Before Papillon was the world's largest touring company, founder Elling Halvorson used his helicopters to transport construction equipment across the Grand Canyon. After increasing requests from locals for rides over the canyon, Halvorson recognized an untapped market at the Grand Canyon; and in 1965, Grand Canyon Helicopters was established.

Over the past 50 years the small, 2-aircraft operation that was Grand Canyon Helicopters has evolved into Papillon Airways, Inc. Now boasting 68 aircraft of 7 varieties, 600+ employees, and operating out of 5 airports, Papillon flies an estimated 600,000 passengers per year to experience the majesty of the Grand Canyon from the air. Additionally, Papillon Airways is the only company that traverses the entire canyon.

Our membership in The Tour Operators Program of Safety and our commitment to abide by the rules and regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration reinforce our dedication to passenger safety. It is our responsibility to make sure that our customers can enjoy their Grand Canyon experience without any fear or concern for safety.

Our ambition at Papillon is to do everything we can to ensure that our guests' adventure to the Grand Canyon creates a lifetime of memories and entertainment. With over 70 unique tours, taking guests from the Hoover Dam to Lake Mead, to all rims of the Grand Canyon and beyond, every family is sure to find the perfect trip to the most magnificent landmark in America: the Grand Canyon.