Ho Chi Minh City resumes helicopter sightseeing tours

The tours depart from Vung Tau Airport in Tam Thang Ward, with ticket prices starting at VND2.9 million (US$110) per passenger for the 15-minute Vung Tau Skyview tour.

Regular flights are scheduled every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 9:00 am and 3:00 pm.

Travelers can choose from four itineraries ranging from 15 to 60 minutes.

Options include the 15-minute Vung Tau Skyview tour, the 30-minute Green Horizon tour connecting Vung Tau with the Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, the 40-minute Green Coastline tour between Long Hai and Ho Tram, and the 60-minute Skyline Discovery route from Vung Tau to downtown Ho Chi Minh City.

Each tour highlights the connection between sea, forest, and urban landscapes.

The helicopter tours were first introduced in April 2022 but they were suspended in October that year due to the lack of a suitable landing site in central Ho Chi Minh City.

Authorities and tourism companies have since worked to resolve logistical issues, and regional cooperation with then-Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, which is now part of the city, has created favorable conditions for the relaunch.

Future plans include developing additional satellite helipads across the city to connect with river tourism and major attractions, creating new experiences for visitors.

Nguyen Minh Man, deputy general director of VinaGroup, said the tours are expected to become a premium highlight of Ho Chi Minh City’s tourism industry.

The service is operated by Southern Vietnam Helicopter Company, with VinaGroup handling customer arrangements and scheduling.

Tickets are distributed through major travel agencies such as Benthanh Tourist, World Trans, SASCO, Vietluxtour, and others.

Flights use EC-155B1 helicopters, with alternatives including Super Puma L2, Leonardo AW189, and Airbus EC-225.

Packages include VIP tours with eight seats and standard tours with 12 seats, depending on passenger demand.