Helicopter flights from Altenrhein – current situation, history and alternatives
Helicopter flights from Altenrhein have been a highlight for visitors to Eastern Switzerland for many years. Its location directly on Lake Constance and its proximity to the Alps make this location an ideal starting point for sightseeing flights, photo flights, and exclusive charters.
However, we currently have to inform you about an important change: Since the bankruptcy of the local helicopter company Helialpin, no flights are possible from Altenrhein until further notice .
What happened? – Helialpin's bankruptcy
Helialpin, the helicopter company based at Altenrhein Airport, ceased operations in 2025. This was due to financial bankruptcy. This ended the possibility of taking off directly from Altenrhein by helicopter for the time being.
This is particularly regrettable for many regular customers, as Helialpin has long been an integral part of local aviation.
From Bonsai-Heli to Helialpin – a look into the past
The history of Helialpin is closely linked to Bonsai-Heli:
- In the 1980s , Bonsai-Heli established itself as a small, regional provider of helicopter sightseeing flights and flight training in Eastern Switzerland, initially with aRobinson R22 .
- 2007 : Acquisition of Bonsai-Heli by new owners who repositioned the company under the name Helialpin .
- 2007–2024 : Expansion of the offering with sightseeing flights from Altenrhein, Sitterdorf and Zurich, event flights and special alpine tours – especially to Säntis and the foothills of the Alps.
- 2025 : Bankruptcy and cessation of flight operations at the Altenrhein site.
What happens to vouchers that have already been purchased?
If you have a helicopter flight voucher from us at Heli GmbH , you can still redeem it without restrictions – even if there are currently no flights from Altenrhein.
Instead, we offer you attractive alternatives:
- Helicopter flights to Säntis from Sitterdorf airfield
- Helicopter flight from Balzers
- Individually tailored routes in Eastern Switzerland, Vorarlberg and the Alpstein region
- Flexible appointment selection and uncomplicated voucher transfer
Helicopter flights to Säntis from Sitterdorf – the best alternative
Sitterdorf Airport is only a 25-minute drive from Altenrhein and is easily accessible.
From here you can continue to experience fantastic helicopter flights to Säntis – with unique views of:
- Lake Constance and Rhine Valley
- The imposing Säntis summit
- Alpstein massif and Appenzellerland
- On a clear day you can even see the Black Forest and the Ötztal Alps
Conclusion
Even though helicopter flights from Altenrhein are currently not possible, there are attractive alternatives for voucher holders and new customers.
Heli GmbH ensures that your experience goes as planned – with a departure from Sitterdorf and unforgettable views of the Säntis and the mountains of Eastern Switzerland.
Aug 15, 2025
