Helicopter vs Drone Photography in Bali - Which Is Better?
Both helicopters and drones can capture Bali from above, but they serve different purposes. Here is a detailed comparison to help you decide.
Helicopter photography offers several advantages over drones: you can fly higher (up to 1,500 feet), cover longer distances, and you experience the views yourself rather than through a screen. Helicopters also have no battery time limitations -- a typical photo flight lasts 50 minutes.
Drones are restricted in Bali. Many temples, beaches, and tourist areas have drone flight bans. The maximum legal altitude for drones is 120 meters (400 feet), and you need a permit from the Indonesian aviation authority. Helicopters have pre-approved flight routes and no such restrictions.
The bottom line: for personal aerial photography experiences, a helicopter tour wins hands down. For professional videography where you need extreme close-ups or specific angles, a licensed drone operator might complement your helicopter shots.