Helicopter Landing Sites in Sydney

Where can you land a helicopter in Sydney?

Sydney has multiple helicopter landing sites that helicopter operators use for scenic tours, charter flights, pilot training, aerial work, air ambulance, and law enforcement. There are currently four helicopter landing locations in Sydney, including:

Helicopter Landing Sites Sydney

Let's take a closer look at where helicopter companies can operate out of in the Sydney area, along with directions in relation to the Sydney CBD.

Sydney Airport

Kingsford Smith Airport, also known as Sydney Airport, is located approximately 8 kilometres south of Sydney's Central Business District. At an average scenic flight speed of 150 km/h, a flight from the airport to the CBD would take about 3 minutes.

The airport features two helipads, Hotel 1 and Hotel 2, which are strategically positioned to facilitate efficient helicopter operations alongside the airport's three runways.

Helicopter companies operating from Sydney Airport are popular with international visitors for scenic flights over Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and Bondi Beach. Corporate groups often book helicopter tours to the Blue Mountains or Hunter Valley wine region for special events, or request charter flights to locations outside Sydney including the South Coast, Central Coast and regional NSW. The best rated helicopter company in Sydney Airport is Rotor One - Sydney Helicopter Rides.

Bankstown Airport

Bankstown Airport, located roughly 22 kilometres west of Sydney's CBD, serves as a significant centre for general aviation and helicopter activities. A helicopter journey from Bankstown Airport to the CBD would take around 9 minutes at an average speed of 150 km/h.

The airport features multiple helipads, including a primary helipad north of the Runway 11/29 complex, which is essential to the helicopter circuit. This facility supports various operations, from pilot training to emergency services, and is home to organisations like Toll Ambulance Rescue and the NSW Police Airwing (POLAIR), which both operate across several helipads adjacent to the control tower.

This airport has played an important role in Sydney's aviation history, having served as a major military airbase during World War II. Today, it is a hub for over 200 aviation businesses, including fixed-base operators (FBOs) and flight schools.

Bankstown Airport's proximity to Western Sydney also positions it as an essential link for emergency medical services, law enforcement operations, and disaster relief efforts. Scenic flights departing from Bankstown offer a unique perspective on Sydney's western suburbs and nearby natural attractions. Its central location also makes it ideal for airport transfers by helicopter.

Western Sydney Airport (scheduled to be open in 2026)

Western Sydney Airport, also known as Nancy-Bird Walton Airport, is a new international airport located approximately 44 kilometres west of Sydney's CBD. Once operational, a helicopter flight from this airport to the CBD would take around 18 minutes.

The airport is designed to accommodate various aircraft, including provisions for helicopter operations. While detailed information about specific helipad facilities is yet to be released, the airport's infrastructure is expected to support both commercial and general aviation needs.

Rose Bay Seaplane Terminal

Rose Bay Seaplane Terminal is a historic aviation centre, known primarily for its seaplane operations rather than helicopters. However, its strategic location in Sydney Harbour makes it a unique point of interest for aviation enthusiasts.

It is located roughly 7 kilometres east of the Sydney CBD. A helicopter flight from Rose Bay to the CBD would take about 3 minutes at an average speed of 150 km/h.

The terminal was once the location for Australia's first international flying boat service in the 1930s, connecting Sydney to destinations like London. While helicopter-specific facilities aren't available, the terminal's harbour access makes it a hub for water-based aviation activities.

Seaplane and helicopter operators occasionally share the harbour airspace, especially for scenic flights. Flights departing from Rose Bay provide unparalleled views of Sydney Harbour, including the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Taronga Zoo, and are operated by Sydney Seaplanes.

Private Property - Can you land a helicopter on private property? 

Landing a helicopter on private property is possible and can be a flexible and convenient way to reach a specific destination. Before any off-airport landing locations can be approved, a helicopter operator will need to plan and assess the landing site for safety and feasibility, while also ensuring they adhere to legal requirements. The steps to landing a helicopter on private property include:

  1. Getting Written Consent

    The first step is obtaining written permission from the property owner. This is a legal prerequisite and establishes clear communication between the landowner and the helicopter operator.

    It ensures that both parties understand the requirements and potential impacts of the landing. Once permission is secured, the Pilot in Command (PIC) must evaluate whether the site is practical and safe for landing.

    In the event a landing site is located on public land, approval from the relevant local council, state department or federal body would be required. In some cases where public lands have been used for helicopter take-offs and landings in the past, an existing process may be in place to apply for permission.

  2. Assessing Various Factors

    Pilots assess several critical factors, including obstructions like trees, powerlines, and buildings, as well as potential ground hazards such as fences, livestock, or debris.

    The landing surface must be stable and firm enough to support the helicopter, with minimal slope and no loose materials such as sand or gravel, which could pose a hazard due to rotor downwash.

    Environmental conditions, including wind speed, visibility, and weather on the day, also play a crucial role. Strong winds, low visibility, or unsuitable terrain can compromise safety.

  3. Noise Regulations

    Noise and disruption are additional considerations, especially in populated or sensitive areas. Pilots work with property owners to mitigate these impacts and ensure compliance with local noise regulations.

    Reconnaissance flights are often conducted before landing to confirm site dimensions and plan safe approach and departure paths. This allows the pilot to evaluate the site from the air and identify potential risks before touching down.

  4. Ensuring Regulatory Compliance with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority

    Regulatory compliance is essential. Both the helicopter and the pilot must be certified for the intended operation, and in some cases, local authorities may need to be notified.

    Proper documentation, including the landowner's written permission and operational details, may also be required for inspection by aviation authorities.

  5. Agreement from the Helicopter Operator

    Subject to all steps above being completed successfully including obtaining written permission from the land owner, declaring the landing site safe and adequate, mitigating noise to nearby residents and compliance with all aviation laws and regulations, a helicopter operator can agree to using the landing site for a flight.

The Proposed Sydney CBD Helipad

The proposed Sydney CBD helipad at the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour has sparked significant interest as an initiative to rejuvenate tourism and business activity in the heart of the city.

Driven by hotel mogul Dr. Jerry Schwartz, this ambitious project aims to create a rooftop helipad atop the 38-story Sofitel hotel. The plan sees Sydney joining other global cities such as New York, London, and Paris in offering central helipad facilities for rapid urban transportation and aerial tourism, which would also allow for easier airport transfers by helicopter.

Dr. Schwartz has long advocated for this development, citing its potential to bolster Sydney’s tourism and economic recovery post-pandemic. He proposes using the existing city airspace frequently used by helicopters, making this helipad an important part of the city's infrastructure.

However, the project faces many hurdles and opposition, including gaining regulatory approval and addressing community concerns, particularly regarding noise levels, safety, and environmental impact.

The proposed helipad would require comprehensive environmental impact assessments and consultations with local stakeholders, businesses, and residents. If successful, the helipad could serve to modernise Sydney’s urban transport options and improve its status as a world-class city.

Landing Sites Outside Sydney

There are also several helicopter landing sites further outside of Sydney worth looking at.

Lake Macquarie (Central Coast)

Lake Macquarie Airport, formerly known as Belmont Airport, is situated in Marks Point, approximately 130 kilometers north of Sydney's CBD. The airport features a single sealed runway (07/25) measuring 880 meters in length. It serves various aviation activities, including scenic helicopter flights, pilot training, and aeromedical services.

Newcastle Heliport

The Newcastle Heliport, managed by Aerologistics, is approximately 160 km north of Sydney CBD. This heliport supports various activities, including scenic tours and charter flights.

Located near Newcastle's city centre, the facility is equipped for regular helicopter operations with marked landing zones and refueling capabilities.

Its location makes it an important hub for access to the Hunter Region, Port Stephens, and other nearby destinations. Ground connections from the heliport are readily available for travel purposes.

Cessnock Airport (Hunter Valley)

Cessnock Airport, located 160 km north of Sydney CBD, features multiple helipads specifically used by helicopter tour operators.

The airport is well-suited for charter flights and private landings, with clear airspace and dedicated facilities for aviation operations.

It provides direct access to the Hunter Valley, making it a key landing site for wine tours and events. Operators benefit from the airport’s proximity to local attractions and accommodations, with easy logistics for passengers upon landing.

Shellharbour (South Coast)

Shellharbour, approximately 100 km south of Sydney CBD, provides helicopter landing options at the Illawarra Regional Airport. The airport features designated helicopter landing areas and support services for private charters and scenic flights alike.

Its location near key coastal attractions offers convenient access for travelers. Operators use Shellharbour for tours along the South Coast and as a base for aerial transfers. The airport's infrastructure supports both short stops and longer layovers.