The Glastonbury Traffic Problem
Every year, 200,000 people attempt to reach Worthy Farm via the A37 and A361. The queues start at 4am Wednesday. Some people sit in traffic for 5+ hours. The car parks are a 30-minute walk from the campsites — longer if it's been raining.
A helicopter charter changes everything. You depart from Bristol, Bath, or London. Flight time: 25–45 minutes. You land at Pilton Farm's private heliport, a 5-minute walk from Pennard Hill campsite. Your tent is up before most people have left the M5.
Routes & Pricing
Prices for 4–5 passenger Robinson R44/66 or Eurocopter EC120. Split between a group and it's comparable to premium festival packages.
What's Included
- Pre-flight weather check and farm landing permission
- Helicopter and CAA-licensed pilot
- Landing at Pilton Farm private heliport
- Return flight (Monday morning recommended)
- All fuel, landing fees, and insurance
Booking Timeline
8–12 weeks ahead: Best prices, best aircraft choice. Operators like Castle Air (Cornwall) and Bristol & Wessex Helis get booked early.
4–6 weeks ahead: Still available but limited to specific time slots. You may need to accept a less convenient departure time.
2 weeks ahead: Premium only. Expect 40–60% surcharge for last-minute festival charters.
Popular Aircraft for Groups
- 4 passengers: Robinson R44 — from £2,500 (perfect for a group of friends)
- 5 passengers: Robinson R66 — from £3,000 (more luggage space, smoother ride)
- 6 passengers: Airbus H135 — from £5,000 (if you're splitting with another group)
Important Notes
- Operator must have pre-arranged landing permission with Glastonbury Festival (not all do)
- Passenger weights required for all bookings (festival gear is heavy)
- No alcohol before flying (CAA rules — save it for the farm)
- Return flights subject to Monday weather (low cloud can delay departures)
- Book accommodation near your departure point for Wednesday early departure