Helicopter Filming
Large-scale aerial cinematography with gyro-stabilized camera systems across Canada.
Helicopter filming delivers dramatic aerial perspectives with the payload capacity, flight endurance, and altitude range that drones cannot match. In Canada, helicopters equipped with gyro-stabilized mounts capture sweeping vistas over the Rocky Mountains, Banff and Jasper national parks, the BC coastline, Atlantic Canada shores, the Great Lakes, and Arctic landscapes where polar wildlife roam.
We coordinate helicopter filming with Transport Canada-certified aviation operators and experienced aerial cinematographers across Canada. Our team handles Transport Canada SFOC flight authorizations, NAV CANADA airspace coordination, Parks Canada approvals, and safety planning — so your production captures breathtaking footage from Toronto to Vancouver, Montreal to the Yukon, while meeting the highest aviation standards.
Complete Helicopter Services
From epic establishing shots to high-speed chase sequences, our helicopter teams deliver cinema-quality aerial footage for large-scale productions.
Cinematic Aerials
- • Epic establishing shots
- • High-speed chase sequences
- • Extended aerial takes
- • Long-range travel shots
- • Large-scale landscape coverage
Camera Systems
- • Gyro-stabilized mounts
- • Cineflex & Shotover systems
- • ARRI & RED cinema cameras
- • Long-range zoom lenses
- • Real-time video downlink
Aviation Compliance
- • Transport Canada SFOC authorization
- • NAV CANADA airspace coordination
- • NOTAMs & flight plans
- • Full aviation insurance
- • Safety documentation
Safety & Coordination
- • Experienced film pilots
- • Ground safety teams
- • Air-to-ground communication
- • Weather monitoring
- • Emergency protocols
Aerial Cinematography Expertise
When should I choose helicopter over drone filming?
Helicopters are ideal for extended aerial takes across the Rockies, high-speed sequences, shots requiring heavy cinema cameras, long-range coverage across Canada's vast distances, and situations where drones cannot operate due to Transport Canada regulations or payload requirements. For quick setups and lower altitudes, drones may be more cost-effective.
What camera systems do you use for helicopter filming?
We operate gyro-stabilized systems including Cineflex and Shotover mounts, which can carry ARRI, RED, and other cinema cameras. These systems provide rock-steady footage even during dynamic flight maneuvers and allow remote camera control.
Can you film over cities like Toronto or Vancouver?
Yes, with proper authorization. Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal have strict controlled airspace rules, but we can obtain permits for helicopter filming with advance planning. We coordinate with Transport Canada, NAV CANADA, and local authorities to secure necessary approvals.
What types of helicopters do you use?
We work with various helicopter types depending on your requirements—from smaller aircraft for tight mountain maneuvers to larger helicopters for heavy camera systems and extended flights across Canadian wilderness. Aircraft selection depends on shot requirements, locations, and payload needs.
How do you handle air-to-ground coordination?
We use professional radio communication systems for real-time coordination between helicopter crew and ground teams. Directors can communicate with pilots and camera operators, and we provide video downlink for live monitoring of aerial shots.
How far in advance should we book helicopter filming?
We recommend 3-4 weeks minimum for helicopter operations to allow time for Transport Canada SFOC authorizations and coordination. Shoots in national parks, over Parliament Hill, or requiring multiple aircraft may need longer lead times.
Need Helicopter Filming?
Tell us about your aerial requirements and we'll coordinate experienced helicopter teams.