Ottawa helicopter rides offer a breathtaking way to experience the city from the sky, showcasing panoramic views of the capital’s iconic landmarks like Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and the Ottawa River. These scenic tours typically operate from nearby Gatineau, Quebec, allowing you to soar over both the natural beauty and urban landscapes of the region.
Popular for tourists and locals alike, helicopter tours are available year-round and offer a unique perspective on Ottawa’s architecture, parks, and waterways. Whether it's for a special occasion or a fun adventure, these rides provide an unforgettable experience.
Step - 1: Find Your Suitable Transport Option
There are several mode of transport by which one can reach Gatineau-Ottawa Executive Airport. The available mode of transport are by car, public transit and taxi or a rideshare.
By Car:
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Downtown Ottawa: Take Autoroute 50 East from King Edward Avenue and exit at 154 to reach the airport in about 25 minutes.
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Ottawa International Airport (YOW): From YOW, you can take Bronson Avenue North to join Highway 417 East, then transfer to Autoroute 50 East to Gatineau, reaching the airport in around 35-40 minutes.
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Kanata: From Kanata, use Highway 417 East toward downtown Ottawa, then transfer to Autoroute 50 East to Gatineau. The trip is approximately 45 minutes.
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Orléans: If you're starting from Orléans, take Regional Road 174 West, then merge onto Highway 417 West toward Ottawa. Follow Autoroute 50 East to reach the airport in about 30-35 minutes.
By Public Transit (Bus):
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From Downtown Ottawa: Take the OC Transpo bus to downtown Gatineau. You can transfer to STO buses that operate in Gatineau. Although there’s no direct bus to the airport, taking a taxi or rideshare for the last part of the journey from downtown Gatineau is a good option.
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From Ottawa International Airport (YOW): Use OC Transpo's Route 97 to downtown Ottawa, then transfer to a bus heading to Gatineau (such as Route 400 or 800), and use a taxi or rideshare to complete the trip.
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From Kanata: Take OC Transpo Route 61 or 62 to downtown Ottawa, transfer to a Gatineau-bound bus, and then take a taxi or rideshare from Gatineau to the airport.
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From Orléans: You can take OC Transpo Route 39 to downtown Ottawa, then switch to a bus to Gatineau before using a taxi or rideshare to reach the airport.
By Taxi or RideShare:
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From Downtown Ottawa: A taxi or rideshare like Uber can take you to the airport in approximately 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The route usually follows King Edward Avenue onto Autoroute 50 East.
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From Ottawa International Airport (YOW): You can take a taxi or rideshare from YOW, which typically takes 35-40 minutes. The trip will take you north via Bronson Avenue or Riverside Drive before merging onto Autoroute 50 East toward Gatineau.
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From Kanata: A taxi or Uber ride from Kanata will take about 45 minutes, following Highway 417 East through Ottawa before joining Autoroute 50 East to Gatineau.
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From Orléans: A rideshare from Orléans to Gatineau-Ottawa Executive Airport takes about 30-35 minutes, traveling west along Highway 174 and then onto Highway 417 West toward Autoroute 50 East.
Step - 2: Head Towards the Helipad
To reach the helicopter area from Gatineau-Ottawa Executive Airport, follow these steps:
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Exit the Main Terminal:
- Upon leaving the main terminal building of Gatineau-Ottawa Executive Airport, head towards the general aviation area.
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Follow Airport Signage:
- Look for signs directing you to the helicopter operations area or heliport. Airports typically have clear signage to guide you to different operational zones.
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Locate the Helicopter Pad:
- The helicopter pad or heliport area is usually situated close to the general aviation facilities. It may be a designated section of the airport grounds where helicopters take off and land.
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Ask for Assistance if Needed:
- If you have trouble finding the helicopter area, ask airport staff for directions. They can guide you to the correct location.
Additional Tips:
- Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to find the helicopter pad and complete any required check-in procedures.
- Bring Your Booking Confirmation: Have your booking details handy in case you need to show them to staff or your tour provider.
By following these steps, you should be able to easily navigate from Gatineau-Ottawa Executive Airport to the helicopter area for your ride.
Steps - 3: Board the Helicopter
Check In:
- Check-in with "Select Aviation" staff at the "Select Aviation College", near the Gatineau-Ottawa Executive Airport.
- Provide your booking confirmation or ticket and any identification if required.
Complete Safety Briefing:
- Participate in the safety briefing provided by the tour operator. This briefing will cover important safety procedures and instructions for the flight.
Weigh-in (if required):
- Some operators may conduct a weight check to ensure the helicopter is balanced properly. This is typically done discreetly and is for safety purposes.
Secure Personal Items:
- Store personal belongings in provided storage areas or follow the operator’s instructions for securing items. Avoid bringing large bags or items that could interfere with the helicopter's operation.
Wear Appropriate Clothing:
- Dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Avoid loose items or accessories that could be hazardous during boarding and flight.
Board the Helicopter:
- Follow the instructions for boarding the helicopter. Typically, passengers will board in a specific order, and there may be a designated area for boarding.
Take Your Seat:
- Once aboard, take your assigned seat. The operators will provide instructions on how to fasten your seatbelt and prepare for takeoff.
Listen to Final Instructions:
- Pay attention to any final instructions or safety tips provided by the pilot or operators before takeoff.
Things to Keep in Mind
Not allowed
- Weapons or sharp objects
- Smoking in the vehicle
- Alcohol and drugs
Know before you go
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- If you have any special requirements, please don't hesitate to contact the activity provider
Places That You Can Experience
- Chelsea
- Parc de la Gatineau
- Canadian Museum of History
- Parliament Hill
- Fairmont Chateau Laurier
- Rideau Canal