Whether we like it or not, we are still living in a pandemic world. A heli-ski operation is a microcosm of the world at large. Its function is dependent on healthy workers such as catering and lodge staff, guides and pilots. It is also contingent on arriving guests being Covid free, as just one case could mean a premature end to the season.

Air travel will have precautionary measures in place. If clients are traveling from abroad, they will need to self-quarantine for a period and take PCR tests on arrival and at the end of quarantining. This is before they can even travel up to the heli-ski operation. 

Behind the scenes at the lodge, expect frequent cleaning of common areas, with high touch areas disinfected with bleach hourly. Whole rooms are sanitized with a portable fogging machine and air filters are also in place. The helicopter is sanitized before and after each flight as per health mandate requirements.

For the guests, there are only minor inconveniences, which we have now become accustomed to in this new normal.  Wearing of masks will be mandatory of course in and around the helicopter. Expect to find the windows of the helicopter open during the flight. Masks are also mandatory in the public areas of the lodge. Meal times won’t be social occasions, but socially distanced with dining tables spread. 

With so much on the line, remote heli-ski lodges could be regarded as islands of safety. With strict controls on cleaning and sanitizing and also health checks of guests prior to and upon arrival, the environment should be Covid free.

 If you are thinking of getting away, a remote lodge heli-ski trip just might be one of the safest vacations you can take during Covid.