Film & Broadcast Aerial
An aerial filming mission uses a helicopter as a camera platform for feature films, commercials, documentaries or live sports broadcast, usually with a gyro-stabilised camera system mounted on the aircraft. It is bought by production companies, broadcasters and agencies. SkyMatch, an independent broker, takes the brief to licensed operators; the operator confirms the aircraft, the approval for the camera mount, a pilot experienced in filming and any low-level or congested-area permits. The camera system and its technicians are specified by the production.
Comparing aircraft for this mission? See the helicopter guide for categories, cabin and payload trade-offs. Equipment and approvals are confirmed by the operator.
Typical use cases
- Feature-film and commercial aerial shots
- Live broadcast of sports and outdoor events
- Documentary and destination filming
Compliance & crew
The operator must hold the approval for the camera installation on its aircraft, permits for low-level or congested-area flying where the shot needs them, and insurance to the production's requirements.
Before you request a Film & Broadcast mission
Who usually buys it
- Film and commercial production companies
- Broadcasters covering live events
- Agencies, brands and tourism boards
What the operator must hold or confirm
- Aircraft and approval for the specified camera mount
- A pilot experienced in filming work
- Low-level, congested-area or event-airspace permits
- Daylight and weather windows for the shot list
How it differs from other missions
Unlike inspection flights, the payload is a camera system and the flight follows a shot list and creative brief. Unlike a drone, a helicopter carries a camera crew and heavier camera systems over longer distances.
What it depends on
- A shot list with locations, heights and timings
- Permits for low-level or event airspace
- Daylight and weather windows
Limitations
- Permit lead times vary by country and location
- The camera system and its technicians are specified and supplied by the production
- Low-level flying over people or cities is restricted and may not be approved
What to include in your request
- Location(s): departure point, work site or landing area, with an address or map pin
- Dates or time window, and how flexible they are
- Aircraft category if you already know it (light single, light or medium twin, heavy)
- People and payload: number of people, weights, and size of any equipment or load
- Equipment you require for the mission, as specified by your team
- Approvals or permits you need, or already hold, for the site or the work
- Safety, insurance and document requirements you want the operator to meet
- Who approves the request and how to reach them
Read the film production helicopter guide, build the brief in the mission planner, or send a request. Company missions can follow the business mission request checklist.
Frequently asked questions
Which camera systems can be used?+
The production specifies the camera system. The operator confirms whether that system is approved for its aircraft, or proposes an approved alternative.
How long do filming permits take?+
It depends on the country, the location and the type of flying. The operator advises the lead time for the permits your shot list needs.
Can live events be covered?+
Live broadcast flights can be requested; event airspace restrictions and the organiser's agreement are checked by the operator.
Ready to launch a Film & Broadcast mission?
Share the brief: SkyMatch structures it and takes it to licensed operators, who confirm the aircraft, approvals, price and availability.
Prepared by the SkyMatch editorial team · How we source and review · Method
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