Helicopter Aerial Photo & Video Production in Italy
ORBIS Production provides high-end helicopter aerial photo and video production in Italy, delivering cinematic imagery for film, branded content, advertising and large-scale events. We work with certified flight crews, stabilised camera systems and full aviation coordination, managing permits, safety and logistics to execute complex aerial shoots to international production standards.
Helicopter aerial filming in Italy is reserved for productions that require scale, precision and sustained performance beyond the capabilities of drones or ground-based systems. Whether capturing fast-moving subjects, vast landscapes or large-scale events, helicopter-based filming provides the stability, reach and creative control needed for high-end aerial imagery.
At ORBIS Production, helicopter filming is approached as a fully integrated production service, not a standalone flight. Every aerial shoot is planned in close coordination with ground units, creative direction, camera teams and production logistics, ensuring that aerial footage aligns seamlessly with the overall visual narrative, timing and production objectives. This integrated approach allows helicopter shots to function as a core storytelling element rather than isolated aerial visuals.
Helicopter aerial photo and video production in Italy involves strict aviation regulations, safety protocols and operational planning. ORBIS Production manages these complexities in full, from airspace approvals and flight coordination to safety briefings and on-site execution, allowing clients to focus on creative outcomes while we handle the technical and regulatory framework behind the scenes.
Helicopter Filming Services in Italy
ORBIS Production provides professional helicopter aerial filming services in Italy for productions that require scale, precision and cinematic control beyond the limits of drones. We deliver helicopter-based aerial photo and video production using stabilised camera systems, certified pilots and experienced aerial crews, managing aviation permits, airspace coordination and safety planning as part of a fully integrated production workflow.
Helicopter Aerial Video Filming
Cinematic helicopter-based video filming in Italy for commercials, branded content, documentaries, events and broadcast productions, using stabilised camera systems and certified crews.
Helicopter Aerial Photography
High-resolution aerial photography from helicopters in Italy for advertising, automotive, luxury, real estate and editorial projects, offering precise framing and timing beyond drone limits.
Stabilised Camera Systems & Payloads
Professional gyro-stabilised camera systems supporting cinema and photo cameras, long lenses and complex camera moves for vibration-free aerial imagery.
Certified Pilots & Aerial Camera Crews
Professional gyro-stabilised camera systems supporting cinema and photo cameras, long lenses and complex camera moves for vibration-free aerial imagery.
Aviation Permits & Airspace Coordination
Full management of aviation permits, airspace approvals and coordination with civil aviation authorities and air traffic control in Italy.
Safety, Risk & Flight Planning
Comprehensive flight planning, safety protocols and on-ground coordination ensuring compliant and secure helicopter filming operations.
Our helicopter filming services in Italy are designed to support complex aerial productions where precision, safety and cinematic quality are critical.
Helicopter aerial filming in Italy is used when productions require speed, distance, altitude and sustained performance that cannot be achieved with drones or ground-based systems. ORBIS Production provides helicopter-based aerial photo and video filming for complex, large-scale and high-profile projects where stability, reach and safety are essential.
Our helicopter filming services are designed to support productions across sports, automotive, aviation, marine, events and large environments, delivering cinematic aerial imagery integrated seamlessly into the overall production workflow.
Global Sports & Major Events
Helicopter aerial filming for international sports and large-scale events, delivering dynamic coverage for broadcast, branded content and documentaries.
Automotive & High-Speed Productions
Long-distance tracking shots and high-speed aerial sequences for automotive commercials, performance films and test-drive campaigns.
Aviation & Air-to-Air Content
Aerial filming of aircraft and helicopters in flight, including air-to-air sequences, promotional aviation content and technical footage.
Luxury Yachts & Marine Projects
Helicopter filming and aerial photography of superyachts, luxury boats and marine environments, capturing scale, movement and coastal landscapes.
Landscapes, Cities & Infrastructure
Mountains, coastlines, cities, ports, industrial sites and large infrastructures where altitude, distance and stability are critical.
Film, TV & Branded Content
Cinematic aerial imagery integrated into feature films, documentaries, TV productions and high-end branded content filmed across Italy.
Across all use cases, ORBIS Production approaches helicopter filming as a precision-driven production service, fully coordinated with ground units, creative direction and aviation authorities. This ensures that every aerial shot is not only visually striking, but also technically sound, legally compliant and aligned with the broader narrative and production objectives.
Helicopter aerial filming in Italy requires precise flight planning and regulatory coordination long before cameras are airborne. ORBIS Production manages the full aviation planning process, ensuring that every flight route, altitude and filming area is approved, safe and operationally efficient.
Flight Route Design & Planning
We design helicopter flight routes based on creative objectives, camera requirements, terrain, airspace restrictions and ground activity. Each route is planned to maximise visual impact while maintaining safety, efficiency and compliance with Italian aviation rules.
Aviation Permits & Airspace Approvals
ORBIS Production secures all required aviation permits in Italy, coordinating with civil aviation authorities, air traffic control and local administrations. This includes approvals for altitudes, time windows, take-off and landing zones, and operations in controlled or sensitive airspace.
Safety Coordination & Operational Control
Every helicopter filming operation is supported by safety planning, buffer zones, ground coordination and real-time communication between air and ground units. This ensures predictable execution, risk mitigation and smooth integration with live events or active locations.
All flight planning and aviation coordination is handled internally, allowing ORBIS Production to deliver helicopter cinematography in Italy that is fully compliant, controlled and aligned with demanding production schedules.
Aerial Camera Systems & Equipment
Helicopter aerial filming in Italy requires specialised, production-grade camera systems capable of delivering stable, high-resolution imagery under demanding flight conditions. ORBIS Production works with industry-leading gyro-stabilised aerial camera systems used in feature films, broadcast, motorsport and high-end commercial productions worldwide.
Our helicopter filming operations can be equipped with advanced stabilised platforms such as Shotover F1, GSS Cineflex and equivalent high-end aerial systems, depending on creative requirements, aircraft configuration and flight profile. These systems are designed to deliver smooth, vibration-free imagery at speed, altitude and with long focal lengths.
Shotover F1
High-end gyro-stabilised aerial camera system designed for fast-moving, long-lens and high-precision shots. Ideal for motorsport, automotive, large-scale events and cinematic tracking sequences.
GSS Cineflex
Industry-standard stabilised aerial system widely used in broadcast, live events and feature productions, delivering smooth, vibration-free imagery with long focal lengths.
Our aerial camera configurations support:
High-End Cinema & Professional Photo Cameras
Support for top-tier cinema and still camera systems, including ARRI, RED, Sony and equivalent professional platforms, configured for aerial filming and photography from helicopters.
Heavy Payloads & Long-Lens Capability
Aerial setups designed to carry heavy camera payloads and long telephoto lenses, enabling stable long-range tracking shots and precise framing from extended distances.
Precision Camera Movement & Control
Advanced stabilisation allowing smooth, repeatable pan, tilt and roll movements, ensuring precise camera control even at speed, altitude and during complex flight manoeuvres.
Multi-Format, Production-Ready Outputs
Aerial imagery delivered in broadcast, cinematic and high-resolution photo formats, suitable for TV, digital platforms, cinema release and high-end print applications.
Each aerial camera system is selected and configured based on creative intent, shot design, aircraft type and safety considerations, ensuring that every helicopter shoot delivers not only striking visuals, but also technical reliability and production-ready results.
By operating proven stabilised systems such as Shotover and Cineflex, alongside certified crews and aviation coordination, ORBIS Production delivers helicopter aerial photo and video content that meets the highest international standards of image quality and operational performance.
At ORBIS Production, our flagship helicopters, the AS350/H125 B3 and the Twin-Star AS355, are the backbone of our aerial cinematography services, offering unmatched versatility, power, and precision for every shoot.
At ORBIS Production, our flagship helicopters, the AS350/H125 B3 and the Twin-Star AS355, are the backbone of our aerial cinematography services, offering unmatched versatility, power, and precision for every shoot.
The AS350/H125 B3, renowned for its exceptional performance in high-altitude environments and extreme conditions, is our go-to helicopter for the most demanding aerial missions. Equipped with advanced camera mounts and communication systems, this helicopter ensures rock-solid stability and smooth footage, even in challenging terrains. Its superior speed and agility make it the ideal choice for filming dramatic landscapes, from the rugged peaks of the Alps to the narrow streets of Italy’s historic cities. With dual hydraulic systems and the Helicopter Terrain Awareness and Warning System (HTAWS), the AS350/H125 B3 guarantees maximum safety and efficiency during every operation.
The Twin-Star AS355 is equally impressive, offering enhanced capabilities with its twin-engine design. This helicopter is particularly well-suited for operations over urban areas, water, or densely populated locations, where extra power and safety margins are critical. Its twin-engine reliability makes it perfect for complex aerial shots in cityscapes like Rome, Milan, and Venice, where precision and maneuverability are key. Whether we’re navigating narrow airspace or flying long-distance coastal routes, the AS355 provides smooth, stable, and safe flights.
Both helicopters are fully outfitted for aerial cinematography, ensuring that our experienced pilots and aerial DOPs can capture flawless footage, no matter the location or conditions.
Full-Service Crews for Flawless Aerial Execution
Helicopter aerial filming demands more than equipment and permits — it requires specialised creative and technical teams experienced in working under aviation, safety and production constraints. ORBIS Production assembles full-service aerial crews in Italy tailored to each project, ensuring seamless coordination between air and ground units.
Aerial Directors
Aerial directors of photography and camera operators with deep expertise in gyro-stabilised systems, long-lens work and precision camera control at speed and altitude.
Aerial DPs & Camera Operators
Aerial directors of photography and camera operators with deep expertise in gyro-stabilised systems, long-lens work and precision camera control at speed and altitude.
Professional Aerial Photographers
Specialist aerial photographers capturing high-resolution still imagery from helicopters, ideal for advertising, luxury, marine and large-scale landscape projects.
Certified Helicopter Pilots
Licensed helicopter pilots with film, broadcast and event production experience, trained to fly repeatable, camera-driven flight paths under demanding conditions.
Aerial Coordinators & Safety Supervisors
Dedicated aerial coordinators and safety supervisors managing air-to-ground execution, exclusion zones, safety protocols and live operational control.
Aerial Unit / Air-to-Ground Production Manager
A dedicated production manager overseeing real-time coordination between air units, ground crews, directors and production teams, ensuring timing, communication and execution remain perfectly aligned throughout the shoot.
Each helicopter filming team is built specifically for the project, combining creative leadership, technical expertise and aviation safety into a single, tightly coordinated aerial unit.
Safety Management & Aviation Coordination
Safety and aviation coordination are core to every helicopter filming operation in Italy. At ORBIS Production, safety is managed as an active, real-time production responsibility, fully integrated into flight execution — not treated as a procedural checkbox.
We coordinate all operational and aviation-critical elements, including:
Certified pilots and experienced aerial camera operators specialised in film and photo production
Pre-flight safety briefings and risk assessments aligned with flight profiles and environments
Exclusion zones and ground safety management for controlled operations near people, vehicles or infrastructure
Continuous communication between air and ground units, including camera teams and production management
Live aviation coordination during events and complex environments, ensuring timing, positioning and safety remain aligned throughout the shoot
All helicopter filming is conducted in full compliance with Italian civil aviation regulations, with continuous monitoring of weather, airspace conditions and operational constraints. This structured and proactive approach allows ORBIS Production to execute helicopter aerial filming safely, predictably and without compromise, even during high-speed tracking shots, large-scale events or live productions.
Helicopter Filming vs Drone Filming
While drone filming is an effective solution for many aerial scenarios, helicopter filming in Italy is essential when productions require scale, speed, distance and sustained performance beyond drone limitations. Helicopters allow for long flight times, high-speed tracking, heavier camera payloads and stable operation over large areas or complex airspace. For major sports events, automotive productions, air-to-air filming, marine and yacht content, or large-scale environments, helicopter-based aerial filming provides the reach, stability and operational flexibility required. ORBIS Production offers both drone aerial filming & photography services and helicopter aerial filming services, advising on the most suitable aerial solution based on creative objectives, safety requirements, airspace regulations and production scale — ensuring the right tool is used for each specific shoot.
Helicopter Filming Locations
At ORBIS Production, we offer the most comprehensive aerial cinematography services across Italy, ensuring that no matter where your project takes you, our team can capture stunning, cinematic shots that elevate your production. Italy’s rich tapestry of landscapes, from its bustling cities to its rugged mountain ranges and idyllic coastlines, provides endless opportunities for breathtaking aerial footage.
Here’s how we cover the country's most captivating locations, ensuring your film, commercial, or branded content project is shot to perfection.
Northern Italy & The Alps: Majestic Mountain Ranges and Winter Wonderland
The dramatic peaks of the Alps and the Dolomites provide an awe-inspiring backdrop for any project, making this region perfect for epic aerial shots. Whether you’re capturing the tranquil beauty of a sunrise over Val di Fassa, the snowy slopes of Madonna di Campiglio, or the sheer cliffs of Tre Cime di Lavaredo, our helicopters are equipped to navigate these challenging terrains with ease. The region also plays host to the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, where ORBIS Production is set to document the grandeur of this international event with precision aerial footage of the sporting action and picturesque winter landscapes.
Locations
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Bormio, Livigno, Sestriere, Aosta Valley, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Bolzano, Merano, Val di Fiemme, Val di Sole, Valtellina, Canazei, and more.
Central Italy: Tuscany, Umbria, and Beyond
Central Italy is home to some of the country’s most visually stunning regions. The rolling hills and vineyards of Tuscany, with its ancient villages like San Gimignano, Montepulciano, and Cortona, are perfect for capturing timeless, cinematic aerial shots. Florence offers a dramatic urban contrast, with its iconic Renaissance architecture and bustling streets.
Neighboring Umbria, known as the "green heart of Italy," provides a more rural, serene setting. From the hilltop towns of Assisi and Orvieto to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Trasimeno, this region is ideal for documentary filming, tourism promotion, or corporate videos that require a lush, peaceful landscape.
Southern Italy: The Amalfi Coast, Puglia, and Basilicata
Southern Italy is a treasure trove of picturesque locations. The Amalfi Coast, with its steep cliffs and colorful towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, is a prime location for luxury brand commercials, travel documentaries, and film sequences requiring stunning seascapes and dramatic coastlines.
In Puglia, the olive groves, whitewashed towns of Ostuni and Alberobello, and the stunning beaches of Gallipoli and Polignano a Mare provide a quintessential Mediterranean feel. Basilicata, with the ancient cave dwellings of Matera, offers a unique, almost otherworldly backdrop perfect for historical films, commercials, or cultural documentaries.
Additional Locations:
Sorrento, Capri, Naples, Lecce, Taranto, Brindisi, Bari, Salento, Monopoli, Tropea, Reggio Calabria, Cosenza, and more.
Sicily and Sardinia: Islands of Contrast
The islands of Sicily and Sardinia offer a contrasting mix of landscapes, from volcanic mountains to pristine beaches, perfect for a wide range of aerial projects. In Sicily, capture sweeping shots of Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe, or the ancient ruins of Taormina and Agrigento.
The island’s diverse geography—from the black sand beaches of Stromboli to the lush vineyards of Marsala—allows for incredible versatility in aerial cinematography. Sardinia, with its rugged coastlines and turquoise waters, is a popular destination for fashion campaigns, luxury yacht charters, and tourism commercials. From the exclusive Costa Smeralda to the wild landscapes of Gennargentu National Park, Sardinia offers unparalleled natural beauty.
Additional Locations:
Catania, Palermo, Siracusa, Trapani, Aeolian Islands, Pantelleria, Olbia, Alghero, Cagliari, Nuoro, Oristano, and more.
Italy’s iconic cities offer their own unique challenges and rewards when it comes to aerial filming. Rome, with its ancient ruins and modern cityscapes, presents opportunities to capture both historical landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Roman Forum, as well as the modern buzz of the Eternal City. ORBIS Production specializes in securing permits for urban areas, ensuring that even restricted zones are available for filming.
In Milan, the fashion capital of the world, we bring the city’s cutting-edge architecture and energy to life, whether it’s capturing the sleek Porta Nuova skyline or the timeless beauty of the Duomo di Milano. Venice, with its intricate canal system and historic palazzos, provides endless possibilities for aerial shots that immerse viewers in the floating city’s charm and mystique.
ORBIS Production also specializes in discovering Italy’s hidden gems—those off-the-beaten-path locations that provide a fresh, unique backdrop for your project. From the medieval castles of Val d’Orcia to the lesser-known beaches of Calabria and the breathtaking national parks of Abruzzo, our helicopter filming services bring these rare locations to the forefront of your production.
In Le Marche, the rolling hills and cliffside towns like Urbino and Loreto offer stunning vistas that are perfect for documentaries, historical films, or branded content looking to showcase Italy’s untouched landscapes. Friuli Venezia Giulia, with its dramatic mountains and proximity to the Slovenian border, provides another unexplored canvas for adventurous filmmakers.
Additional Hidden Gems:
Molise, Liguria, Lampedusa, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Emilia-Romagna, Cilento, Gargano Peninsula, Sila National Park, Gran Sasso, and Val d’Aosta.
No matter the location, our team at ORBIS Production is ready to meet the needs of any project. We handle all permits and logistics, including flights over restricted areas, coastal zones, and high-altitude regions, allowing your production to focus solely on creativity. With a fleet of Shotover F1 and Cineflex-equipped helicopters, our team is poised to provide smooth, stable footage across every terrain — whether it’s soaring over the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, navigating the cobbled streets of Florence, or capturing the grandeur of Lake Como and Lake Garda.
Helicopter and air-to-air productions in Italy require a production partner capable of operating at the intersection of aviation, cinematography and complex logistics. Beyond equipment and flight approvals, success depends on experience, judgement and the ability to coordinate multiple disciplines under real-world constraints. ORBIS Production brings this capability through years of hands-on aerial production experience, supporting high-profile projects where precision, safety and reliability are non-negotiable.
About ORBIS Production
ORBIS Production is a multi-award-winning film, photo and aerial production company based in Italy, delivering high-end helicopter filming and air-to-air cinematography for international brands, broadcasters, agencies and production companies. Our work has been recognised with Gold, Silver and Bronze Cannes Lions as well as a Webby Award, reflecting creative impact and production excellence at the highest international level.
We specialise in helicopter film production in Italy, including aerial cinematography, air-to-air filming and helicopter aerial photography for large-scale events, automotive, aviation, luxury, marine and broadcast productions. Operating with certified pilots, specialist aerial crews and industry-leading stabilised camera systems such as Shotover F1 and GSS Cineflex, ORBIS Production delivers cinematic aerial imagery under full aviation compliance, safety management and production control.
What Sets Us Apart
Helicopter and air-to-air cinematography demand a level of planning, technical precision and aviation control that goes far beyond standard aerial production. ORBIS Production approaches helicopter filming in Italy as a fully managed, high-risk production discipline — combining aviation planning, advanced camera systems, certified crews and real-time coordination to deliver cinematic aerial results under the most demanding conditions.
End-to-End Aerial Production Control
We manage helicopter and air-to-air filming in Italyas a complete production service — from aviation planning and permits to aerial crews, camera systems and on-site execution. This ensures seamless integration between air and ground units and full control over complex aerial shoots.
Certified Crews for High-Risk Aerial Operations
Our Italian helicopter filming teams include experienced aerial directors, DPs, photographers, certified pilots and safety coordinators. Each crew is assembled specifically for the project, ensuring precision, coordination and reliability in demanding air-to-air environments.
Advanced Camera Systems & Aviation-Ready Setups
Using industry-leading stabilised aerial camera systems and aviation-approved configurations, we deliver smooth, high-resolution aerial cinematography and photography in Italy suitable for broadcast, cinema and premium commercial productions.
Aviation Compliance & Safety Without Compromise
All helicopter and air-to-air filming in Italy is executed under strict aviation regulations, with real-time coordination, risk management and safety supervision. This approach allows us to operate predictably and safely, even during high-speed, live or large-scale aerial productions.
Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics: Elevating Aerial Filming to New Heights
As Italy prepares to welcome the world for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, ORBIS Production is already positioned at the forefront of this historic event, ready to deliver unparalleled aerial cinematography. Our expertise in helicopter filming will capture every thrilling moment from above, from the snow-covered peaks of Cortina d’Ampezzo to the dynamic energy of Milan. Whether it’s the adrenaline-pumping downhill races in Bormio or the graceful figure skating at Mediolanum Forum, ORBIS will ensure every key moment is immortalized with breathtaking, crystal-clear aerial footage.
Capturing Iconic Winter Landscapes
The unique beauty of Italy's winter sports venues provides a visually stunning backdrop for the Olympics, and our helicopters are perfectly equipped to navigate these landscapes. With our specialized Shotover F1 and Cineflex systems, we’ll document the rugged elegance of the Dolomites, the majestic descents in Valtellina, and the scenic ski jumps in Predazzo. Each venue, whether nestled in the Alps or the rolling slopes of Livigno, will be brought to life in high-definition aerial shots that showcase the grandeur of Italy’s mountainous terrain.
Preferred Partner for Large-Scale Productions
As a trusted partner for large-scale productions, ORBIS Production is the go-to service for helicopter filming across all Winter Olympic venues. From ski slopes to urban settings, our crew is experienced in coordinating seamless operations that require precision and collaboration. With meticulous attention to detail, we handle all aerial logistics, including permits for restricted airspace, ensuring no shot is out of reach. Whether it’s capturing the athletes' intense competition or the sweeping grandeur of the opening ceremony at San Siro, our team will deliver footage that captivates global audiences.
World-Class Expertise for a World-Class Event
Our experienced team, which includes expert helicopter pilots, DOPs, and camera operators, is set to capture the 2026 Winter Olympics from every angle. With deep knowledge of Italy's diverse terrains, ORBIS ensures flawless execution in even the most challenging filming environments, delivering footage that tells the story of the Games in a visually stunning and dynamic way.
We deliver a complete suite of high-end helicopter and air-to-air filming services across Italy, meticulously crafted to meet and exceed the highest industry standards.
Helicopter filming in Italy refers to aerial video and photography captured from helicopters using stabilised camera systems. It is used for productions requiring scale, speed, distance and sustained performance beyond the limits of drones.
Air-to-air cinematography in Italy involves filming one aircraft from another aircraft, typically helicopter-to-aircraft or helicopter-to-helicopter. It requires precise flight coordination, specialist camera systems and certified aviation crews.
Yes. ORBIS Production provides professional helicopter aerial photography in Italy, supporting high-resolution still imagery for luxury, automotive, marine, advertising and editorial projects.
We operate industry-leading gyro-stabilised aerial camera systems, including Shotover F1, GSS Cineflex and equivalent high-end platforms, depending on project requirements and aircraft configuration.
Yes. ORBIS Production provides Shotover filming services in Italy, supporting cinema-grade aerial cinematography for commercials, branded content, broadcast and large-scale productions.
Yes. We manage all aviation permits, airspace approvals and flight coordination in Italy, working with civil aviation authorities, air traffic control and local administrations.
Absolutely. Helicopter filming in Italy is commonly used for global sports events, motorsport, live broadcasts and large-scale public events, where drones are not sufficient.
While drone filming is suitable for many scenarios, helicopter filming allows longer flight times, higher speeds, heavier payloads and operation in complex airspace, making it essential for air-to-air cinematography and large-scale productions.
Yes. ORBIS Production provides both drone aerial film and photo production in Italy and helicopter filming services, advising on the most suitable solution based on creative, technical and regulatory requirements.
Helicopter filming services are available nationwide across Italy, subject to airspace restrictions, weather conditions and permit approval.
All operations are conducted with certified helicopter pilots, specialist aerial camera operators, aerial DPs and safety supervisors experienced in film, broadcast and event production.
Yes. All helicopter filming is executed under Italian civil aviation regulations, with risk assessments, safety briefings, exclusion zones and real-time coordination to ensure safe and legal operations.
Common applications include:
air-to-air cinematography
automotive & high-speed filming
aviation & aerospace content
luxury yachts & marine projects
film, TV & branded content
major sports & live events
To start a helicopter filming or air-to-air cinematography project in Italy, simply contact ORBIS Production with your brief. We will assess creative requirements, locations, aviation constraints and provide a production-ready solution.