Whew! What a summer it was. I'm just now catching my breath and reflecting on how hectic helicopter bookings were. Just a few years ago, it was a steady stream of calls asking for flights. This time it was non-stop. Through it all, a few things came to light. The biggie was lack of available flights. I tried my darndest to get people on board but when there are no seats it's a tough battle.

This was particularly true for folks who fell into what I call the 72-hour zone. Translation: If you try to get a heli tour within three days of the flight date, it's either not going to happen or you're going to pay a premium. I've been preaching advance bookings for ages. And, because it's such sound advice, here goes again: "Book your Vegas helicopter at least a week in advance." If you can do it two weeks out, you're golden.

Deep Pockets

I know it's tough to plan tours when you travel. But this is an instance where it really does pay. Case in point: If you buy a seat within 72 hours, you'll typically pay up to $30 more per person. Or worse, you'll have to opt for full-retail price that can be up to 65 percent more expensive! You can really appreciate this increase if you are getting tickets for two or more people. Imagine, for example, having to pay an additional $100 for two people! And it goes up from there.

Yet I still expect folks to call last minute. In anticipation of that, I've added a number of new vendors that we work with. They aren't cheap but at least you'll get airborne. And for some people, that's the goal, regardless of what the price is. Thus I'm eager to test all this and see if we here at Grand Canyon 123 can get a 100 percent booking rate for you guys.

I'm also convinced that during summer early morning landing flights are the way to go. It's just too hot at the West Rim to go later than 12 p.m. The reason for this is that it's hotter at the bottom of the canyon than it is at the top. I know, it seems odd, but stew on it and it will make sense. Moreover, the "early bird" flights, which depart at 7 a.m. are actually a great flight. The issue is getting up in the morning for the shuttle.

Pick Up Points

Which brings me up to pick up points. I had a few situations where folks missed the shuttle. Some, indeed, had enjoyed the night before a little to hard. In most cases, however, it had to do with not reading the pick up point instructions on the confirmation letter. My recommendation is that you a) print and pack your confirmation letter; b) read the pick up point; and c) verify it with your hotel's concierge the night before. This works really well and takes a lot of stress out of the day.

Few folks wrote me about the shuttle out to Boulder City, NV. Personally, I don't mind the drive. Usually takes about 30 minutes from Vegas. But more importantly, if you want that budget flight, you have to take a heli that departs from Boulder. It's the nature of the business. That said, if you want convenience, take a flight that goes from a Vegas Strip terminal. It will cost you but you a) get a better aircraft and b) you transit time from hotel to terminal is 10 minutes.

Promo Codes

I want to wrap on promo codes. I get lots of requests for them. Unfortunately, it seems many of them have expired. Or, based on my research, all have expired. If you are able to use a promo code, hit me up in chat or email and let me know. The goal of this site is to create a sense of community and paying it forward so offering up a valid would be awesome for all readers.

OK, that's where things stand for now. Stay tuned for more. And make sure to get airborne!

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Travel on!

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