What-To-Do in Panama City Beach Issue no. 1 2025-2026 - Magazine - Page 6
When it comes to unforgettable experiences in
Panama City Beach, Panhandle Helicopter offers
something truly unique — a chance to see the
Emerald Coast from the sky. Since opening in 2008,
this family-owned company has been giving locals
and visitors a bird’s-eye view of the Gulf’s turquoise
waters, white sandy beaches, and winding coastline. From romantic sunset flights to quick scenic
tours, their goal is to make every flight safe, comfortable, and absolutely memorable.
From the moment you step onto the tarmac,
you can tell that Panhandle Helicopter isn’t just
about sightseeing — it’s about creating moments
that linger long after you land. The staff is known
for being friendly and professional, taking the time
to make even first-time flyers feel at ease. Safety
is their top priority, and every pilot is commercially
rated with years of experience. Their helicopters
are kept in excellent condition, and each flight is
operated to the highest standards of maintenance
and safety.
Whether you’re flying solo, with family, or surprising someone special, the experience feels
personal and welcoming. The atmosphere is laidback and local, and the entire team takes pride in
sharing the beauty of Panama City Beach from an
aerial point of view.
WhatToDoInPanamaCityBeach.com
Panhandle Helicopter offers a variety of tours so
you can choose the experience that fits your mood,
time, and budget. The shortest ride, known as the
Intro Tour, is perfect for first-timers or families with
small children. It’s a quick 5-minute flight that gives
you just enough time to feel the thrill of lifting off
and gliding over the coast.
If you want a little more adventure, the Miracle
Strip Tour adds extra mileage and takes you along
the beachfront, past local landmarks like the city
and county piers. You’ll see stretches of coastline,
waves breaking on the sand, and maybe even spot
dolphins or stingrays swimming below.
For those looking to see more of the area, the
longer tours — such as Run to the Pass or the Shell
Island Tour — expand the view. You’ll soar over
Shell Island, the pass, and untouched stretches
of nature that are difficult to access by car. It’s a
breathtaking way to see the Gulf’s vibrant ecosystem, and every trip offers a new perspective on the
region’s beauty.
Panhandle Helicopter isn’t only about tours.
They also offer flight training for those who want
to go beyond being a passenger. Students can
work toward private, recreational, or commercial
licenses, learning from experienced pilots who
know the ins and outs of helicopter aviation.
