The Experience
The South Coast Helicopter Tour is a 60-minute private flight that takes you on a wide-ranging journey from Redhill Aerodrome to the English Channel and back.
With space for up to three passengers, this extended route offers a complete blend of coastline, countryside and urban views.
From the moment you lift off, your pilot will guide you south past Gatwick Airport, providing aerial views of terminals, taxiways and international aircraft movements. You’ll then fly over the Ouse Valley Viaduct - a 450-metre structure from 1842 that remains a marvel of Victorian engineering.
Continuing over Haywards Heath and Burgess Hill, you’ll reach Shoreham before hugging the coast toward Brighton. From the air, you’ll see the remains of the West Pier, Brighton Marina and the lively beachfront around Brighton Palace Pier. The journey continues east toward Newhaven’s ferry port and the iconic chalk cliffs of Beachy Head.
The final coastal leg includes views of Eastbourne’s Sovereign Harbour before turning inland over Crowborough and Ashdown Forest. On a clear day, you may even spot the London skyline in the distance. Your return to Redhill wraps up this spectacular round-trip.
This tour is ideal for those wanting to see the South Coast in one incredible flight, from Victorian viaducts to seaside resorts and countryside estates!
Itinerary
> Redhill Aerodrome
Your tour starts at the beautiful Redhill Airfield. Climb aboard one of our modern helicopter fleet and take-off heading south for Gatwick. Passing directly over Gatwick Airport you will get an amazing view of the terminals, taxiways and big airliners coming and going from London’s second biggest airport. Your pilot will be your tour guide and can tell you all about the activities below.
> Ouse Valley Viaduct
Following the Brighton mainline you will see the huge Ouse Valley Viaduct sometimes called the Balcombe Viaduct, built in 1842, it is an incredible 450m bridge spanning the Ouse Valley, carrying the London to Brighton railway line, and built from 11 million bricks for the princely sum of £38,500; it is an incredible feet of engineering.
> Shoreham by Sea
Continuing south takes you past the Sussex towns of Haywards Heath and Burgess Hill, then on over the South Downs to the Port town of Shoreham and The South Coast. On reaching the beach you turn eastwards towards Brighton. In the sea looms the wreck of the old Brighton West Pier destroyed by fire in 2003. Keeping just off the shoreline you will have fantastic views of the city and coastline. Further along the beach you fly over the newly refurbished Brighton East Pier with it’s fun fair. On leaving Brighton you over fly the chic Brighton Marina packed with some of the latest and most expensive yachts.
> Newhaven
Moving east you may glimpse the Newhaven Ferry as it leaves or returns from Dieppe in France. You will get a great view of Newhaven ferry port and docks as your journey continues. The coast now changes shape to chalk cliffs and rocks as you head for the world famous Beachy Head. With it’s massive record breaking white cliffs and lighthouse, it is a sight not to be missed.
> Eastbourne
Continuing along the coast you arrive at Eastbourne with its smart new Sovereign Harbour. Now turning north you fly past Halsham and Crowborough which is situated on the Weald next to Ashdown Forest. On reaching Edenbridge you turn west paralleling the North Downs towards South Godstone Station snatching views of the London skyline. Back at Redhill Aerodrome now, your pilot will smoothly land back on the helipad. It’s time for photos and maybe a cream tea at the Nutfield Priory.
Vital Information
Minimum age is 6 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Due to comfort and weight / balance of the aircraft, passengers weighing over 15 Stone (95 Kg) should contact the carrier before booking.
Flights are subject to suitable weather conditions. In the event of unsuitable weather, you will be offered an alternative date.
All passengers must have photographic ID with them for the day of the flight.
Flights are weight critical and all passenger weights must be provided when booking your date.
Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is cancelled, you will not be entitled to a refund.
The Weather
Lessons may be rescheduled due to poor weather, air traffic restrictions, safety concerns or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control.
Session Length
Your private helicopter flight will last 60 minutes.
Numbers
This experience is for up to three people.
What To Wear
Feel free to wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear. All aircraft are heated so regardless of the time of year you shouldn’t need more than a light jumper.
Availability
Flight departure times are subject to availability. Our flights usually operate between 10:00am and 4:00pm on a daily basis.
Location
Redhill, Surrey.
