Air-tour operators in the United States conduct sightseeing flights from Bar Harbor, Maine to Maui, and from Key West to northern Alaska. Dave Genet, proprietor of St. Augustine Biplane Rides in St. Augustine, Florida (KSGJ), established his business in 2012 with the goal of using historical aircraft — currently a 1935 Cabin Waco YOC — to offer aerial views of North America’s oldest city. “Not only are you flying in a time machine, but you’re flying over one of the most historic places in the U.S., so it’s a perfect match,” Genet says.
How to Become an Air-Tour Operator
Key Takeaways:
- Air-tour operators must comply with Part 91 regulations, requiring an FAA Letter of Authorization (LOA) and participation in a DOT drug and alcohol testing program for all flight and maintenance personnel.
- Pilots need a commercial license, extensive experience with the specific aircraft type, and excellent people skills to ensure passenger comfort, as no dedicated academic training program exists for air-tour piloting.
- A successful air-tour business requires a location with high tourist traffic and aerial points of interest, a supportive airport, and a diverse marketing strategy, with social media often proving most effective for promotion.
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