on comfort and every passenger will get unobstructed views from a window seat. Plus, for a true 5-star experience, you’ll get to celebrate with a Champagne toast in the sky.

3. 14-Minute Helicopter Tour Over Toronto

To explore more of the Greater Toronto Area by air, book this 14-Minute Helicopter Tour over Toronto.

⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Flight Time: 14 Minutes | 💰 Check Rates & Availability

Why choose this tour? This is the longer version of the popular Toronto City Sightseeing Helicopter Tour, covering twice as many miles of aerial exploration. You’ll get to see all of Toronto’s key sites from above, and even more of the GTA and Lake Ontario!

✅ 14-minute sightseeing flight over Toronto
✅ 22 miles (35 km) of aerial exploration
✅ Breathtaking views of the city skyline and beyond
✅ See iconic landmarks including the CN Tower and Rogers Centre
✅ Admire Lake Ontario, High Park, and Humber Bay from above
✅ Fly over historic sites like Casa Loma & Evergreen Brick Works
✅ Includes a digital photo and printed picture
✅ Intimate flight with maximum 3 passengers

Covering almost 22 miles (35 kilometres), you’ll get to travel all the way from the waterfront up to the Don Valley in the east, and west to High Park, covering all of the city’s top attractions, landmarks and historic sites.

The only reason this tour isn’t ranked at the top of the list is that the longer flight time does come with a higher price tag. So, this option may not appeal to everyone. But if you want to maximize your time in the sky, it’s absolutely worth it!

4. Exhilarating 120km Aerial Tour of Toronto

For exhilarating views of Toronto from the sky, book this 120km Aerial Tour of Toronto with iflyTOTO!

⭐ Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Flight Time: 18 Minutes | 💰 Check Rates & Availability

Why choose this tour? This is a shorter version of the One Hour Aerial Tour with iflyTOTO, focusing on exploring downtown Toronto from above. Not only will you get fantastic views of the city, but the flight is also filled with plenty of fun, excitement, and adrenaline!

✅ A fun and exciting flight experience
✅ Unique experience in a small fixed-wing plane
✅ Sweeping aerial views of downtown Toronto
✅ See key landmarks including the CN Tower and Rogers Center
✅ Beautiful views of Lake Ontario and the Toronto Islands
✅ Flight path designed for optimal views and photos
✅ Plane can accommodate up to 8 passengers

This small-plane adventure will take you on a thrilling ride, with views similar to a helicopter tour, flying right over key Toronto sites! For the best views, you will get to circle the CN Tower, getting as close as possible to this iconic landmark, seeing the best of downtown Toronto and the Lake Ontario waterfront.

Plus, on this tour you’ll get a taste of what it’s like flying in a private plane, with seating for only 8 passengers! This guarantees an intimate flight experience, and excellent views with window seats for every passenger.

5. Toronto Private Helicopter Tour for Two

For a private flight experience over Toronto, try this Toronto Private Helicopter Tour for Two.

⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Flight Time: 13 Minutes | 💰 Check Rates & Availability

Why choose this tour? If you’re looking for a more exclusive flight experience, or to impress your significant other, then booking a private helicopter ride is a fantastic option.

✅ Private helicopter tour for 2 people
✅ 22 miles (35 km) of aerial exploration
✅ Bird’s eye views of downtown Toronto
✅ Fly over the CN Tower and other iconic landmarks
✅ See skyscrapers and renowned attractions from above
✅ Choose between a daytime or twilight flight
✅ Includes a digital photo and printed picture

This is the private version of the the popular 14-Minute Helicopter Tour over Toronto, offering fantastic views of the city for up to 2 passengers, in a more intimate setting.

Although this is a pricer option, a private helicopter tour over Toronto is a truly memorable way to celebrate a special occasion.

However, if a private tour doesn’t quite fit into your budget, keep in mind that the regular 7-minute and 14-minute helicopter tours only seat up to 3 passengers. So, unless a solo traveller books the same time slot as you, chances are you will end up with a private experience anyway!

And, if you’re unsure whether you would prefer to book a regular tour or a private tour, you can always book the regular tour and speak to the operator closer to the time, should you wish to upgrade to a guaranteed private flight.

Where do Toronto Aerial Tours Depart From?

Conveniently, all of Toronto’s aerial tours operate out of Toronto’c City Airport, Billy Bishop, which is located on the Toronto Islands. It’s very easy to get to on foot, by public transport, or even by using the airport’s free shuttle bus service.

Once you arrive, you can either take one of the world’s shortest ferry rides (about 90 seconds long!), or walk through the pedestrian tunnel which connects the airport to the mainland.

Billy Bishop is my favourite airport to fly in and out of, as it’s only a 15-minute walk from my home in downtown Toronto, and it’s small and quiet. So getting there, checking in and going through security is always quick, easy and stress free. Plus, it’s such a scenic airport to fly into, with spectacular views of the city, Toronto Islands and Lake Ontario!

Helicopter & Aerial Tour FAQs

Are helicopter tours in Toronto worth it?

Flying over Toronto is the most spectacular ways to see the city. Plus, the ride itself is exciting, fun and exhilarating. So, in my opinion, Toronto helicopter tours are absolutely worth it!

Even if you’re not a confident flyer or good with heights, the staff on all of these tours do a fantastic job of reassuring you and making the experience comfortable and enjoyable.

And you don’t need to be a visitor to enjoy this experience in Toronto. A helicopter or plane tour is also a fantastic way for locals to see the city from a different perspective, or celebrate a special occasion. I even know a couple who got engaged on a helicopter tour in Toronto!

How long is a helicopter tour in Toronto?

Toronto helicopter tours are generally 7 to 14 minutes of flight time. Although you will need to check-in for the tour at least 30 minutes in advance.

However, for a longer flight experience, I recommend booking the One Hour Aerial Tour of Toronto and Niagara Falls with iflyTOTO. This tour in a small fixed-wing plane offers a similar experience to what you would expect from a helicopter tour, but with a much longer flight time, more comfort and many more views!

Do helicopter tours operate year round in Toronto?

Most helicopter (and plane) tours in Toronto operate year round. The only exception is that some operators close for a few weeks in the height of winter (January to February).

It’s also worth keeping in mind that weather conditions can affect departures. Storms, strong winds, snow, heavy rain and fog can all result in flight cancellations. However, if this happens, the tour operator will offer to reschedule your flight or issue a refund.

How much does a helicopter or aerial tour in Toronto cost?

Helicopter and aerial tours in Toronto generally range from around $90 USD ($122 CAD) per person for a short flight, up to $500 USD ($680 CAD) for a private tour.

Are there weight restrictions on helicopter tours in Toronto?

Yes, there are weight restrictions on Toronto helicopter tours. The maximum weight is 260 lbs (118 kgs) per passenger, and up to 600 lbs (272 kgs) combined weight for the entire group.

Are there age restrictions on Toronto helicopter tours?

Passengers must be at least 4 years of age to participate in a helicopter tour in Toronto. If some passengers are younger than this, I recommend considering the One Hour Aerial Tour of Toronto and Niagara Falls or 120km Aerial Tour of Toronto with iflyTOTO instead.

What should I wear and bring on a helicopter tour?

You will need to bring your ID or passport with you to check in, as well as proof of your reservation.

As the flight time is short, you shouldn’t need to take anything on the helicopter with you (except for your phone or camera, as there will be great photo opportunities!) Most other items (like water bottles and bags) won’t be allowed on board. But you will have access to a locker at the airport to leave your belongings in.

In terms of what to wear, I recommend wearing comfortable clothing. However, you should avoid items which are too bulky or loose, in case they are not permitted on board.

Are aerial tours in Toronto accessible?

Although most people can participate in helicopter and plane tours in Toronto, unfortunately neither are wheelchair accessible. They are also not recommended for pregnant travellers or if you have serious medical conditions, like heart problems.

The plane tours with iflyTOTO may be a better fit if you have accessibility needs. These tours can even accommodate infants sitting on parents laps and service animals.

Is a helicopter or aerial tour safe?

Yes, helicopter and other aerial tours are safe, as long as you book with a reputable company. However, it’s important that you pay attention to the safety instructions at the beginning of the tour, to ensure a safe experience.

Final Thoughts – Best Toronto Helicopter & Flight Tours

Taking a helicopter or aerial tour is a fantastic way to see Toronto. With unparalleled views of the city, Lake Ontario and beyond, you’ll get to take in all of Toronto’s skyline, key landmarks and natural areas. Plus, the ride itself is a unique activity you won’t soon forget, full of fun, excitement, and even a little adrenaline.

Hopefully this list has helped you decide which helicopter or aerial tour to choose, for a truly unforgettable Toronto experience.

Still unsure which tour is right for you? View all Toronto helicopter tours and flights.

READ MORE

Niagara Day Tour: 10 Best Niagara Falls Tours From Toronto

7 Best Niagara Wine Tours (From a Local)

3 Best Niagara Bike Wine Tours: 2024 Complete Guide

10 Best Montreal Food Tours: The Complete Guide

Is Toronto Safe? Everything You Need To Know About Safety in Toronto

25 Best Things to Do in Toronto in Winter