Helicopter to the Grand National
The Randox Grand National Festival runs from Thursday 8 to Saturday 10 April 2027, with the National at 4pm on the Saturday. Helicopters land at designated sites close to Aintree.
- 2027 dates
- 8 to 10 April
- From Manchester Barton
- About 20 min
- From Battersea
- About 75 min
- Jets
- Liverpool, about 12 miles
Getting to Aintree by air
Yes. Helicopters land at designated helipads close to Aintree, with transfers to the entrance. From Manchester's Barton heliport it is about 20 minutes; from London about 75 minutes.
Aintree is on the northern edge of Liverpool. By helicopter the North West is a short hop, and London is little more than an hour.
Jets usually land at Liverpool John Lennon Airport, about 12 miles away, or Manchester, about 30 miles away. A helicopter or car takes you on to the course.
Grand National Saturday is the busiest day. Book the helicopter and landing as soon as you know which day you are going.
Sources:Eventmasters: 2027 sporting calendarGlobalCharter: helicopter charter to the Grand National
Helicopter flight times to Aintree
| From | Approximate flight time |
|---|---|
| Manchester (Barton heliport) | About 20 minutes |
| Birmingham | About 50 minutes |
| London (Battersea heliport) | About 75 minutes |
| Dublin | About 90 minutes |
Published estimates; actual times depend on the helicopter, winds and routing.
Sources:GlobalCharter: helicopter charter to the Grand National
Tell us the dates and passengers. A specialist replies with aircraft options and an all-in price, around the clock.
Airports near Aintree
| Airport | Distance |
|---|---|
| Liverpool John Lennon | About 12 miles |
| Manchester | About 30 miles |
| Blackpool | About 35 miles |
Sources:GlobalCharter: helicopter charter to the Grand National
Helicopters for race day
Popular types with North West operators.
North West helicopter operators
CAA-certified operators based near Aintree.
Questions, answered
Still deciding? A charter specialist will talk you through aircraft, airports and price, with no obligation.
Ask a specialistWhen is the 2027 Grand National?+
Saturday 10 April 2027 at 4pm, on the final day of the festival that runs from 8 to 10 April.
Where do helicopters land for Aintree?+
At designated helipads close to the racecourse, with transfers to the entrance.
Which airport is closest for a private jet?+
Liverpool John Lennon, about 12 miles away.
How much does a helicopter to the Grand National cost?+
About £1,200 to £3,500 per flight hour for the whole aircraft, plus waiting time and landing fees.
Fares, dates and rules on this page were checked on 15 October 2026. Official fares and schedules change every season; the operator or authority named in each source has the final word.
Be there for the off.
A specialist replies around the clock with aircraft options, the operator's name and an all-in price.