The Day I Almost Rode a Helicopter

Given that is Sky Week in Japan, also known as Aviation Awareness Campaign, I have been thinking about everything to do with aviation and the skies. I was thinking about how helicopter rides are made slightly more accessible through spring fairs and festivals, where sometimes they offer a helicopter ride as an attraction.

I was at one such fair, a spring fair, in 2015 when my parents were visiting Japan. The fair was held on the flood lands of the Arakawa River, with extensive, sprawling wasteland. They had both a hot air balloon and helicopter ride event on the day. I had seen hot air balloon rides at festivals and fairs before, but it was the first time I had seen a helicopter ride on offer.

My Dad could tell I was interested but was talking myself out of it. So, he suggested he come with me on the ride. He also kindly offered to pay for the experience, which was 5000 yen each. I mustered up the courage and head off to the reception area to sign us up. But it wasn't to be; they had already reached their capacity for the day and had to turn us away.

To be honest, my overwhelming feeling was of relief. And since then, I don't even consider riding a helicopter at a festival or fair. I love to look at them, even board them on the ground, but - partly due to fear of heights and partly due to an overactive imagination - I am not ready to fly in one yet. 

Have you ever been up in a helicopter? I'd love to hear about your experience, even if it wasn't in Japan.