Above the Quarter: New Orleans Helicopter City Tour Over the French Quarter
Lift off from Lakefront Airport and see the French Quarter, St. Louis Cathedral, Bourbon Street and the Mississippi River from a seven‑minute vantage that distills New Orleans’ geography, history and energy. Practical tips—weight limits, meeting point, best times—help you get the most from a compact flight.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive 30 minutes early
Check-in and the mandatory safety briefing take time—plan to arrive at the Lakefront Airport terminal at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Secure cameras and phones
Rotor wash can snatch loose items; use wrist straps or a secured camera harness and put sunglasses in a zipped pocket.
Watch the weight limits
Operators enforce a maximum per-passenger and group weight—honest reporting during booking keeps flights safe and on schedule.
Book golden hour for photos
Early evening or sunrise light softens rooftops and reflects off the river—reserve these slots well in advance.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Fly over the Fairgrounds for a different view of Mardi Gras staging areas.
- •Look toward Mid-City to spot Lafayette Cemetery and neighborhood brass-band streets.
Wildlife
- •Brown pelicans near Lake Pontchartrain
- •Ospreys hunting over the lake and river
Conservation Note
The region’s coastal wetlands are eroding; pilots and operators emphasize minimizing low-level flights over sensitive marshes and support local restoration efforts.
The French Quarter dates to French and Spanish colonial planning in the 18th century; from above you can read that grid and the city’s relationship with the Mississippi River.
Photographer's Notes
- • Direct pass over the French Quarter and St. Louis Cathedral
- • Sweep along the Mississippi River bend near the CBD
- • View eastward toward the Causeway Bridge over Lake Pontchartrain
What to Bring
Camera with wrist or neck strapEssential
Secure mounting prevents loss in rotor wash and captures clear aerial shots.
Government-issued IDEssential
Required for check-in at the Lakefront Airport terminal.
Light windbreaker
Even short flights can be cool above the lake, especially in late fall evenings.
Sunglasses
Aids visibility on bright days and reduces glare when shooting across water.
Common Questions
How long is the helicopter tour?
Each flight runs approximately 7–9 minutes of airtime; allow extra time for check-in and the safety briefing.
Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at the Main Terminal Building at New Orleans Lakefront Airport—type the airport name into rideshares for the best directions.
Are there weight restrictions?
Yes—individual passengers above about 295 lbs may not be permitted and groups must meet the aircraft’s total weight limit for safety and balance.
Can infants ride?
Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap and be included in the booking; check the operator’s specific policies when reserving.
What happens if weather cancels the flight?
Flights can be canceled for weather; the operator typically offers a full refund if canceled or allows rescheduling subject to availability.
How many people per helicopter?
Flights accommodate a maximum of three passengers per booking, with a minimum of two required to operate.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7–9 minutes
Location
New Orleans, Louisiana
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
No special fitness required—suitable for most travelers who can sit safely in a small aircraft.
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