Chartering an airplane is an amazing way to see unique vantage points of incredible landscapes around the Western U.S.

Written by Jane Robert for Redtail Air

Chartering a plane can give you a flying experience like no other. With more freedom, you can get an amazing opportunity to see and appreciate sights from a whole new perspective on your own terms. You also benefit from a more private and convenient flight, giving you more time and space to enjoy the company of friends and family.

This is why it’s no wonder that CNBC reports private plane usage has risen in popularity. In 2021, there were 3.3 million private flights worldwide—the most on record. With passengers wanting to feel safer, looking for more privacy and comfort, and wanting an overall more convenient experience, chartering a flight has made that possible for many. You might be one of the many looking for an amazing flying experience by chartering a plane, and if you’re looking to visit somewhere in the U.S., you have many options to choose from.

The American west is full of iconic landscapes that are even more incredible when viewed from above.

1. Utah

aerial view of red rocks of utah in pink light

Utah may seem like an unassuming state for people who aren’t from there, but it also has its share of gorgeous sights and views that you can be privy to when you charter a flight. Utah’s “mighty 5” draws visitors from all over the world. An aerial view of Utah’s national and state parks like the Arches, Canyonlands, and the Navajo Tribal Park of Monument Valley can give you the time to take in all the wonders the area has to offer.

More to Explore in Utah’s Desert Landscapes

Taking a few hours of your trip to fly over the red rock formations and towering canyon walls can give you a once-in-a-lifetime experience to view these marvels from a perspective you wouldn’t have been able to from the ground. After your flight, you can enjoy some amazing hikes near Moab and explore these areas for yourself with a newfound appreciation for these places.

If you want to experience Utah’s beautiful landscapes from the sky but not sure where to start, check out some of our scenic airplane tours to explore areas we fly over.

2. Arizona

sunset over the arizona desert

One of the best ways to see Arizona’s sprawling desert landscape is from above, where you can catch a glimpse of stunning natural formations and structures from a whole new angle. The Grand Canyon is a top destination in the state, but not many get a chance to view it from the air—chartering a flight can give you all the time you need to admire it from this perspective.

Explore Arizona by Land & Air

Other than the Grand Canyon, Phoenix alone is home to an abundance of parks, such as South Mountain Park and Papago Park, which offer majestic sights of mountain ranges and red butte formations. If you and your companions are a part of the 41.8 million Americans who enjoy camping trips, you can also spend the night in one of the many campgrounds when you charter your flight in Arizona. Prepare your gear and pack smart when you head to places like the Lost Dutchman State Park Campground or the McDowell Mountain Regional Park Campground, where you can find all sorts of amenities and activities for campers. Whether you’re planning to rent out an RV or set up a tent campsite, flying in Arizona gives you the opportunity to admire the state’s natural beauty from the sky before you do the same on the ground.

3. Colorado

dusky light of a lake a snow-capped mountains in colorado

Colorado has long been a favorite destination for tourists and for good reason. The state has no shortage of natural attractions and diverse landscapes. Between the Rocky Mountains, canyons, rivers, lakes, and more, it’s no wonder it’s earned the nickname “Colorful Colorado.” You’ll be able to take in these gorgeous sights from the air, adding to the amazing experience you won’t be able to get elsewhere.

Enjoy Colorado’s Beauty in Every Season

You can time your chartered flight depending on the season, which can offer you different views that can vary based on the time of year you charter your plane in Colorado. You can view stunning autumn colors in the Maroon Bells or fly over the winter wonderland that is Glenwood Springs’ evergreen forests. You may enjoy skiing in one of the many ski resorts the state is home to, but nothing beats a view of these snow-capped peaks from up high.

If you’re looking to cover two of the states on this list in one trip, you may want to check out our tour packages in partnership with Rocky Mountaineer. This unique opportunity allows you to see some of Utah’s and Colorado’s most beautiful scenery by rail and air!

aerial view of rocky mountaineer train traveling through trees

These are just some of the many areas in the U.S. where you can consider chartering a plane. No matter where you go, the experience is sure to be exciting and provide breathtaking views. Flying is one of the best ways to go sightseeing, giving you new perspectives when observing scenic views and landmarks. However, before you hop on a flight, you might want to consider other flying modes, such as helicopters. How do you know whether to choose an airplane or helicopter scenic flight? It really depends on what type of experience you’re seeking as well as your needs. You’ll need to consider things like cost, how much luggage you need to bring, or how unique you want the flight to be. Either way, you’re always guaranteed an amazing time.

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