“Can you fly in a helicopter with glasses?” This is a question often asked. The answer? Absolutely. In fact, pilots themselves usually wear corrective lenses during flights. However, flying in a helicopter with glasses requires some practical modifications that be the distinction between a comfortable, enjoyable experience and a frustrating one. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first aerial adventure or you’re already a seasoned flyer with vision correction needs, these essential tips ensure your eyewear enhances your experience of the spectacular views of Dubai's skyline.
Why Glasses are Perfectly Fine for Helicopter Rides
According to Pelican Flight School's guide, pilots permited to wear prescription glasses and contact lenses, with several pilots interestingly relying on corrective eyewear throughout their entire careers. If professional pilots can safely take charge of and operate helicopters while wearing glasses, then surely passengers can also enjoy tours with their specs on.
The key difference is that pilots have specific vision requirements (20/20 corrected for commercial pilots), while passengers simply need to be comfortable and able to see clearly enough to enjoy the experience. Your regular eyewear works perfectly fine for helicopter tour Dubai adventures.
Key Tips for Using Glasses on Helicopter Rides
Now that we know you can use glasses on helicopter rides, here are some of the must-know tips for a comfortable trip.
Securing Your Glasses: Your First Priority
Helicopter rotor wash creates significant wind turbulence, especially during boarding and disembarking. Standard eyeglass frames can easily blow off if not properly secured.
Below are some important securing methods to keep it glued to your face:
Sports straps or retainers that attach to both temples
Neoprene straps providing snug, comfortable fit
Adjustable tension straps accommodating different head sizes
Croakies-style cord retainers as minimum protection
Tips to avoid:
- Loose-fitting frames that slide down your nose
- Frames with broken or weak temple hinges
- Relying solely on friction without backup security
Securing your glasses takes seconds but saves you from the heartbreak of watching your expensive prescription eyewear tumble across the tarmac during the exciting moment you step toward the helicopter.
Choosing the Right Eyewear Type
Not all glasses work equally well for helicopter flights. Frame selection matters more than you might expect, especially during helicopter rides.
Best frame characteristics:
Wrap-around styles providing wind protection
Frames sitting close to your face
Secure, spring-loaded temple hinges
Lightweight materials reducing pressure points under headsets
Problematic frame types to take note of:
Oversized fashion frames catching wind
Heavy frames causing discomfort under headsets
Loose bridge fits sliding during movement
Decorative elements potentially catching on equipment
The Headset Challenge and Solutions
Helicopter headsets are essential for communication and hearing protection, but they can create pressure points around eyeglass temples, causing significant discomfort during flights.
Tips for Passengers with Eyewear
Modern aviation headsets accommodate eyeglasses better than older models. Most helicopter tour operators in Dubai use contemporary equipment designed with glasses-wearers in mind. However, you can take additional steps to maximize comfort.
Position your glasses properly before putting on the headset. Ensure temples sit flat against your head rather than angled outward. Some passengers find that slightly tilting their glasses helps distribute pressure more evenly. For longer tours, periodically adjusting your glasses and headset prevents pressure buildup causing headaches.
Specialized aviation eyewear with ultra-thin, flexible temples (like Flying Eyes Optics) eliminates pressure points entirely. These glasses feature temples specifically designed to fit comfortably under headsets and helmets, making them popular among frequent flyers and aviation professionals.
Sunglasses or Prescription Glasses?
Dubai's brilliant sunshine and reflective surfaces create challenging glare conditions. Flying in helicopter with glasses often means deciding between prescription glasses and sunglasses. So, how can you make a choice if you’ve to fly? Below are some important considerations.
Practical solutions:
Prescription sunglasses providing both vision correction and glare protection
Clip-on sunglasses attaching to your regular frames
Photochromic lenses darkening automatically in bright conditions
Polarized lenses reducing glare from water and glass buildings
Important Specs for Sunglasses on Flights
Choose sunglasses providing 100% UVA and UVB protection. Polarized lenses significantly reduce glare from Dubai's waterfront areas and glass-covered skyscrapers, enhancing your viewing experience during tours over Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, or Burj Khalifa. Whether you're on a quick 12-minute scenic flight or a comprehensive city tour, proper eye protection makes all the difference.
Gray or brown-tinted lenses work best for aviation, providing true color perception crucial for fully appreciating the spectacular views below. Avoid extremely dark tints or mirror coatings that might reduce visibility inside the helicopter cabin.
Contact Lenses: A Viable Alternative
Many glasses-wearers opt for contact lenses specifically for helicopter tours, eliminating pressure point concerns and simplifying headset use.
Advantages of contact lens:
- No pressure points under headsets
- Wider peripheral vision
- Easier sunglasses compatibility
- No fogging or water spot issues
However, helicopter cabins can have dry air from ventilation systems. Bring lubricating eye drops if you typically experience dryness with contacts. The vibration and movement don't affect contact lens stability, so that's not a concern.
Lens Cleaning and Maintenance
Nothing ruins spectacular aerial views like smudged, dirty, or foggy lenses. Helicopter environments present specific challenges for glasses cleanliness.
Items to bring on your ride:
- Microfiber cleaning cloth
- Lens cleaning spray or pre-moistened wipes
- Anti-fog solution or wipes
- Spare glasses case
Apply anti-fog treatment before your flight if you're prone to fogging issues. Temperature changes between air-conditioned waiting areas and warm outdoor boarding areas can cause condensation on lenses. Having cleaning supplies accessible ensures crystal-clear views throughout your tour.
Always Have a Backup if You Wear Glasses
A very crucial tip for passengers with eyewear, be it optional or recommended, includes always having backup for vision needs. If your primary glasses break, go missing, or become uncomfortable during the flight, having alternatives ensures you continue to enjoy a smooth ride.
Backup options include:
- Take spare glasses in a protective case
- Have contact lenses as a backup plan
- Know your prescription specifics for emergency replacements
- Consider prescription sports goggles for ultimate security
Professional helicopter operators like Beno understand these concerns and accommodate passengers' needs. When booking premium helicopter experiences like the Atlantis tour, support and seasoned professionals can answer specific questions about equipment and provide recommendations to make flights comfortable for glasses-wearers.
Experience Dubai From Above With Beno
At Beno, we understand that every passenger has unique needs, including those who wear glasses. Our lineup of helicopters and professional pilots ensure your visual needs never interfere with your spectacular aerial adventure and pleasurable views that you can enjoy on tours. Whether you're interested in a comprehensive 30-minute grand tour or other flight options, book your unforgettable Dubai helicopter experience today and see the city's iconic landmarks from perspectives few ever witness.
FAQs
- Can I wear my prescription glasses?
Yes, absolutely! Most tour operators like Beno make special accommodation for persons with specific needs.
- What about security on windy flights?
Yes this is important and that’s why it’s highly recommended to wear glasses that fit snugly.
- What should I wear/bring on helicopter rides?
You can wear closed-toe shoes, light layers, and bring sunglasses too.
- How long is the helicopter ride in Dubai?
It depends on the package. Beno offers 12-minute and 30-minute helicopter rides for interested persons in Dubai. Custom offers or arrangements can equally be made.
Or drop us a mail at help@beno.com
