Takeaway

When comparing Papillon and Maverick for the equivalent 25 minute tour in the equivalent EC-130 helicopter, Papillon has the less expensive tour and therefore better value.  Papillon offers more flight times in this 25 minute tour as opposed to Maverick who allocates more of their helicopters and flight times to the 50 minute flight option called the Canyon Spirit tour (shown below).  You can save an additional $40 per person with Papillon by flying in the Bell Ranger helicopter but understand this is an older less expensive type of helicopter with some seats facing backwards and a wall separation between the cockpit and rear passengers. Papillon also offers private tour options that can be booked directly through their website.  These 25 minute flights are often tied to combo ground tours offered by other affiliated and non-affiliated tour companies.  Our opinion is the 50 minute flight (shown below) is a much better option and better value however if this is your only option due to availability the views and experience are still well worth it.

Takeaway

The 50 minute helicopter tour is the overall best value Grand Canyon helicopter tour by offering much more Grand Canyon time and more views with minimal flight allocated to non-scenic time getting to the Grand Canyon.  When comparing all helicopter tours from all starting points in other locations these 50 minute flights are the longest Grand Canyon flights available.  These are the most popular option from the National Park and offer more diversity of flight times between both companies.  Maverick currently offers the better value when Papillon has a fuel surcharge in place.  Papillon does have more flights available and may be your only option during busy summer months or holidays when these tours tend to sell out in advance.  If you are driving to the National Park or spending multiple days at the Grand Canyon this is the best option for the unique views only available by helicopter.   

Papillon offers addtional tour options at the National Park including airplane, ground tours along the rim, combo ground and air tours as well as day tours to Antelope Canyon.