ABOUT SYDNEY HELICOPTERS
Every flight starts with trust
Founded in 1985, Sydney Helicopters is Sydney's longest-running commercial helicopter operator. More than 40 years on, we continue to deliver scenic tours, private charter and specialist aviation services with our own fleet, pilots and in-house maintenance capability.
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Our story
Taking you higher since 1985
From our purpose-built base at Nepean Aerospace Park, we fly tourism, charter, filming, lifting and emergency-response missions across Sydney, Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley and beyond. That breadth of experience gives every passenger and client confidence that their flight is supported by a capable, established operation.
Why fly with us
Our fleet. Our people. Our standards.
We own the helicopters we fly and maintain them through our dedicated in-house engineering capability. That gives us greater control over aircraft availability, presentation and maintenance, while our pilots’ experience across multiple kinds of flying brings real depth to every operation.
Meet your crew
The people behind every great flight
Our pilots, engineers, crew and support team combine specialist aviation experience with genuine care for every passenger and project. From your first enquiry to your final landing, you are supported by people who know the aircraft, the region and the operation.
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Mark Harrold
Chief Pilot and Owner
Licensed since 2002 and endorsed across multiple helicopter models, including multi-engine aircraft. Extensive experience in feature-film work, aerial firefighting and external-load operations.
Peter Blackburn
Senior Line Pilot
Commercial helicopter pilot with experience in VIP and corporate transfers, photography, film, infrastructure inspection and aerial firefighting.
James Williams
Senior Line Pilot
Charter and airwork pilot with experience in photography, film, powerline inspection, aerial firefighting and remote operations.
Adam Schofield
Operations Manager and Chief Crewman
Decades of aircrew experience across winching, rappelling, search and rescue, firefighting and flood operations.
Peter Potroz
Senior Line Pilot
Experienced VFR and IFR pilot across firefighting, emergency medical services, flood relief, lifting and specialist airwork.
Engineering and support team
Behind every flight
Our licensed engineers, operations staff, crew and administration team keep every flight supported from planning through to landing.
Safety
Confidence starts before take-off
Every flight operates under our CASA-approved Operations Manual and Safety Management System. Our pilots complete ongoing checks and training, while our aircraft are inspected and maintained by our own engineering team.
Accreditations and partnerships
Standards you can trust
Fleet
13 helicopters. One standard of care.
Our turbine fleet includes aircraft for scenic flights, private charter, group transport, specialist airwork and emergency response. Every aircraft is company-owned and maintained in-house.
Our base
Nepean Aerospace Park
Our main base in Castlereagh, Penrith is a purpose-built helicopter facility with undercover hangar storage, an engineering department, training and conference facilities, passenger lounge and secure parking. We also operate to and from Mascot and Bankstown airports, subject to arrangements.
Environment
Responsibility on the ground and in the air
Our facilities are designed with solar power, battery storage and rainwater harvesting in mind. Our Jindabyne facility operates entirely off-grid, while our Castlereagh facility is semi off-grid. We work to minimise risk to the communities and environments in which we operate.
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know before take-off
Whether it’s your first helicopter flight or you are planning a private charter, these answers will help you feel confident before you fly.
How experienced are your pilots?
Our pilots are experienced across scenic, charter, infrastructure inspection, aerial firefighting, photography and film work. They complete ongoing company and aircraft-specific training under our quality and safety systems.
What happens if the weather turns?
Safety comes first. We assess wind, visibility, cloud height and the nature of the flight before departure. If conditions may affect your booking, we will contact you as early as possible to discuss the available options.
Is there an age limit?
Passengers of all ages may fly provided they are fit to do so. Requirements for infants and children vary by aircraft and seating arrangement, so please confirm passenger ages when booking.
Can I fly while pregnant?
Comfort is the main consideration, particularly later in pregnancy. If you are unsure whether flying is suitable for you, please speak with your healthcare professional before booking.
How many passengers fit in each helicopter?
Capacity depends on the aircraft and the weights of all passengers. We request individual passenger weights when booking so we can select and safely configure the appropriate aircraft.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing and secure footwear. Dark tops tend to photograph best because bright colours can reflect in cabin windows. Avoid hats and loose items around the aircraft.
Where do flights depart from?
Our main base is Nepean Aerospace Park in Castlereagh, with free secure parking. Pickup from Mascot or Bankstown may also be available by arrangement.
Can I take photos and video?
Yes. We encourage you to capture the experience, following any instructions from your pilot or ground crew.
Can you pick me up from private property?
Potentially. We need landowner permission and must assess whether the landing area is safe and suitable. Contact us with the location and we will review it.
Do you fly at night?
Yes, subject to the type of operation, aircraft and applicable flight rules. Contact our team to discuss your requirements.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellation and weather terms vary by booking type. Please review the current Terms and Conditions before booking or contact our team for clarification.
Ready to fly with us?
Explore scenic flights and destination experiences, or talk to our team about a private charter or specialist operation.
