SCENE 01 / HELICOPTER FILMING
Helicopter Filming
Large-scale aerial cinematography with gyro-stabilized camera systems across France.
Helicopter filming gives dramatic aerial views with the payload, flight time, and altitude that drones cannot match. Helicopters carry gyro-stabilized camera mounts. These capture sweeping vistas, high-speed chases, and epic establishing shots that define the scale of a film.
We set up helicopter filming with licensed aviation crews and skilled aerial camera teams. Our team handles flight permits, airspace planning, and safety prep. This lets your production capture stunning footage while we hold the highest standards of aviation and crew safety.
Capabilities
Complete Helicopter Services
From epic establishing shots to high-speed chase sequences, our helicopter teams deliver cinema-quality aerial footage for large-scale productions.
01
Cinematic Aerials
- Epic establishing shots
- High-speed chase sequences
- Extended aerial takes
- Long-range travel shots
- Large-scale landscape coverage
Sweeping Perspectives
02
Camera Systems
- Gyro-stabilized mounts
- Cineflex & Shotover systems
- ARRI & RED cinema cameras
- Long-range zoom lenses
- Real-time video downlink
Cinema Quality
03
Aviation Compliance
- DGAC flight authorization
- Airspace coordination
- NOTAMs & flight plans
- Full aviation insurance
- Safety documentation
Fully Licensed
04
Safety & Coordination
- Experienced film pilots
- Ground safety teams
- Air-to-ground communication
- Weather monitoring
- Emergency protocols
Safety First
On Location
Helicopter aerial cinematography for French productions
When a drone runs out of altitude, payload, or flight time, we fly. Our helicopter crews charter from Lacroix-Saint-Ouen, Issy-les-Moulineaux, Cannes-Mandelieu, and other bases across France. They carry Cineflex and Shotover gyro-stabilized mounts. Each mount holds an ARRI Alexa Mini LF, RED V-Raptor, or Sony Venice body under long-range zoom glass. Film pilots skilled on French shoots plan each flight with your DP. That can mean sweeping aerials over the Côte d'Azur coast, high-speed chases across the Camargue salt flats, or epic passes above the Loire Valley castle string.
Aviation sign-off runs through DGAC. Our flight coordinators file and track airspace planning, NOTAMs, off-limits-zone clearances around Paris monuments, and full insurance records. They allow three to four weeks of lead time for all of it. Air-to-ground radio, a real-time video downlink for director tracking, and ground safety teams come standard. We have flown Paris rooftop aerials with préfecture approval and Alpine sequences over Chamonix. We have also caught coastal travel shots that climb from sea level to the cliffs of Cassis in a single rolling take.
FAQ
Aerial Cinematography Expertise
When should I choose helicopter over drone filming?
Helicopters suit long aerial takes, high-speed sequences, and shots that need heavy cinema cameras. They also win where drones cannot fly due to rules or payload limits. For quick setups and lower altitudes, drones may cost less.
What camera systems do you use for helicopter filming?
We run gyro-stabilized systems such as Cineflex and Shotover mounts. These mounts can carry ARRI, RED, and other cinema cameras. They give rock-steady footage even during fast flight moves, and they allow remote camera control.
Can you film over cities like Paris?
Yes, with proper sign-off. Paris and other cities have strict airspace rules. With advance planning, we can still secure permits for helicopter filming. Our team works with DGAC and local authorities to lock in the approvals you need.
What types of helicopters do you use?
We work with many helicopter types based on your needs, from small aircraft for tight maneuvers to large ones for heavy camera systems and long flights. Our choice of aircraft depends on the shots, the locations, and the payload.
How do you handle air-to-ground coordination?
We use pro radio communications gear for real-time links between the helicopter crew and ground teams. Directors can talk straight to the pilots and camera operators. We also provide a video downlink so you can track aerial shots live.
How far in advance should we book helicopter filming?
We suggest 3-4 weeks at least for helicopter work, which leaves time for aviation sign-off and planning. Tricky shoots over off-limits airspace or with many aircraft may need a longer lead time.
Related Services
Productions in France that need this often pair it with Aerial Drone Services, Car Filming, and Vehicle Mounting for full coverage. Most projects also draw on Camera & Cinematography and Drone Videography.
On Set
Need Helicopter Filming?
Tell us about your aerial requirements and we'll coordinate experienced helicopter teams.