Frequently Asked Questions about Doors Off Tour
Will I see the volcano?
The volcanoes that comprise the island of Oahu have not erupted in several hundred thousand years. Hawaii ’s active volcano, Kilauea, is located on the Big Island, which is about 250 miles from Oahu.
Will I see waterfalls?
If there has been an abundance of rainfall, you’ll see many waterfalls during your tour. Naturally, waterfalls tend to be scarce if there has been no rain.
Will I see Pearl Harbor?
Yes. Each of our tours includes a marvelous pass over Pearl Harbor, where you’ll see the Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri.
How many people can fit in the helicopter?
The A-Star carries six passengers plus the pilot. For the comfort of all passengers, Open Seating passengers weighing in excess of 250 pounds may be charged an additional fee equal to one-half the cost of one seat. Open Seating passengers weighing more than 300 pounds will be charged for an additional seat. Any two Open Seating passengers from the same reservation whose combined weight exceeds 430 pounds may be required to purchase a comfort seat. An individual First Class passenger’s weight must not exceed 180 pounds; the combined weight of two First Class passengers must not exceed 345 pounds.
Can I be guaranteed a front seat?
Practically everyone wants to sit up front where you will get arguably the best view. The front seats are considered “First Class” and are available for a slight additional charge. The combined weight for both parties seated up front cannot exceed 360 pounds.
Is there a discount for kids?
The FAA requires that every passenger over 24 months occupy his or her own seat. However, children younger than that can ride on their parents’ lap for free.
Can I take pictures?
Yes, we encourage you to take pictures and/or video. Bring extra film and you must have a strap for the doors off tour.
Do you provide a video?
Yes. The A-Star is equipped with a live camera DVD recording system that records each flight. The video also records your pilot’s narration, your own comments and questions and gentle Hawaiian music in the background. You may purchase a DVD of your actual flight following your tour.
What happens if it’s cloudy?
As a rule, we don’t fly if the weather is inclement. After all, we want you to enjoy your tour. We encourage you to book your tour early in your stay so that you have the flexibility to fly another day if the weather is poor.
Am I going to get sick?
The A-Star is an extremely stable aircraft and is used worldwide for air tours. Your tour will be a comfortable experience as we follow the Tour Operator’s Program of Safety flight guidelines which call for limited pitch and bank angles.
Is it safe to fly in a helicopter?
Absolutely. Makani Kai Helicopters enjoys a spotless safety record. We use modern equipment, employ the finest and most experienced pilots, have a highly dedicated and trained support staff and are proud members of T.O.P.S., the Tour Operator’s Program of Safety.