Last week, Swiss pilot, inventor and aviation enthusiast Yves Rossy was scheduled to fly over the Grand Canyon with nothing but a jet pack. Unfortunately, he apologetically called off the flight after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) wasn't sure how to classify his jet pack.

The disagreement by officials was whether to classify his jet pack as an experimental aircraft, power glider, or something else. The last-minute disagreement might have shaken Rossy, who addressed the crowd that had gathered in anticipation. He said he was not prepared to make the flight.

The next day however, free from the pressure of crowds and media, everything changed. In what was meant to be a practice run, Jetman launched from a helicopter at 8,000 feet over the canyon, descending low enough to skim the walls and capture some dramatic footage.

"While I was disappointed not to be able to see the stunt, the footage that has been released is breathtaking," said James Hoke, president of TourGuy.com, LLC. "Some segments of the footage even create the illusion of flying over the Grand Canyon in a helicopter, especially when the canyon walls suddenly come into view. I love it."


According to news reports, Jetman averaged speeds of 125 miles per hour over the canyon. One of the more creative articles from The Telegraph compared his speeds to other fast-moving creatures and manmade creations. The closest comparison was to a Bugatti Veyron, which reaches peak speeds of 267 miles per hour.

"My first flight in the U.S. is sure to be one of the most memorable experiences in my life," Rossy said. "Not only for the sheer beauty of the Grand Canyon but the honor to fly in sacred Native American lands."

The flight was one of his lifelong dreams and the first time the jet pack has been used in the United States. To date, Rossy is the only man trained to fly a jet suit. He launched from a helicopter before turning on the jet pack. After the successful flight, he deployed a parachute that allowed him to have a safe and soft landing.

Helicopter Flights Over The Grand Canyon From Las Vegas.

Since the commercial prospects of everyone owning their own jet pack, let alone receiving permission to fly over the Grand Canyon, will likely take decades of development, the closest equivalent is a helicopter flight from Las Vegas.

"Two of our most popular tours include trips on the beautiful and environmentally friendly Eco-Star helicopters," said Hoke. "It is the only helicopter that beats noise output limits imposed by the National Park Service and makes for the quietest helicopter ride possible. The whole idea of flying over the Grand Canyon is to come as close as possible and soar over it in near silence as if you were gliding."

For other unique Las Vegas attractions that take you above and beyond the Las Vegas Strip, visit TourGuy.com. Helicopter excursions to the Grand Canyon also tend to be among the most popular Las Vegas attractions during long weekends and holidays. Hoke recommends booking as early as possible.