What is an SPO flight?

An SPO (Specialised Operations) flight is a mission-specific helicopter operation for filming, photography or technical work requiring prior approvals.

How far in advance must I book?

Book well in advance to allow time for AAN/ANAC approvals and airspace coordination; lead times vary by complexity but plan several weeks.

Can I bring my cinema rig onboard?

Yes, if the rig and mounts are declared and approved ahead of the flight and fit within the helicopter’s payload limits.

Where is the meeting point?

Check-in is at the Heliporto de Algés; arrive at least 20–30 minutes before your scheduled departure.

What are weight restrictions?

Maximum allowable weight depends on the helicopter chosen; the operator will confirm limits when you provide equipment and passenger weights.

What happens in bad weather?

If weather prevents safe flight, the operation will be rescheduled; safety and regulatory clearance are always priorities.

Aerial Filming over Lisbon: SPO Helicopter Flights from Algés

Fly over Lisbon’s waterfront and set cinematic frames from the seat of a purpose-configured helicopter. Voos para Fotografia e Filmagem Aérea (SPO) operates out of Algés, Lisboa, Portugal, offering tailored aerial filming flights for cinema, TV, advertising and institutional projects. Portugal Helicopters supplies experienced pilots, specialised aircraft and full administrative support to navigate approvals with ANAC and AAN so productions can focus on creative control. The experience starts in Algés at the Heliporto de Algés, where a pre-flight briefing aligns shooting objectives, flight paths and safety limits. Routes commonly trace the Tagus estuary, pass Belém’s riverside monuments and frame the 25 de Abril Bridge and Cristo Rei from unique angles. Pilots coordinate required SPO paperwork, file the mandatory AAN forms and adapt timing to light and weather, which is crucial when you are chasing golden-hour exposures or complex tracking shots. What sets these flights apart is operational flexibility: Portugal Helicopters manages aircraft selection, weight calculations and certified camera mounts up to the Robinson R44 setup so teams can mount GoPros or gimballed cinema rigs when authorised. Flights are private and mission-specific, meaning your production has dedicated lift and crew focus rather than a sightseeing schedule. For directors and DPs, that control translates into precise passes, multiple takes and repeatable framing. Practicalities matter. Bookings require lead time to secure SPO approvals and airspace coordination, and schedules remain subject to official confirmation. Arrive at least thirty minutes early for check-in; bring photographic ID and leave large bags at reception. The operator will advise on payload limits per helicopter and whether additional crew or equipment can be accommodated. Why choose Algés and Portugal Helicopters? Algés sits immediately west of central Lisbon, giving short transit times to iconic urban, riverine and coastal subjects without the logistical drag of longer repositioning flights. The operator’s hands-on approach to paperwork, combined with pilots experienced in cinematographic flying, makes this service a practical choice for commercial crews, independent filmmakers and event producers who need reliable aerial solutions in the Lisbon region. Whether you need sweeping establishing shots of Lisbon’s skyline, tight tracking over the Tagus or stabilized inserts of vessels and coastline, these SPO flights pair technical compliance with cinematic intent. The result is efficient, safe and creative aerial coverage that integrates with production schedules and respects Portuguese aviation regulations. Crews find the short ferry across the river unnecessary; many productions benefit from the heliport’s proximity to Lisbon’s production houses and rental houses, reducing transit for expensive equipment. The team also assists with technical briefings, camera mount checks and contingency planning so shoots remain on schedule. For filmmakers seeking repeatable aerial plates over Lisbon, these SPO flights offer a controlled, regulation-compliant platform that maximizes creative options and flexibility.