Alpine Air Alaska

Imagine seeing the pristine beauty of the North from a bird's-eye view. Alpine Air Alaska is a leading helicopter company located in the picturesque town of Girdwood, turning dreams of flight into reality. Located just 40 minutes from Anchorage, this spot serves as a gateway to the majestic glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the USA.

Alpine Air Alaska. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Founded in 1991, the company was a pioneer, introducing Robinson helicopters to Alaska for the first time. Today, it is recognized as a leader in flightseeing across Southcentral Alaska. It's more than just a transport service; it's a true guide to the wilderness, offering unique helicopter tours, landings on ancient glaciers, and even summer dog sledding on alpine snow.

Travelers choose Alpine Air Alaska for its high professionalism and the chance to reach places inaccessible by land. The pilots' vast experience and impeccable reputation make it a must-visit for anyone seeking the true spirit of Alaskan adventure.

For flight details or to book a tour, you can use the following contact information:

The main draw here is, without a doubt, the helicopter tours. You can choose a 30-minute introductory flight or go on a longer journey with a landing right on an ancient glacier. From above, you'll see incredible views of the jagged Chugach Range peaks and the sparkling waters of Prince William Sound. Watching massive walls of ice meet the ocean is a sight that stays with you forever.

During the summer months, the company offers a truly exclusive experience — dog sledding on the Punchbowl Glacier. After a short flight, you'll arrive at a training camp to meet energetic Alaskan huskies. These dogs are managed by the team of famous Iditarod champion Mitch Seavey. Riding a sled along a snowy two-kilometer loop surrounded by icy mountains is a unique experience available to very few.

For those looking for something extra special, Alpine Air Alaska organizes custom events. These can include romantic helicopter weddings on a mountaintop, fishing expeditions to remote spots, or extreme heli-rafting. Even if you just want to spot wildlife — like bears or mountain goats — the pilots know the best vantage points.

Getting to the Alpine Air Alaska base at 599 Mount Hood Drive is quite simple, and the drive from Anchorage is considered one of the most scenic in the world. Head south on the Seward Highway, then turn left onto the Alyeska Highway. About 2.3 miles after the turn, follow signs toward the local airport on Donner Road, then turn left on Davos and right on Mt. Hood. The company office is located in the last hangar on the airport road.

If you don't plan on renting a car, the company offers a convenient shuttle transfer from Anchorage. During the winter (November to March), the shuttle runs on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays; during the summer season (April to October), it operates daily. The transfer service must be booked in advance when reserving your tour.

Local taxi services are also available in town to quickly get you to the airport from any hotel or restaurant. Public transport is limited in this area, so a personal vehicle or an organized transfer are the best options for travelers.

The history of Alpine Air Alaska began in 1991, when Keith Essex founded the company in a small town. Initially, the focus was on fixed-wing aircraft flights, helping locals reach the state's most remote and inaccessible corners. However, the region's harsh and unpredictable weather prompted a crucial decision — a transition to helicopter technology.

Thanks to their maneuverability and ability to land almost anywhere, helicopters became the perfect tool for exploring Alaska. Notably, Alpine Air Alaska was the first company to bring Robinson helicopters to the region. This decision largely set the standards for the entire flightseeing industry in Southcentral Alaska.

With over three decades of operation, the company has earned a reputation as a safety expert. Today, it doesn't just transport tourists; it's also an official Robinson Helicopter Service Center, providing complex maintenance and repairs. Their accumulated experience allows pilots to navigate challenging mountain terrain with confidence, ensuring maximum comfort for guests.

The duration of your adventure depends entirely on your chosen program. If you're planning a classic 30-minute flightseeing tour, allow about 1 hour for the whole visit. This includes check-in, the mandatory safety briefing, and the tour itself.

For more extensive programs, such as glacier landings or summer dog sledding, you'll need significantly more time — from 2 to 2.5 hours. This allows you to enjoy the unique landscapes without rushing, spend time with the huskies, and take stunning photos on the eternal ice. Either way, this adventure will be a highlight of your day.

The Alpine Air Alaska base is open daily, welcoming guests from Monday to Sunday. Office hours are from 08:00 to 18:00. This convenient schedule allows you to plan both early morning departures and evening sunset flights.

However, since all flights are strictly weather-dependent, we highly recommend checking the current flight status on the company's official website or contacting the office by phone before heading out. In the event of heavy fog or wind, departure times may be adjusted.

After a breathtaking flight over the glaciers, it's time for a change of pace and a chance to enjoy the local hospitality. Exploring the surroundings will help you soak up more of the Alaskan atmosphere and discuss your experience over a cup of coffee or a delicious dinner.