Adventure tourism in Las Vegas is all about thrills, but when firearms and helicopters are involved, safety comes first. At Gunship Helicopters, the world’s only aerial gun range, the adrenaline is real, but so is the commitment to protecting every guest.
From pre-flight briefings to trained range safety officers, every element of the experience is designed to deliver maximum excitement with uncompromising safety. Here’s how Gunship Helicopters sets the standard for safe aerial shooting in the Mojave Desert.
Why Safety Is the Top Priority
Shooting firearms from an open-door helicopter is unlike anything else in the world. While it’s an unforgettable adventure, it requires precision planning, strict protocols, and expert guidance. Gunship Helicopters operates with a mission to ensure that every participant not only enjoys the thrill but also feels completely secure from start to finish.
Key pillars of their safety philosophy include:
- Professional guidance from highly trained range safety officers.
- Maintenance and inspection of all firearms and helicopters.
- Detailed pre-flight briefings so every participant knows what to expect.
- Protective gear and equipment designed for aerial operations.
This layered approach allows guests of all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned shooters, to fully immerse themselves in the adventure with confidence.
Pre-Flight Safety Briefings
Every adventure begins with a comprehensive safety orientation. Before boarding the helicopter, participants receive step-by-step instructions covering:
- Firearm handling basics.
- Shooting positions and techniques for aerial accuracy.
- Safety protocols for the aircraft environment.
- What to expect once the helicopter is airborne.
These briefings are led by professional staff who understand that many participants are first-time shooters. The emphasis is on clarity, reassurance, and confidence-building, ensuring everyone is comfortable before liftoff.
Highly Trained Range Safety Officers
Gunship Helicopters employs a team of dedicated range safety officers (RSOs) who oversee every flight and ground shooting package. Their responsibilities include:
- Supervising participants during the experience.
- Ensuring firearms are handled correctly at all times.
- Providing one-on-one guidance as needed.
- Monitoring environmental and situational safety factors.
These RSOs bring years of experience in firearms operation and safety, many with military or law enforcement backgrounds. Their presence ensures that each guest is guided with professionalism and care.
Expert Pilots with Decades of Experience
Flying with an open helicopter door while participants fire fully automatic firearms requires expert aviation skill. Gunship Helicopters’ pilots bring decades of experience in both civilian and military aviation.
- All pilots are FAA-certified and adhere to strict aviation protocols.
- Aircraft are flown with precision to maintain stability and control during shooting sequences.
- Pilots work in tandem with RSOs to coordinate timing, flight paths, and communication.
This teamwork between pilots and safety officers ensures that the flight itself is as secure as the shooting.
Firearms Safety and Maintenance
Another critical aspect of safety is the inspection and maintenance of firearms. Gunship Helicopters offers an armory that includes:
- M249 SAW
- M240
- M134 fully automatic machine gun
- Ground options like the Barrett .50 Cal, MP5, M4, and M1014 shotgun
Each firearm is:
- Inspected daily by staff for mechanical integrity.
- Maintained to military standards to ensure smooth, reliable operation.
- Loaded and managed by RSOs, never left unattended with participants.
This ensures participants can focus on the thrill, knowing the equipment is in flawless condition.
Protective Gear and Equipment
Guests are provided with professional-grade safety gear to minimize risks and maximize comfort. This includes:
- Eye protection to guard against debris.
- Ear protection tailored for aerial environments.
- Secure harnesses and seatbelts during helicopter flights.
This equipment is included with every package, reinforcing the company’s focus on comprehensive guest safety.
Safety for First-Time Shooters
Many guests who visit Gunship Helicopters have never fired a firearm before. That’s why the company places extra emphasis on education and hands-on support.
- Range Safety Officers are trained to adapt their guidance to each participant’s comfort level.
- Guests are never rushed — each step is explained thoroughly.
- Encouragement and calm instruction help first-timers build confidence.
The result is an experience that’s just as thrilling for beginners as it is for seasoned shooters.
Weather and Environmental Safety
Operating in the Mojave Desert means adapting to changing conditions. Gunship Helicopters monitors weather patterns closely and adjusts schedules when necessary to maintain safety.
- Flights are delayed or rescheduled in the event of strong winds, heavy rain, or unsafe visibility.
- The private 71-acre range allows for controlled, predictable shooting environments.
- Staff remain in constant communication to evaluate environmental safety during each flight.
Guests can trust that flights only depart when conditions are optimal for safety and enjoyment.
Emergency Preparedness
While strict safety measures minimize risks, Gunship Helicopters is also prepared for emergencies.
- All staff are trained in first aid and emergency response.
- Pilots and RSOs follow FAA and firearm safety regulations.
- Emergency protocols are rehearsed regularly to ensure quick and effective action if needed.
This level of preparedness demonstrates the company’s commitment to professionalism and guest well-being.
Why Safety Enhances the Thrill
Some may wonder if a focus on safety diminishes the adrenaline factor. In reality, the opposite is true. When participants know they are in good hands, they can let go of fear and fully embrace the excitement.
- Guests shoot with confidence.
- Groups encourage one another in a secure environment.
- The thrill feels pure — because safety provides peace of mind.
This balance is what makes Gunship Helicopters one of the most trusted adventure tourism providers in Las Vegas.
Conclusion: Thrill Without Compromise
At Gunship Helicopters, safety and adrenaline go hand in hand. By combining experienced pilots, professional range safety officers, rigorous equipment checks, and thorough participant briefings, the company has created an environment where anyone — from first-time shooters to corporate groups — can experience the thrill of aerial shooting with complete confidence.
If you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind adventure that prioritizes both thrill and safety, Gunship Helicopters offers the ultimate Las Vegas experience.
Book your aerial shooting adventure today and see why Gunship Helicopters is known worldwide as the leader in safe, unforgettable aerial shooting.