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

January 14, 2026

Raise the Stakes with a Helicopter Golf Ball Drop

View from a helicopter cockpit looking over a runway. Pilot's feet on pedals, control stick and gauges visible.

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.


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