Juneau Operator Guide
TEMSCO vs Coastal vs NorthStar: Comparing Juneau's Helicopter Operators
Every helicopter passenger flying to a glacier in Juneau is flown by one of exactly three FAA Part 135 licensed commercial operators. Here is an honest, independent comparison from local coordinators on the ground.
1. TEMSCO Helicopters (The Pioneer Operator)
Founded in 1958, TEMSCO is the longest-operating commercial helicopter tour company in Alaska. They pioneered glacier landings on the Mendenhall Glacier and operate the legendary dog sledding camp on the snowfields of the Herbert Glacier.
Why choose TEMSCO: If you want the classic Alaska helicopter dog sledding experience or a quintessential 25-minute glacier landing walkabout, TEMSCO is the gold standard.
View TEMSCO Flights →2. Coastal Helicopters (The Icefield Specialists)
Coastal operates out of Juneau North Airport and is famed for diverse landing routes across the broader Juneau Icefield, including Herbert and Norris Glaciers. They also partner with historic Taku Glacier Lodge for famous fly-in salmon feasts.
Why choose Coastal: Outstanding extended icefield scenic routes and world-class culinary combo flights.
View Coastal Flights →3. NorthStar Trekking (Small-Group Glacier Hiking)
NorthStar specializes exclusively in small-group guided glacier hiking and technical ice climbing on the high ice of Mendenhall Glacier. Rather than a brief photo stop, guests strap on crampons, harness up, and hike deep into crevasses and ice caves with experienced mountaineering guides.
Why choose NorthStar: Perfect for adventurous travelers who want real physical engagement with the glacier, small group ratios, and technical ice trekking.
View NorthStar Treks →Why Book Through Juneau Flight Deck?
We provide transparent comparison across Juneau’s three licensed operators, with options to book directly or via our official Viator partner checkout. All flights follow published operator cancellation policies, including full refunds if flights are grounded due to weather or safety.
Plus, you get our local ground team monitoring your ship's docking schedule, tracking morning weather passes, and helping coordinate backup activities like whale watching if mountain pass clouds ground your flight.