A short flight is one of the best ways to see how many lakes, ridges and forests the Poconos really have. The local tour operators fly out of Pocono Mountains Municipal Airport in Tobyhanna, near Mount Pocono, in small planes and helicopters that carry up to three passengers.
Tours range from a quick loop over Mount Pocono to longer flights over Lake Harmony, the Delaware Water Gap and Lake Wallenpaupack. Small-plane flights run year-round, so you can go in fall color, over snow or on a clear summer evening. Times, prices and weather rules change, so call or book directly with the operator.
Airplane tours: Moyer Aviation
Moyer Aviation is at 188 Airport Drive in Tobyhanna, off Route 611 near Mount Pocono. It flies up to three passengers at a time, year-round, daily from 8 AM to sunset. Call 570-839-7161 to book and confirm current prices. Tours listed on its website:
- Mountain Tour: about 10 minutes over the Mount Pocono area.
- Delaware Water Gap: about 25 minutes.
- Lake Harmony: about 25 minutes.
- Lake Wallenpaupack: about 40 minutes.
- Water Gap and Lake Harmony combined: about 45 minutes.
- Hudson River and New York City skyline: a private charter.
Helicopter tours: Hi-Tech Helicopters
Hi-Tech Helicopters runs Pocono helicopter tours and a flight school at the same airport. Its tours have included flights over Pocono Raceway and the Delaware Water Gap. Routes, lengths and prices are on its booking page at flyaheli.com.
Tips before you fly
- Book ahead, especially for fall foliage weekends and holidays.
- Flights depend on the weather. Ask about the operator's policy for wind, low clouds and rescheduling.
- Ask about passenger weight limits when you book; small aircraft have them.
- Bring sunglasses and a phone or camera with a strap.
