London Aerials

London is the ultimate location for aerial filming. A 2000 year old city that seamlessly combines the historic with the contemporary, to deliver endless shot possibilities.

Based at Denham Aerodrome, 7 miles north of Heathrow airport, we are the closest aerial filming company to central London. With more than 4000 hours of filming experience over the city, we would like to think we know our way around.

Filming over London

Ready when you are.

One of the most common questions we are asked by clients wanting to shoot over London is how long does it take to get permission. The answer is usually two minutes. We have a relationship with the CAA going back to 2003 and as a result we are pre-approved for aerial filming in central London.

One call to ‘TC OPS’, the controllers of London’s airspace, and we can go. No forms, no waiting, no Film Office or council permissions and no fees. It really is that simple. Day or night.

Experience has taught us that good planning makes for a smooth and successful shooting experience over London. For instance, if we are shooting around the East End, close to London City airport, it’s worth planning to shoot on a Saturday afternoon or Sunday morning whilst the airport is closed. This eliminates long holds whilst waiting for their arriving or departing traffic and allows us to keep working.

It makes a big difference – more time for shots and better value for you.

Single or twin engine helicopter?

Clients are often surprised to hear that the vast majority of London’s iconic landmarks can be shot from any angle using our Robinson R44 single engine helicopter. Doing this saves your production budget that would otherwise be wasted on a twin engine helicopter. As a guide, any location within half a mile of the river can be shot with the single. This includes locations like the Square Mile buildings, St Paul’s, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square and The Shard. Plus everything along the river such as The Tower Of London and Tower Bridge.

For locations further from the river such as Hyde Park or King’s Cross, or for when we need to be lower over the buildings, the Twin Squirrel helicopter is the better option. With this helicopter we more or less have carte blanc access over the City and can also fly lower. We will always advise you of the best option for your project once we know the brief and what you are wanting to achieve.

Whichever helicopter we use, you will still benefit from the same rock solid stability our GSS camera systems offers. HD to 8K and a broad range of lenses including the Angenieux Optimo 25-250 and Canon CJ45 with 2x extender.

We always get the shot.