Coastal Helicopters Alaska

Coastal Helicopters began in the summer of 1988 as a division of Alaska Coastal Airlines, flying a Bell Jet Ranger for the US Forest Service. Jim and Dot Wilson later bought the assets and formed Coastal Helicopters, Inc. The company, based in Juneau, Alaska, says it has grown to a fleet of 13 helicopters. In 1996 Jim Wilson became the first Alaskan since 1960 to receive the Helicopter Association International Pilot of the Year award.

Tours

• Glacier Helicopter Tour: about 2.5 hours with a glacier landing, from 429 dollars
• Juneau Dog Sledding Tour: about 3 hours, from 709 dollars
• Dog Sled Tour with Additional Glacier Landing: about 3.5 hours, from 839 dollars
• Private Glacier Helicopter Tour: about 2.5 hours, from 3,140 dollars

Tour dates depend on weather and snow conditions, and prices are as listed on the website.

Charter and contract flying

Coastal offers private charters and contract flying 365 days a year, specialising in commercial and industrial helicopter work in Alaska. The about page lists work for the US Forest Service, AT&T, Alaska Electric Light & Power and Alaska Power & Telephone, as well as heli skiing support for Pulseline Adventures and Seaba Heli in winter. Additional services include construction, search and rescue, logistic support for logging, helicopter skiing and photographer charters.

Company facts

• Founded: 1988
• Fleet: 13 helicopters, as stated on the site
• Programs: Vertical Aviation International Fly Neighborly Program and Tour Operators Program of Safety (TOPS)
• Memberships include the Alaska Air Carriers Association, Travel Juneau and the Juneau Chamber of Commerce

Contact

Phone: (907) 789-5610 for tours, (907) 789-5600 for charters