helijet or float plane - march 1
 

Hello all:<BR><BR>I am trying to decide whether I should go by float plane or helijet from Vancouver harbour to Victoria Harbour. The recc. on these boards seem to be for the float plane b/c they land closer to victoria harbour. But, I am wondering if I should choose the helicopter in case there is bad weather. I will be flying March 1.<BR><BR>Thank you.

You could almost toss a coin. True the copters fly when the harbour visibility is less than desirable and that could sway your decision but in most cases really bad weather grounds both means.

I prefer float planes but in this case, if I had to prebook, maybe I'd go with the helijet. If it's a round trip, you could always see how the weather is looking before deciding on which to go with for the flight back. The helijet pad is really not far from the inner harbour but with luggage you'd probably want to get a taxi.

Hi Gary and April,<BR><BR>Thanks for your replies.<BR><BR>Do you think I should reserve the helijet now or wait until I get to Vancouver (where i am spending three days) to book the float plane (and get an idea of the weather).<BR><BR>thanks.

Weekdays are very busy for the planes and copters and most flights sell out. But 24 hours is usually sufficient for a reservation. Because there is much less demand on weekends there are fewer flights so usually those flights are full as well but 24 hours should be sufficient and 48 hours will pretty well guarantee you the time you want.

Last time we took the float plane with Harbour Air we reserved. We arrived early though and were able to switch flights because hardly anyone was there. It was in August but I can't remember whether it was a Friday or Saturday. At any rate, the float plane people seem quite accommodating.<BR><BR>I checked with West Coast Air. If they can't fly because of poor weather, you get your money back. If you can't make the flight for some reason, they appreciate a phone call as soon as possible and you also get your money back. So, if it were me, I would go ahead and reserve the flight with no worries.