The Penzance Helicopter: Fastest Route to the Isles of Scilly
The Penzance helicopter service offers the fastest crossing to the Isles of Scilly at around 15–20 minutes, departing from Penzance Heliport. It is also the only service that flies directly to Tresco — making it uniquely convenient for those staying on or visiting that island. With a maximum of 10 passengers per flight, it offers an experience that feels considerably more personal than a commercial airline.
Choose the right helicopter ticket
- Destination: St Mary’s or a direct flight to Tresco; choose the correct island when booking.
- Island day trip: standard day trips from £199 return; last-minute day trips from £149 return, bookable from 24 hours before travel, subject to availability.
- Scenic flight: from £139 on the day. This is an aerial experience, not time ashore on an island.
- Baggage depends on the ticket: standard adult/child fare: one 20kg soft hold bag plus a 3kg small cabin item. Day trip: a 5kg daypack in the hold. Scenic flight: no luggage.
- Check-in: arrive an hour before departure; check-in closes 45 minutes before. Allow extra time for your journey to the heliport.
- Dogs: arrange in advance by phone; the dog must fit the operator’s crate. Confirm space and fees before booking.
Operator information checked 11 September 2026. Confirm your ticket and current travel instructions before setting off.
The Route
Flights depart from Penzance Heliport, located close to Penzance town centre. The helicopter flies southwest across the Celtic Sea, arriving at St Mary's or — uniquely — Tresco. The crossing takes around 15–20 minutes in normal conditions, making it the fastest option available for reaching the islands.
Parking & getting there: Penzance Heliport is at Long Rock, separate from the rail station and ferry quay. Arrange the operator's station shuttle or a taxi if arriving by train, and check current heliport parking arrangements directly with Penzance Helicopters. A note on noise: helicopter flights are loud both inside the cabin and on the ground. If you are noise-sensitive, or travelling with very young children, factor this in when choosing your transport. Ask the operator about noise levels and suitable hearing protection before booking.
Fares & Day Trips
Day Trip Pricing — Indicative 2026
Subject to availabilityFrom £199
From 24 hours before travel, subject to availabilityFrom £149
A short scenic flight — not a standard island day tripFrom £139
Indicative 2026 fares only. Always confirm current prices directly with penzancehelicopters.co.uk before booking.
The helicopter offers day trips year-round — a significant advantage over the seasonal Scillonian ferry. Time ashore depends on the available outward and return flights; check both before arranging island activities. See our full day trip guide for more detail.
Flying to Tresco
One of the helicopter's most distinctive advantages is direct access to Tresco. No other transport service flies directly to Tresco — visitors using the ferry or Skybus must travel to St Mary's first and then take a boat transfer to Tresco. The helicopter eliminates this step entirely, which can save considerable time and effort, particularly for those staying on Tresco.
Luggage Allowance
Standard tickets: one 20kg hold bag plus a small cabin item
Soft bags only — no rigid suitcases or hard-shell cases
Standard hold bag: up to 70 × 39 × 31 cm. Cabin item: up to 3kg and 30 × 15 × 15 cm.
Day trips: small daypack up to 5kg, stowed in the hold. Scenic flights: no luggage allowance.
Travelling With Dogs
Dogs can be carried onboard the helicopter service
Book in advance through Reservations by phone: 01736 780828
Must fit the operator’s secure onboard crate (larger crate with prior booking)
Capacity & operational factors apply — book early
Confirm current rules & fees with Penzance Helicopters before booking
Is the Helicopter Right For You?
Well suited to
- Those visiting Tresco
- Travellers short on time
- Year-round visitors
- Special occasions & treats
- Those wanting the fastest crossing
Less suited to
- Budget travellers
- Those with rigid suitcases
- Noise-sensitive travellers (flights are loud)
- Groups of more than 10
- Dog owners (limited availability)
Book Direct
Day trip availability is limited — last-minute fares are available from 24 hours before travel. Book in advance for peak dates.
Book via Official SiteStaying overnight in Penzance
Penzance accommodation — before or after Scilly
Many travellers stay a night in Penzance either side of their Scilly crossing — especially ferry passengers with early-morning sailings or late arrivals back on the mainland. This map shows overnight accommodation in and around Penzance. Availability and pricing are provided by the booking partner and change over time; always confirm details directly before booking.
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