Fisherman's Picnic may see helicopter tours in Grand Marais

Eric Monson of Lake Superior Helicopter Tours was at the Wednesday, May 29 Grand Marais City Council meeting to introduce the idea of offering helicopter rides in Grand Marais during this year’s Fisherman’s Picnic.

With Monson were representatives of the Grand Marais Lions Club, Harry Peterson, Gene Erickson and Bob Spry, who have been working with Monson to bring helicopter rides to Fisherman’s Picnic, Thursday through Sunday, July 31 - August 4.
Monson gave a short presentation, sharing information about the history of his company and its fleet and about the various rides and tours it offers.

The council asked questions about Federal Aviation Administration inspections and the company’s safety record. Monson said in the company’s 10 years, they have had only two complaints and those were for noise.

Regarding the noise, Monson told the council that the helicopters used for tours are much smaller than the Lifeflight helicopters and therefore quieter. There was discussion of decibel levels and helicopter flight routes and height, which mitigate some of the sound.

Mayor Jay Arrowsmith DeCoux asked about hours of operation and how many times the helicopter would be taking off and landing, acknowledging that it was dependent on the number of customers. Monson said flights are normally offered with a 9 or 10 a.m. start, finishing at sunset. He said the average flight lasts about five minutes, but some are longer. There is passenger loading and unloading time, so there could be about a 20-minute interval between flights, however, it would likely be much longer.
Monson said rides would likely start on Friday afternoon with Saturday and Sunday being full flight days.

There was discussion of the possible landing zone somewhere in or near Boulder Park on the Coast Guard point.

The council finally agreed to table a decision, asking Monson to bring back more specific details on the location and operating hours. They said City Attorney Chris Hood would also have to review any agreement with the company.
 
Two citizens shared concerns during the public comment at the start of the council meeting about the idea of helicopter tours at an already-busy time in the city.

Councilor Anton Moody said he thought Monson’s presentation was positive and that he had heard from some members of the public that were very excited about the possibility. Councilor Kelly Swearingen said she had also heard from people who want this to happen. However, Moody said he would like to get that further information and give the public time to weigh in—both for and against the idea. 

The council will consider approving permits for the helicopter operation at the next city council meeting, Wednesday, June 12.

Here's more on the discussion at the May 29 city council meeting.