8 Ways Construction Helicopters Save You Time and Money

A construction helicopter, or aerial crane, can help you transport cargo and lift heavy loads more quickly and efficiently than a ground crane. Discover eight ways construction helicopters can save you time and money throughout each stage of your next project.

Private helicopter charters are quickly becoming the go-to solution for business executives who value convenience and efficiency, whether you’re hopping between client meetings in neighboring cities or avoiding traffic en route to an important conference.

Helicopter charters provide an exclusive experience focused on comfort and luxury. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B as quickly as possible; it’s about reclaiming your time while traveling in style.

But planning a helicopter charter requires more than just booking the ride. You’ll need to tailor your flight schedule around your busy day and consider some unique logistics. How many passengers can the helicopter hold? How much luggage can you bring onboard? Can the charter accommodate last-minute changes?

In this article, we’ll walk you through the essentials of private helicopter travel so you can make informed decisions that match your pace, priorities, and expectations.

How Private Charters Elevate Business Travel

Private helicopter charters take luxury and convenience to the next level. With unparalleled flexibility and a focus on privacy and comfort, helicopter charter companies make getting to your destination as seamless and stress-free as possible.

young man in sunglasses and a suit leaning against a car beside a private helicopter — *Photo by Juan C. Palacios from Pexels*

Here are a few of the many benefits of private helicopter travel for busy professionals looking to travel in style:

Unparalleled Convenience: Did you know 69% of executives believe private flight comes with reduced stress and hassle? Helicopter charters are the most efficient and convenient means of private transportation for busy professionals, allowing you to avoid the hassle of commercial airports, such as long check-in lines, excessive security procedures, inconvenient layovers, and potential delays.

Whether you need to visit a remote job site or a vibrant, in-demand city, helicopters offer increased accessibility so you can focus on your business objectives.
Increased Flexibility: Private helicopter charters offer unmatched flexibility, with a quick booking process and customizable itineraries that can accommodate multiple destinations and last-minute changes.

The ability to create your own schedule and minimize downtime leads to enhanced efficiency and productivity. In fact, 74% of senior executives and C-suite professionals value the increased scheduling flexibility of private flight.
Optimized Time Savings: As you know, time is money. Among business executives surveyed, 77% prioritize the time-saving benefits of private flight. Helicopter transportation allows you to bypass traffic congestion and operate on your schedule, with direct flights that save time and maximize productivity.
Ultimate Privacy: Helicopter charters offer business executives a quiet, confidential space where they can collaborate on projects, conduct meetings, network, discuss sensitive information, or relax and unwind before the next corporate event. Your comfort, safety, and personal space are the top priorities of any quality helicopter charter service.
Enhanced Security: For high-profile companies and businesses handling sensitive information, security is of the utmost priority. Private helicopters are inherently more secure than traditional flights, as aircraft access is restricted and passengers are transported directly to their destination.
Superior Comfort: Ample legroom, ergonomic seating, and plush cabin interiors intricately crafted from high-end materials ensure a peaceful journey free from the excessive noise and turbulence of commercial flights.

Many helicopter charter companies offer aircraft with climate control and customizable lighting so you can tailor the environment to your preference, while panoramic windows offer a bird’s eye view of the cityscape below. Whether you need a calming space to work or you plan to relax and arrive refreshed and ready to talk business, a private helicopter can provide the quiet luxury you’re seeking.
Premium In-Flight Amenities: Some helicopters offer in-flight catering services, including snacks and refreshments, that can be personalized to your individual preferences or dietary requirements. Rest assured that you will receive impeccable service from professional staff who are always available to help with your luggage, inquiries, and any other needs.
Amplified Brand Prestige: Arriving at your destination via private helicopter sends a powerful message about the success and efficiency of your company, thereby enhancing your brand’s reputation and establishing yourself as a leader in your industry.
Elevated Business Opportunities: Flying private isn’t just about prestige, however–it’s also a gateway to building unique business opportunities, such as networking with clients in the exclusive comfort of a private chopper or fostering connections through shared charters to corporate events. These memorable travel experiences create the ideal environment for building lasting relationships and driving collaboration that furthers your success.

Travel Planning Logistics and Considerations

Booking a private helicopter charter is simpler than you might think. The process is designed to be as efficient as possible, allowing you to focus on your schedule and trip objectives instead of worrying about minute travel details.

Most charter companies allow you to book directly with the help of a dedicated expert who will guide you through choosing the right aircraft, scheduling departure times, and arranging pickup locations. You’ll have the flexibility to customize your itinerary and ensure your travel aligns perfectly with your business commitments.

Be sure to share your schedule and any special requests, such as in-flight Wi-Fi or dietary restrictions for in-flight catering, in order to make the trip as productive and comfortable as possible. Many charter services will also handle ground transportation arrangements to get you from the helipad to your final destination seamlessly.

yellow, black, and white private charter helicopter from Helicopter Express resting on a golf green at a luxury yacht club — *Photo by Helicopter Express*

Consider these key factors as you compare private charter companies and make your final selection:

Safety and Reputation: You’ll want to book with a private helicopter charter company that has deep experience and a proven track record of reliability. Check the operator’s safety record and verify that all pilots are experienced and properly certified. Ensure the pilots have successfully navigated specific conditions, like mountain landings or inclement weather, if necessary.
Available Aircraft: Assess which helicopters are available for private charters and whether they match your required passenger and luggage capacity. Determine whether they are up to your standards of luxury and comfort in terms of craftsmanship and materials, climate control and lighting options, and other amenities.

Ensure both the helicopters and equipment are modern and meticulously maintained to ensure a safe flight. The charter company should be able to provide proof of regular inspections and diligent maintenance routines that keep their fleet in optimal condition.‍
Flexibility and Scheduling: Be sure to confirm the operator's ability to accommodate your desired flight schedule–including departure and arrival times and the accessibility of suitable helipads–as well as potential last-minute changes. Determine whether there are any restrictions you need to be aware of in regard to permits required for landing.
Cleanliness: Ask about hygiene standards and ensure the company has established strict hygiene protocols to maintain a safe and clean environment.
Privacy: Ensure your helicopter charter company can provide a private and secure operation that meets your security needs.
Cost: Compare quotes from different helicopter charter companies and ask about the various factors that impact price, including distance and duration of flight. Learn whether there are any additional fees to be aware of, including fuel surcharges, landing expenses, and overnight charges.
Customer Service: Evaluate the operator's customer service reputation and their ability to cater to your specific needs, from concierge assistance to accommodating dietary restrictions.

By planning ahead and partnering with a trusted service, you can enjoy a stress-free experience that allows you to focus on what matters most—your business goals. Whether you’re heading to a meeting, job site, conference, or corporate event, a private helicopter charter ensures you’ll arrive on time, refreshed, and ready to make an impact.

Private Charter Helicopter FAQs

Interested in learning more? Here are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding private helicopter charters for business executives.

How many individuals can private helicopters hold?

Most private helicopters available for executive business travel are capable of holding up to 6 or 7 passengers. If you need to transport a large group, some helicopter charter companies offer seamless coordination of multiple helicopters to provide your entire team with a stress-free travel solution, no matter how complex your needs.

How much luggage is allowed on a private helicopter?

Most private helicopters come with ample luggage allowance, but the exact limit can vary depending on your specific aircraft model. Your helicopter charter team will be able to provide precise information tailored to your flight and requirements.

What types of private charters are available?

Private charters are available for executive travel, scenic and leisure tours, and transportation to special events. Whether you're flying for business, pleasure, or a special occasion, each flight can be tailored to the experience you desire.

How far in advance should I book a private charter flight?

It’s always recommended to book your flight as far in advance as possible so your charter company can accommodate any specific requests you have. Last-minute bookings may be available, though your options or amenities may be limited.

Can I customize my flight itinerary?

Absolutely! Private helicopter charters specialize in providing personalized service, including customizable itineraries that feature specific destinations and get you where you need to go on a specific timeline. A quality helicopter charter company will help you plan your itinerary and even cater to last-minute changes.

What amenities can I expect on a private charter flight?

Most private helicopters offer spacious, plush interiors, ergonomic seating, climate control options, and customizable lighting that can be tailored to your preferences for maximum comfort. Your helicopter charter may also feature noise-reducing cabin panels and vibration-canceling interiors for a smooth, quiet ride free from the many disturbances of commercial airlines. Longer flights may offer food and refreshments (all of which can be tailored to individual preferences and special requests).

Private Charters: Your Gateway to Unparalleled Comfort

Chartering a private helicopter isn’t just a transportation solution—it’s a strategy for maximizing efficiency, reclaiming your time, and enhancing the corporate travel experience. With the ability to customize every aspect of your journey, a private helicopter charter transforms travel into a seamless extension of your workday, offering luxury and practicality in equal measure.

As you plan your next business trip, keep in mind that successful helicopter travel comes down to the details. Planning for the logistics and partnering with a reputable helicopter charter company ensures a smooth journey so you can focus on what matters most.

yellow, black, and white private charter helicopter from Helicopter Express resting on a football field — *Photo by Helicopter Express*

Take to the Skies in Luxury with Helicopter Express

At Atlanta-based Helicopter Express, our executive travel services are tailored to meet the needs of modern professionals. When you fly with us, you will experience first-class amenities, meticulously maintained helicopters, and the professionalism and impeccable service of our world-class staff.

We have assembled the best pilots and fleet in the industry to provide a top-tier experience for business executives taking flight for an important conference, meeting, or private event. So sit back and relax within our spacious, plush interiors, enjoying the supreme comfort of a peaceful journey.

If you’re ready to book your organization’s private helicopter charter, contact us today to get a quote and learn how Helicopter Express has provided the ultimate first-class charter experience for over three decades.

8 Ways Construction Helicopters Save You Time and Money

A construction helicopter, or aerial crane, is a helicopter used in construction projects to transport cargo and lift heavy loads more quickly and efficiently. These versatile heavy-lift helicopters are an excellent choice for a number of tasks.

They can lift and transport hefty building materials such as steel, concrete, wood, and brick. They can place rooftop units such as HVAC systems and chillers with exacting precision. They can set radio transmission towers and power transmission lines or bring replenishment supplies to your remote location.

When a traditional ground crane can’t complete a job due to cost, inability to access a remote location, or difficulty performing in inclement weather or rough terrain, an aerial crane is the solution.

In fact, aerial cranes have very few limitations compared to ground cranes, making them your best option for nearly every type of construction project.

Here are eight ways a construction helicopter can save you both time and money throughout each stage of your project, from the initial planning and assessment to the ongoing development.

1. More effective preliminary assessments

You know how important it is to survey your site and tackle the initial assessment before getting to work. A utility helicopter can increase the effectiveness and range of your surveying efforts by enabling you to inspect the current conditions of any infrastructure, as well as perform aerial surveys, hazard assessments, and volumetric calculations of your site.

You can also use helicopters to take photographs and create time-lapse videos of your structure as it’s being built. Not only will these up-to-date images allow you to better coordinate logistics and monitor your site development (which can prevent you from wasting time and money), but you can use them to update stakeholders and investors about your progress.

Finally, you can use helicopters to aid in thermal imaging efforts so you can check for the incongruity of pipelines and other underground structures.

2. Increased accessibility

Utility helicopters can access nearly any area. You can use them to reach high-traffic zones with few access points or place heavy loads and equipment in remote or largely inaccessible areas, such as high rooftops, mountains, or hills.

That means less preliminary work—think timber felling or the construction of approach roads—which may allow you to reduce or entirely exclude certain auxiliary jobs from your construction process.

Say you’re working in a densely-forested area where the main road is far from your work site. If you choose to operate a traditional ground crane, you may have to spend time and resources constructing an access road to make way for the crane and the delivery of building materials by motor vehicle—at a great expense to you.

A construction helicopter eliminates the need for an approach road such as this one, which can save you resources and money.

And if you’re working in a high-traffic area, helicopter travel enables you to avoid ground inconveniences that have the potential to delay your project, such as road work and traffic congestion.

3. Easier and more cost-effective setup and teardown

Setup and teardown of traditional ground cranes can be cumbersome and costly. Ground cranes are slow to position and you must reposition them as you progress in your work. If you’re setting up a ground crane along a highway or busy road, you have to account for the time, effort, and money it takes to set up traffic control, as well.

Aerial cranes, on the other hand, require virtually no set up, saving you both time and money. They also allow you to avoid unnecessary traffic jams, travel delays, and potential automobile accidents.

4. Increased mobility and precision

Because standard cranes have limited mobility, they are far more difficult to maneuver when performing common installations on existing buildings, such as rooftop HVAC units, chillers, and ventilation. This means there is an increased risk of accidents as well as the potential for costly mistakes.

Construction and utility helicopters are more agile than ground cranes and have the advantage of being able to spin 360 degrees and hover over other buildings and structures. Their large side windows and aerial views allow pilots to place heavy loads and equipment more accurately and with a higher level of precision, whether installing or removing HVAC systems, performing pipeline or power line construction, or placing cell towers or steel beams.

This precision increases the safety of your external load operations and helps mitigate the risk of harm to other nearby properties and to your construction crew. This can save you from costly expenses resulting from lawsuits and repairs, as well as the headache of a project delay.

Construction helicopters also need very little space to maneuver, which means they can weave easily in and out of nearby buildings and skyscrapers. Plus, they can fly at low elevations and assist you in spotting issues or leaks in an installation that would be far more costly to fix later down the line.

5. Ability to perform in even the most tempestuous environments

Traditional ground cranes are most efficient on flat, hard ground and in fair weather conditions. If you rent a ground crane for use in a rough or tempestuous environment, you may find yourself facing safety issues and project delays head on—both of which can result in the need for an additional investment of time, money, and resources.

Aerial cranes, on the other hand, were developed to brave the elements. These heavy-lift helicopters are stable even in turbulent crosswinds and other threatening climates.

They are equipped to perform just as consistently in potential hazards such as:

High altitude
High temperature
Elevated atmospheric pressure
Rocky or mountainous terrain
Forests or swamps
Soft ground

Plus, they are often permitted to access environmentally protected areas that may not allow for the entry of ground cranes.

No matter the environment, you can rest assured your hired pilot and helicopter are more than equipped to handle it.

6. Less expensive to operate

Depending on the scope of your project, an aerial crane may be a far more cost-effective option than a traditional ground crane. The lift fee for a construction helicopter is frequently less expensive than the fee for a ground crane because helicopters can perform certain tasks more quickly and require less time planning.

In many cases, your helicopter construction company will do much of the work for you.

When you first meet with your potential helicopter service company and discuss your project challenges and goals, they’ll be able to help you choose the most efficient helicopter for your needs.

The Bell 407HP, for example, is designed to be cost-effective and occupy less cubic space and burn less fuel than others. This is one of the many aerial cranes available via Helicopter Express. This chopper boasts speed and reliability in all weather conditions, and its fuel efficiency makes it a top performer in its class.

Helicopter Express crew assisting heavy-lift helicopter job.

7. Heavy lift capabilities

Aerial cranes enable you to stick to your work schedule and complete your project on or under budget. Besides requiring virtually no setup, they are faster at moving rig components and lifting heavy equipment than ground cranes.

When you work with a traditional ground crane, you may need to transport your building materials by truck. Trucks can only handle small loads and require more frequent changeover, which greatly increases the amount of time you must spend hauling cargo back and forth.

Many construction helicopters, however, can lift between 2,000 and 6,000 pounds. Just imagine how many more materials you’ll be able to transport at one time (and how quickly!). Hooking up cargo transport to a helicopter doesn’t take much time, either.

Does your project involve the transportation of pipeline pieces? Traditional means of transporting pipeline can be time-consuming and expensive, but aerial cranes can haul large amounts of heavy pipeline in less than half the time.

See an example of how one of our clients set 41 utility towers in 5 hours with our aerial crane service—a job that would take nearly 3 weeks using a ground crane!

8. Dedicated crew to ensure timeliness, efficiency, and safety

Finally, when you work with a helicopter lifting company like Helicopter Express, you can rest easy knowing you have an entire crew by your side who are devoted to the safety and timeliness of your project.

Pilots

Helicopter pilots are highly skilled at flying in a diverse range of environments. They know how to perform heavy-lift tasks and place cargo with extreme precision so each step of your project is completed correctly and on time.

Pilots also frequently lead logistical support teams whose key goal is to make sure your project falls within your timeline and your budget.

Project manager and on-site logistics coordinators

A heavy-lift helicopter company like Helicopter Express will also likely assign you a project manager and on-site logistics coordinators whose job duties include:

Helping you outline your project goals and challenges
Coordinating rig setup and teardown and cargo transport
Managing external load transportation to ensure loads are packaged and transported as quickly as possible

Make us your go-to team.

Our highly skilled pilots have the experience and equipment needed to rise to any challenge. When you need experts you can trust, give us a call.

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