Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Fly
- Helicopter Routes & Top Things to See
- How to Reach Port Blair
- Booking & Permits
- Estimated Costs
- Flight Experience: What to Expect
- Safety, Weight & Seating
- Local Food, Shopping & Culture
- Nearby Attractions
- Accommodation Options
- Tips for Different Travelers
- Photography & Drone Rules
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Skimming over emerald islands and reefs ringed by turquoise, a helicopter ride in Port Blair turns the Andaman Sea into a living map. From above, you trace white-sand crescents at Corbyn’s Cove, the mossy ruins of Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island), and the starfish-shaped coral gardens off North Bay. In the Andamans, helicopters are both a vital lifeline for inter-island travel and, when available, an unforgettable way to sightsee.
Pure “joyrides” operate subject to aircraft availability, weather, and regulatory permissions. Most flights prioritize inter-island connectivity and medical evacuations, while private charters can be arranged with advance notice. The result: a rare, premium experience that rewards early planning and flexibility.
History & Importance
The Andaman & Nicobar Islands spread over hundreds of kilometers of open sea, with sparsely populated islands and limited ferry schedules. Helicopters operated under the Andaman & Nicobar Administration (often through contracted operators) have long served as a critical link—moving patients, officials, and residents, and connecting remote airstrips and helipads.
For travelers, these flights reveal the archipelago’s story: colonial-era Port Blair and its Cellular Jail below, World War-era installations on nearby islands, and protected marine parks. The aerial perspective underscores the Andamans’ strategic location and fragile ecosystems.
Best Time to Fly
- Overall season: October to May offers the best visibility, calmer winds, and more reliable operations.
- Monsoon (June to September): Expect frequent weather disruptions, low cloud ceilings, and possible cancellations.
- Time of day: Early mornings usually have smoother air and clearer horizons. Late afternoons can be scenic but are subject to operational daylight limits.
Helicopter Routes & Top Things to See
Availability varies by season and aircraft. Typical sightseeing views and inter-island hops include:
Classic Port Blair Circuit (when permitted)
- Cellular Jail, Marina Park, and Aberdeen Jetty
- Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island) and North Bay’s coral shallows
- Corbyn’s Cove arc and Chidiya Tapu ridge line
Coastal Ridge & National Park Views
- Mount Harriet National Park’s forested slopes
- Wandoor and Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park’s reef-fringed islets
Inter-Island Sectors (subject to public service schedules)
- Port Blair to Swaraj Dweep (Havelock) or Shaheed Dweep (Neil) when operational
- Longer sectors to Rangat or Diglipur on service days
Note: Specific sightseeing “loops” are not guaranteed. Most aircraft prioritize scheduled public service flights and emergencies; private charters may design a custom route within permitted airspace.
How to Reach Port Blair
By Air
- Fly to Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), Port Blair, from major Indian cities such as Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi, and Mumbai.
- Flight time: ~2 to 2.5 hours from Chennai/Kolkata; ~3.5 to 5 hours (often via connections) from other metros.
By Sea
- Government-operated passenger ships sail from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam to Port Blair. Sailings are infrequent and take 3–4 days; cabins book out well in advance.
Local Transfer
- Port Blair helipad/airport area is ~10–20 minutes by taxi from most city hotels. Arrive early for security and weigh-in.
Booking & Permits
Public Service Helicopter Seats
- Operated under the Andaman & Nicobar Administration for inter-island connectivity.
- Priority: medical evacuations and residents; tourist seats are limited and often released close to departure.
- Booking: Typically via official counters/portals of the Administration’s Civil Aviation department; walk-in or standby may be possible for last-minute seats.
- ID required: Government-issued photo ID (passport for foreign nationals).
Private Charter/Sightseeing
- Arrange through licensed charter operators or reputed local DMCs in Port Blair.
- Permits and route approvals may be needed; operators handle filings and helipad slots.
- Payment terms: Advance deposit, with strict cancellation policies tied to weather and permissions.
Important: Drone zones, defense installations, and airport proximity impose strict no-fly areas. All helicopter routes must adhere to air traffic control and administrative regulations.
Estimated Costs
Indicative only; actual fares depend on season, aircraft type, payload, and permissions.
Public Service (Inter-Island) Fares
- Short sectors (e.g., Port Blair to nearby islands): typically a few thousand INR per seat, subject to quota and classification.
- Longer sectors (e.g., North Andaman): higher fares per seat. Concessions may apply for residents; tourists generally pay standard rates.
Private Charter/Sightseeing
- Hourly helicopter charter in India often ranges roughly INR 90,000 to 150,000+ per flight hour, plus taxes and fees.
- Minimum billing: Commonly 1–2 hours, including positioning time and ground delays.
- Extras: Landing/helipad fees, route permissions, and GST may apply.
Other Trip Costs in Port Blair (per day, typical)
- Hotels: Budget INR 1,500–3,000; Mid-range INR 3,000–7,000; Premium INR 8,000–18,000+
- Meals: INR 400–1,000 per person (casual dining); higher at resorts
- Taxis within city: INR 300–800 per hop; day hire varies by itinerary
Flight Experience: What to Expect
- Duration: Scenic hops often 10–20 minutes; inter-island sectors vary 15–60+ minutes depending on route.
- Check-in: Arrive 45–60 minutes early for ID verification, security screening, and weight checks.
- Baggage: Small handbags/cameras usually allowed; larger bags may be restricted due to payload limits.
- Seating: Assigned for weight balance. Window seats maximize views; ask politely, but final allocation is operational.
- Noise: Headsets may be provided; bring earplugs for kids.
- Views: Expect turquoise reefs, mangroves, forested hills, and beaches. Glare is strong midday—polarized sunglasses help.
Safety, Weight & Seating
- Weight and balance are critical. Passengers are weighed; combined payload determines seating.
- Passenger weight thresholds: Heavier passengers may need special seating or, rarely, an extra seat—operator policy applies.
- Infants and children: Check age limits and lap-infant policies; child headsets recommended.
- Health: Pregnant travelers and those with recent surgeries or ear issues should seek medical advice and carry clearance if required.
- Weather: Low clouds, rain, or high winds can delay or cancel flights with short notice.
- Safety briefing: Follow crew instructions; keep belts fastened; no opening doors/windows unless instructed.
Local Food, Shopping & Culture
Food
- Seafood specialties: Grilled fish, prawn curry, crab masala, and island-style thalis.
- Where: Aberdeen Bazaar area, seaside cafes near Marina Park, and hotel restaurants around Phoenix Bay and Marine Hill.
Shopping
- Aberdeen Bazaar: Spices, handicrafts, wooden souvenirs, and local art.
- Responsible buying: Avoid coral, shells, and marine products that may be illegal to trade; request invoices and authenticity where applicable.
Culture
- A cosmopolitan settler community with Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, and North Indian influences.
- Indigenous tribes are strictly protected; there is no ethical or legal “tribal tourism.” Respect all buffer and no-entry zones.
Nearby Attractions
- Cellular Jail National Memorial and evening sound-and-light show
- Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island) ruins and deer
- North Bay Island for snorkeling and glass-bottom boats
- Corbyn’s Cove Beach for an easy city-side sunset
- Chidiya Tapu for golden-hour views; Mount Harriet National Park for nature trails
- Samudrika Naval Marine Museum and Anthropological Museum
- Wandoor and Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (Jolly Buoy/Red Skin seasonal)
Accommodation Options
- Budget: Simple guesthouses near Aberdeen Bazaar and Delanipur; convenient for markets and ferries.
- Mid-range: City hotels around Phoenix Bay, Marine Hill, and Goal Ghar with AC rooms and in-house dining.
- Premium: Sea-facing hotels and boutique stays near Port Blair’s waterfront or at secluded coves.
- Tip: For early flights, choose accommodation within a 15–20 minute drive of the airport/helipad.
Tips for Different Travelers
Families
- Carry ear protection for kids; bring a light jacket (cabins can feel cool).
- Schedule morning flights to avoid nap times and potential afternoon winds.
Honeymooners
- Consider a private charter for guaranteed window views and custom routing (subject to permissions).
- Combine the flight day with a sunset at Chidiya Tapu and a relaxed seafood dinner.
Friends/Groups
- Charter costs split well among 4–6 seats depending on aircraft.
- Pair the flight day with snorkeling at North Bay or a museum hop in town.
Packing & Practical
- Essentials: Photo ID, sunglasses, sunscreen, compact camera with strap, water in a closed bottle.
- Avoid: Loose hats/scarves on the ramp; drones without permits; bulky bags.
Photography & Drone Rules
- Cameras are generally allowed, but follow crew guidance; no leaning on doors/windows.
- Lens: A 24–70mm equivalent works for both wide reefs and island details; consider a polarizing filter to cut glare.
- Drones: The airport area and many islands are strict no-fly zones. Operating a drone requires DGCA compliance and local permissions; unauthorized drone use can attract penalties.
FAQs
Q: Are helicopter joyrides regularly available in Port Blair?
A: Pure sightseeing flights are limited and depend on aircraft availability and approvals. Most helicopters serve inter-island routes and emergencies. Private charters are the most reliable option for sightseeing.
Q: How long does a typical flight last?
A: Scenic hops often run 10–20 minutes. Inter-island flights can range from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on the sector.
Q: Can I guarantee a window seat?
A: Seat allocation is based on weight and balance. You can request a window, but the final decision is operational. On private charters, seating can be planned more flexibly.
Q: Is the ride suitable for children or pregnant travelers?
A: Many operators accept children with proper supervision and ear protection. Pregnant travelers should consult a doctor and the operator; medical clearance may be required.
Q: What happens if my flight is canceled due to weather?
A: Helicopter operations are weather-dependent. If canceled, operators usually offer rebooking or refunds per their policy. Keep an extra buffer day in your itinerary.
Conclusion
A helicopter ride over Port Blair reveals the Andamans’ essence in a single sweep: sapphire lagoons, forested ridges, and historic landmarks threaded by coral reefs. Because seats are limited and operations prioritize essential services, plan early, stay flexible, and treat the experience as a premium, weather-dependent highlight of your trip.
