In 1965, after using helicopters on remote, high-risk construction projects, Elling Halvorson envisioned a new venture—aerial sightseeing tours. Celebrating 50 years in 2015, his pioneering multibrand Papillon Group, the first to ever fly the Grand Canyon and now the world’s largest aerial tour operator, is buzzing stronger than ever.
“Papillon grew from one to 50 helicopters,” says Brenda Halvorson, Elling’s daughter and president and CEO of the company, based in Boulder City. “Groups are integral to our success, and so we are always looking for new and exciting ways to enhance their Las Vegas itinerary. Whether it’s landing on the Grand Canyon floor or the top of Tower Butte, we can create custom packages and experiences for planners and group sales coordinators.”
These include large-scale “hangar parties” in Papillon’s facilities and mining town adventures via helicopter, ATV, horseback and kayak.
“We love to create memories,” Halvorson says.
