Flying tours is one of the most enjoyable aspects of our pilot’s job, as they get to share the breathtaking views of Cape Town with people from above. Ensuring that each tour is safe and enjoyable is a top priority, and this heavily relies on favorable weather conditions. There are certain factors that they try to avoid when conducting flights.
Firstly, rain poses challenges such as reduced visibility and potential damage to the aircraft, so it is best to steer clear of it whenever possible. Another hindrance to flying tours is thunderstorms, which bring intense winds, lightning, hail, and heavy rain. However, not all thunderstorms lead to tour cancellations. Sometimes, a brief postponement can result in improved weather conditions within an hour or even 30 minutes.
Having excellent visibility grants photographers the advantage of spotting potential photographic opportunities as they arise. From picturesque landscapes to unexpected wildlife encounters or architectural marvels, being able to see far into the distance enhances your ability to anticipate captivating moments before they pass by. It enables you to prepare your equipment and compose your shots promptly, seizing those fleeting instances that often result in truly remarkable images.
Cloudy days do not necessarily prevent them from flying either. Often, the skies may be overcast but with high cloud ceilings that do not impact the flight experience. However, low cloud ceilings and persistent fog make it impossible for them to take off due to poor visibility.
Table Mountain, one of the most iconic landmarks in South Africa, stands majestically overlooking the city of Cape Town. Its flat-topped peak has captivated locals and tourists alike for centuries. However, there are times when this magnificent mountain becomes elusive, veiled by a mystical phenomenon that occurs during periods of high winds – clouds enveloping its summit.
When strong gusts sweep across the region, an ethereal scene unfolds on Table Mountain. The powerful winds push moist air up the steep slopes, causing it to condense and form dense clouds around the mountaintop. These clouds gracefully cascade down its sides, shrouding the entire peak and obscuring any view from above.
Many people wonder how wind affects their tour experience. Surprisingly, wind does not have a significant impact as the R44 helicopter is designed to handle turbulence effectively. Even on gusty days, passengers often forget there is any wind at all during their flight. Only in rare cases where high winds persist will flying be prevented.
It’s worth noting that helicopter tours are not limited to warm weather; they operate throughout winter too! Taking a tour during wintertime offers a unique and beautiful experience. Contrary to common perception, helicopters actually perform better in winter than in summer. Customers need not worry about the cold temperature affecting their flight enjoyment.
In the event adverse weather conditions mentioned above occur during a scheduled tour, resulting in its cancellation, they are more than willing to work with customers and reschedule for a time when weather conditions are more suitable. While they cannot control the weather, they strive to accommodate everyone and ensure their tour is an unforgettable experience.
We look forward to taking you to the skies!
