PRIVATE AVIATION | LOGISTICS

Private Helicopter Charter

& Custom Hire

Your Schedule. Your Route. Pilot-Direct. Premium whole-aircraft aviation.
Pilot-Direct Planning

No call centre. We build the plan with you — timing, routing, landing options.

Right Aircraft Match

Comfort + margin. Aircraft allocation based on payload, heat and mission profile.

CHARTER, CLARIFIED

True private aviation

simplified.

Bekaa Air provides comprehensive helicopter charter solutions for those who require more than a standard A-to-B transfer. Whether you need a multi-stop executive itinerary, access to a remote private property, or a discreet wedding arrival, we build the mission around your needs.

Unlike brokers, you deal directly with the flight operations team. We handle the complex logistics—including landing site permissions (ALI) and weight & balance—to ensure your flight is safe, legal, and perfectly timed.

What charter gives you
Whole-aircraft privacy
Pilot-direct planning
Remote property access
Multi-leg itineraries
No broker fees
How it differs from tours
Not fixed scenic loops
Not shared seating
Not per-person pricing
Not one-size aircraft fit
More flexibility by design

HOW IT WORKS

The process

handled professionally.

01
Mission Profile
Send us your route, passenger count, and preferred timing. Whether it’s a simple transfer or a multi-leg day trip, we assess the most efficient aircraft for the job.
02
Operational Assessment
Our pilots review landing site feasibility, weather patterns, and payload margins. We provide a fixed-price quote with no hidden fees.
03
Dispatch & Flight
Once confirmed, you receive a detailed itinerary. Your aircraft is dispatched to the nearest suitable takeoff point—airport, helipad, or private acreage.

MISSION TYPES

Choose your mission

we do the rest.

AIRCRAFT MATCHING

The right aircraft

for the job.

Robinson R44
Best value • 1–3 pax • Quick private hops.

4 Seat / 3 Passenger Configuration
Cruise 105-110kt
2.5hrs endurance (With fixed reserves)

Bell 206L3 LongRanger
4–6 pax • Club Seating • Spacious boot.
7  Seat / 6 Passenger Configuration
Cruise 110kt
2.2hrs endurance (With fixed reserves)
Airbus H125 (AS350) FX2 🐿️
High Payload • Forged Carbon • High performance.

6 Seat / 5 Passenger Configuration
Cruise 115/130kt (Economy / Max Cont)
2.7hrs endurance (With fixed reserves)
Empty weight 1369kg (Without hook / Aux Equipment)
Maximum weight 2250kg internal / 2500kg external

SERVICE AREA

Frequent

charter routes.

Main base: Archerfield Airport (Brisbane).

While we fly anywhere in QLD & NSW, these are our most requested charter routes.

  • Brisbane to Byron Bay
  • Gold Coast Transfers
  • Scenic Rim Wineries
  • Noosa and Byron Bay Weekend Trips
  • Brisbane to Toowoomba
  • Custom Rural Flights
  • Sunshine Coast Charters

KNOWLEDGE BASE

Common Charter

questions answered.

How much does a helicopter charter cost?

Pricing is based on flight time and aircraft type, not per person. Entry-level machines (R44) typically start around the $900-$1,100/hr mark, while turbine executive aircraft (LongRanger/Squirrel) range from $1,800-$2,800+/hr. We provide fixed quotes prior to booking.

Can a helicopter land in my backyard or property?

Yes, provided the site is suitable. We generally require a clear area of 30m x 30m, flat ground, and no overhead wires. Our pilots will perform a Google Earth assessment and check for written landowner permission before confirming.

What luggage can we bring on the helicopter?

Space is limited. Soft duffel bags are preferred over hard suitcases. The R44 has limited storage (backpacks only), while the Bell LongRanger and H125 Squirrel can accommodate larger items like golf clubs or overnight bags. Let us know your luggage load in advance.

Are there weight limits for passengers?

Yes. Helicopters have strict “Maximum Take-Off Weight” limits. We must weigh all passengers and luggage prior to departure. Individual seat limits also apply (typically 130kg, though this varies by aircraft). Accurate weights ensure a legal and safe flight.

Is helicopter charter safe?

Bekaa Air operates under a stringent Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) issued by CASA. Our aircraft are maintained to commercial standards, and our pilots are commercially licensed with specific training in off-airport decision-making.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Aviation is weather-dependent. If low cloud, heavy rain, or strong winds prevent a safe flight, we will either delay the departure, reschedule, or offer a full refund. Your pilot makes the final safety call on the morning of the flight.

Can you fly at night?

No. Single-engine helicopter charter is restricted to “Day VFR” (Visual Flight Rules) by CASA regulations. This means we must land at least 10 minutes before absolute sunset. We strictly schedule all charters to complete within daylight hours.

How far in advance should I book?

For weekends and special events (Weddings/Proposals), we recommend booking 2-4 weeks in advance. For weekday corporate transfers, we can often accommodate requests with 24-48 hours notice, subject to aircraft availability.

Where is the departure point?

Our main base is Archerfield Airport (Brisbane), which offers free parking and a comfortable departure lounge. We can also arrange pickups from Brisbane Domestic/International Airports, the Gold Coast, or private properties pending approval.

Do you fly to Byron Bay and NSW?

Yes. We frequently fly cross-border routes including Brisbane to Byron Bay, Ballina, and Cabarita (Halcyon House). We handle the flight plans and airspace clearances required for interstate travel.

How many passengers can fit in one helicopter?

Our fleet ranges from the Robinson R44 (3 passengers), the Bell LongRanger (6 passengers), to the Airbus H125 (5 passengers). For groups larger than 6, we coordinate “formation flights” using multiple aircraft.

Is there a minimum age for children?

No minimum age, but infants (under 3) must be secured with an approved restraint or held by an adult depending on specific aircraft belts. Children over 3 require their own seat. We recommend ear protection for all children (which we provide).

Can I bring my dog or pet?

No. Due to strict safety regulations and cabin configuration, we do not carry pets on our charter flights. This ensures the safety of all passengers and the integrity of the aircraft interior.

What is the difference between R44 and Turbine helicopters?

The R44 is a piston-engine helicopter (cost-effective, 3 pax). Turbine helicopters (LongRanger/Squirrel) use jet engines, offering a smoother ride, more power, and higher passenger capacity. Both are excellent, but turbines are faster for longer trips.

Can we land at a winery for lunch?

Absolutely. We have approvals for many major wineries across the Scenic Rim, Sirromet, and the Gold Coast Hinterland. If you have a specific boutique venue in mind, we can contact them to organize a landing.

Do you offer 'Doors Off' flights?

Yes, primarily for aerial photography or filming missions. This is usually done in the R44 or H125. Please request this at the time of booking as it requires removing equipment before the aircraft leaves the hangar.

Is there air conditioning?

Yes. All our aircraft, including the Robinson R44 and our turbine fleet, are equipped with air-conditioning systems to ensure passenger comfort during Queensland summers.

What is the cancellation policy?

If *we* cancel due to weather/safety, you get a full refund or reschedule. If *you* cancel, we generally require at least 24 hours notice for a refund. Cancellations made within 24 hours of flight time may forfeit the booking fee.

Can I fly the helicopter?

No. We are a dedicated commercial charter operation, not a flight training school. Passengers are not permitted to manipulate the controls at any time. Your pilot will handle all aspects of the flight.

How fast do the helicopters fly?

Our fleet cruises between 180km/h (100 knots) and 240km/h (130 knots). This makes helicopters significantly faster than driving, especially when bypassing Brisbane or Gold Coast traffic congestion.

THE BEKAA DIFFERENCE

Why clients choose

Bekaa Air.

Direct Operator, No Brokers

Most “charter” sites are just sales agents. We own the aircraft, we employ the pilots, and you book directly with the experts. Lower cost, higher accountability, peace of mind.

CASA Certified Safety

We operate under a strict Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC). Maintenance is tracked to the fraction of an hour, and pilots are trained in complex decision-making. Safety is our currency.

100% Private Guarantee

We do not sell “per seat” tickets. When you book Bekaa, the entire aircraft is yours. No strangers, no waiting for late passengers. Total discretion.

Custom Landing Access

We don’t just fly airport-to-airport. We specialise in off-field landings at private properties, wineries, and remote sites. We are experts in off field risk assessments and making it happen

Precision Timing

Weddings and corporate schedules don’t wait. We pride ourselves on “skids down” exactly when planned. We factor in wind and airspace to ensure your run-sheet is met.

Premium Fleet Presentation

Our aircraft are immaculate. Leather interiors, air-conditioning, and noise-canceling headsets are standard. We present the aircraft to a “VIP standard”.