summerskyz-helicopter-flight-training

Golf Ball Drops by Helicopter: How It Works and Why It Wows

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 13:22:16 GMT

Raise the Stakes with a Helicopter Golf Ball Drop

Looking to make your next fundraiser or golf tournament truly unforgettable? A helicopter golf ball drop combines aerial excitement with community engagement, making it one of the most crowd-pleasing event features in the Chicago area.

At SummerSkyz, we specialize in organizing safe, thrilling golf ball drops from helicopters that wow spectators, increase donations, and make your event stand out. Here’s how it works, what it costs, and why it’s becoming the go-to addition for fundraisers across Illinois and Northwest Indiana.

What Is a Golf Ball Drop by Helicopter?

A helicopter golf ball drop is a raffle-style fundraiser where numbered golf balls are sold to participants. At the event, all the balls are dropped from a helicopter onto a designated hole or target on the golf course. The ball that lands closest to (or in) the hole wins a prize!

It Combines:

Aerial entertainment
Raffle-based fundraising
Live crowd engagement
A visual spectacle from above

This works well for schools, nonprofits, sports teams, churches, and corporate charity events.

How the Process Works

Step 1: Sell the Balls

Organizations typically sell balls for $5–$50 each, depending on the prize. Each ball is labeled with a unique number tied to the buyer.

Step 2: Schedule the Drop

You pick the time, date, and drop location—usually a golf course green, field, or large target.

Step 3: SummerSkyz Handles the Flight

We arrive with the golf balls, fly above the target, and drop them at a safe altitude for max impact and visibility.

Step 4: Announce the Winner

The ball closest to the target wins! Many events offer 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes.

Why It Wows at Events

1. Unique Fundraising Twist

Moves beyond bake sales or silent auctions to offer something unforgettable.

2. Visual & Interactive

Guests love the aerial show and the suspense of the drop.

3. High ROI for Nonprofits

Low cost, high engagement. Events can raise thousands in a single drop.

4. Customizable Prizes & Branding

Add sponsor banners, branded balls, or combine with other event attractions.

Pricing for Helicopter Golf Ball Drops

Costs vary based on drop location, flight time, and number of balls.

Typical Package (Starting at $799):

Helicopter fly-in and drop
Up to 1,000 golf balls
Pre-event consultation
FAA-compliant flight planning
Event-day coordination

Optional Add-Ons:

Branded golf balls (add your logo)
Second drop pass
Announcer or emcee coordination
Drone video or professional photographer

Safety Is Always Our Priority

SummerSkyz follows strict FAA guidelines for aerial event drops. Our pilots are trained for precision release and safe altitude protocols. The drop zone is secured and cleared prior to release, ensuring a fun and controlled experience.

Key Safety Features:

Safe altitude clearance (approved for events)
Designated drop zones marked clearly
Pre-event planning to coordinate flight path

Ideal Events for Golf Ball Drops

Golf tournaments
School fundraisers
Nonprofit galas
Church picnics
Community festivals
Corporate charity events

FAQ: Helicopter Golf Ball Drop Events

Q: Do we supply the golf balls?
You can, or we can source numbered balls and deliver them on the day of the drop.

Q: How far in advance should we book?
We recommend 3–4 weeks in advance to ensure flight approval and ball prep.

Q: How do people enter the raffle?
You sell the ball numbers as tickets; each buyer is assigned a number that matches a ball in the drop.

Q: Can we do more than one drop in a day?
Yes! We can schedule multiple drops at different times or locations.

Q: Can we brand the drop for sponsors?
Absolutely. This is a great way to give event sponsors visibility and signage.

Book a Helicopter Drop That Leaves a Lasting Impression

Whether you're organizing a charity golf event or planning a creative school fundraiser, SummerSkyz offers reliable, exciting helicopter golf ball drops across the Chicago area.

Why Candy Drops by Helicopter Are the New Must-Have for Kids' Parties

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 14:16:31 GMT

Turn Your Party Into an Aerial Spectacle with a Helicopter Candy Drop

Looking for a one-of-a-kind way to delight kids at your next event? A helicopter candy drop takes traditional party fun to sky-high levels. Whether you're planning a birthday bash, school celebration, or local festival, this unique service drops candy or toys from a hovering helicopter—turning your gathering into a thrilling experience no one will forget.

At SummerSkyz, we specialize in safe, crowd-pleasing candy drops across Illinois, Chicago, and Northwest Indiana. Here’s why more families, schools, and event organizers are choosing this aerial surprise.

What Is a Helicopter Candy Drop?

A candy drop is exactly what it sounds like: a helicopter flies over your event location and drops pre-packaged candy or small toys from above, showering kids with excitement.

What We Can Drop:

Candy (individually wrapped only)
Mini toys or balls
Easter eggs (seasonal)
Custom promotional items

This is 100% safe when handled by licensed pilots following FAA-approved flight procedures. We maintain a safe altitude and use biodegradable, kid-safe packaging when needed.

Why Kids (and Parents) Love It

1. It’s a Total Surprise

There’s nothing like hearing the sound of chopper blades and watching colorful candy rain from the sky.

2. It Creates a Magical Atmosphere

Kids' eyes light up, parents snap once-in-a-lifetime photos, and everyone talks about it for weeks.

3. It Scales for Any Event Size

From intimate backyard birthdays to massive school field days, we tailor each drop to match your space and crowd size.

4. It’s Customizable

You pick the drop contents, the timing, and even music or announcements.

Ideal Events for Candy Drops

Birthday parties
Back-to-school events
Summer camps
Fundraisers or community festivals
Easter egg hunts
Church or youth group events
Holiday celebrations (Halloween, Christmas, etc.)
Corporate family days or customer appreciation events

Candy drops add energy and buzz to any gathering.

How to Plan Your Helicopter Candy Drop with SummerSkyz

Step 1: Choose Your Location

We can drop over:

Parks and open fields
Large backyards
School playgrounds
Church parking lots
Fairgrounds or community centers

Requirements:

Open space (minimum 100 ft x 100 ft recommended)
Free of powerlines, trees, or other obstacles
Permission from property owner or event sponsor

Step 2: Pick Your Date & Time

Most events last 10–15 minutes for the drop itself
Morning or early evening offers the best light for photos
Weekends book fast, so plan at least 2–3 weeks ahead

Step 3: Decide What to Drop

You can provide candy, toys, or gifts

Step 4: Confirm Logistics

We’ll coordinate everything:

FAA-compliant flight planning
Drop timing and route
Crowd safety and collection zone setup
On-site communication with your team

Pricing for Helicopter Candy Drops

Pricing depends on distance, flight duration, and drop contents.

Typical Candy Drop Package (Starting at $500):

One flyover and candy drop
Covers up to 50-mile radius from Lynwood, IL
Includes pilot, aircraft time, and coordination

Add-Ons Available:

Second pass/drop sequence

We provide quotes based on your event vision and location.

FAQ: Helicopter Candy Drops for Events

Q: Is it safe for kids?
Yes. Drops are coordinated to avoid direct contact, and our team works with yours to mark a safe pickup zone.

Q: Can we choose the type of candy?
All items dropped from the helicopter must be approved for safety.

Q: Do we need permits?
For public parks, schools, or city property, you may need event approval. We can assist with required flight documentation.

Q: How far in advance should we book?
Booking a few weeks in advance is recommended, but we can sometimes accommodate shorter notice depending on availability.

Q: Can you fly over private property?
Yes, with proper clearance and safe conditions.

Q: Can parents or sponsors ride along in the helicopter?
Yes! You can ride along for the drop for a small add-on fee.

Bring the Fun to New Heights

There’s no better way to turn your kids' party or event into something truly spectacular than a helicopter candy drop from SummerSkyz. Our experienced team handles every detail so you can focus on creating amazing memories for your guests.

Call to book: (708) 793-2894
Learn More or Inquire Online: https://www.summerskyz.com/event-drops

Serving Chicago, Northwest Indiana, and suburbs near Lansing, IL

Discover Chicago from Above with the Best in the Sky

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 14:37:32 GMT

Discover Chicago from Above with the Best in the Sky

Looking for the best helicopter rides in Chicago ? Whether you're celebrating a special moment or simply want to see the Windy City like never before, SummerSkyz Helicopter Flight Training delivers the highest quality flight experiences in the region. From the moment you lift off to the second you touch down, you’ll understand why locals and tourists alike choose SummerSkyz for their unforgettable sky-high adventures.

What Sets SummerSkyz Apart from Other Helicopter Tour Companies?

1. Convenient Location Outside Downtown

Avoid city congestion and parking hassles. SummerSkyz operates from a private heliport at 3259 Glenwood Lansing Rd in Lynwood, IL , just outside Chicago’s limits. It’s an easy drive from downtown, South Suburbs, and Northwest Indiana.

2. Affordable Flat-Rate Pricing

While many companies charge by flight time or hidden fees, SummerSkyz offers simple, flat-rate pricing for a full 35-minute, 50-mile helicopter ride over Chicago. No surprises. Just skyline views and smooth skies.

3. FAA-Certified Safety Standards

Your safety is our top priority. Our pilots are highly experienced and FAA-certified, and every helicopter undergoes routine maintenance and inspections per federal regulations.

4. Unique Aerial Services Beyond Tours

Unlike many tour-only operators, SummerSkyz offers:

Gender reveal flights
Helicopter candy and golf ball drops
Aerial videography and photography
Flight training for aspiring pilots

5. Memorable Experience-Driven Flights

We don’t just offer flights; we create memories. Want to propose mid-air? Planning a birthday surprise or anniversary? We'll work with you to customize your ride for the perfect moment.

What You Can Expect on Your Chicago Helicopter Ride

Clear Views of Iconic Landmarks

Willis Tower, John Hancock Center, Millennium Park
Lake Michigan shoreline and Navy Pier
Grant Park, Soldier Field, Museum Campus
Chicago River and historic skyline

Top Features of Every SummerSkyz Tour:

Noise-cancelling headsets with live pilot narration
Climate-controlled cabin for comfort
2-3 passengers per flight for a more private experience
Photo ops before and after your flight

Who Flies with SummerSkyz?

We serve a wide range of customers from across the Midwest:

Couples on date nights and anniversaries
Families visiting Chicago
Photographers and content creators
Event planners hosting gender reveals or golf outings
Future pilots taking intro lessons

Want to see customer stories and photos? Check us out on Instagram and Facebook

Real Stories: What People Are Saying

“We booked a gender reveal flight and it was absolutely breathtaking. The pilot flew right over our family and released the color perfectly! Unforgettable experience.”
– Alyssa R., Chicago, IL

“Best tour I’ve ever taken in the city. The views were insane and the staff was incredibly welcoming.”
– Mark L., Hammond, IN

FAQ: Booking a Helicopter Ride with SummerSkyz

Q: How long are the helicopter rides?
Each tour lasts approximately 35 minutes and covers about 50 miles over downtown Chicago.

Q: How much does a ride cost?
Rates start at $230 per person , one of the best values in the region for the time and distance covered.

Q: Can I book a private or custom flight?
Yes! Private couples' tours, surprise proposals, and event drops can all be customized. Contact us to plan.

Q: Are group or family flights available?
Flights typically accommodate 2–3 passengers. Larger groups can book back-to-back sessions.

Q: Is there free parking at the heliport?
Yes, free parking is available on-site at our Lynwood location.

Book the Best Helicopter Ride in Chicago Today

When it comes to quality, safety, and service, SummerSkyz is your premier choice for helicopter rides in Chicago . Whether it’s your first flight or your fifth, we’ll make it unforgettable.

Call (708) 793-2894
Book Your Flight Online – https://www.summerskyz.com/tours
Serving Chicago, South Suburbs & Northwest Indiana

The Ultimate Chicago Helicopter Tour Guide: What to Expect & How to Prepare

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 15:09:31 GMT

Soaring Above the Windy City: Your Quick Guide to Chicago Helicopter Tours

A Chicago helicopter tour offers unmatched views of the city skyline, iconic landmarks, and Lake Michigan’s shimmering shoreline—all from 1,000 feet above. Whether you're a tourist, local adventurer, or planning a memorable gift, this guide covers everything you need to know before liftoff. From what to wear, to what you'll see, and how to prepare for an unforgettable flight experience, we’ve got you covered.

What Is a Chicago Helicopter Tour Like?

Imagine flying above Navy Pier, seeing the Willis Tower at eye level, and snapping aerial photos of Millennium Park’s Cloud Gate (aka "The Bean"). A helicopter tour of Chicago typically lasts 30–35 minutes and covers about 50 miles of the city's top highlights .

With SummerSkyz Helicopter Tours , flights depart just outside the city in Lansing, IL , making it easy to access the sky without downtown traffic. Each tour is flown by an experienced, FAA-certified pilot who provides real-time narration and insider knowledge of the city’s sights.

Views You Can Expect:

Chicago Skyline (day or night)
Willis Tower, John Hancock Center, and Soldier Field
Lake Michigan waterfront and Navy Pier
Millennium Park, Grant Park, Buckingham Fountain

Historic neighborhoods like Hyde Park and the Gold Coast

Who Should Book a Helicopter Tour?

Helicopter Tour Safety & Comfort

Helicopter rides are a hit with a wide range of audiences:

Couples celebrating anniversaries, birthdays, or proposals
Families looking for a unique weekend adventure
Photographers and social media creators
Visitors seeing Chicago for the first time

Locals looking to rediscover their city from a n ew angle

How to Prepare for Your Flight

Booking a helicopter tour is easy, but preparing properly ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.

1. What to Wear

Dress comfortably for the season. It may be cooler at altitude.
Avoid loose accessories or hats (can be blown away during boarding).
Closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety.

2. When to Fly

Evening flights offer stunning sunset views over the skyline.
Clear days give the best visibility for photos.
Book in advance for weekends and holidays , which fill quickly.

3. What to Bring

Valid ID for check-in
Phone or camera (no flash photography during flight)
Minimal personal belongings (storage is limited)

4. Arrival Tips

Arrive 20–30 minutes early for check-in and safety briefing

Free parking is available at the Lansing heliport location

At SummerSkyz, your safety is our priority. All helicopters undergo routine maintenance and inspections. Pilots are licensed professionals with years of flight experience.

Safety Features Include:

Two-way communication headsets
FAA-approved aircraft
Pre-flight safety briefings

Comfortable, climate-controlled cabins

How Much Does a Chicago Helicopter Tour Cost?

SummerSkyz offers one of the most affordable helicopter tours in the region with a flat rate for 35-minute flights

over Chicago :

Current Rate (as of Oct 2025): $450 flat rate per tour — the total cost covers one or two passengers.
Group discounts and private bookings are also available.

Special Add-On Options

Want to make your tour extra memorable? Consider:

Sunset or night flights for dramatic city lights
Gender reveal flights with colored smoke drops
Private couple’s tour with champagne toast (add-on)
Aerial photography package s

Q: Are helicopter tours safe?

Yes. Our helicopters are FAA-inspected, and pilots are certified professionals with extensive training.

Q: Can I fly at night?

Absolutely! Night flights are available and offer breathtaking skyline views.

Q: How many people can fly at once?

Most tours seat 2–3 passengers per flight. Private tours are available for couples or groups.

Q: Can I reschedule due to bad weather?

Yes. If weather conditions are unsafe, we will work with you to rebook at no extra charge.

Q: Where do flights take off?

All tours depart from our private heliport at 3259 Glenwood Lansing Road, Lansing, IL .

Internal Links:

[Helicopter Tours & Air Rides – https://www.summerskyz.com/tours ]
[Gender Reveal Flights – https://www.summerskyz.com/gender-reveal ]
[Intro Flight Training – https://www.summerskyz.com/helicopter-flight-training ]

External Links:

[FAA Helicopter Safety Guidelines – https://www.faa.gov/faasteam ]
[Chicago Architecture Info – https://www.architecture.org ]

Book Your Chicago Helicopter Tour Today

Ready to take flight? Whether you’re booking a romantic date, birthd ay surprise, or unforgettable family outing, SummerSkyz delivers a one-of-a-kind experience high above the Windy City.

Book Your Helicopter Tour Now – https://www.summerskyz.com/tours
Serving Chicago, Lansing, and Northwest Indiana
Call (708) 793-2894 or email info.summerskyz@gmail.com to reserve