Tourists can now get a birds-eye view of the city and its landmarks as the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has launched a Mumbai Darshan by Helicopter package. This is a first-of-its-kind initiative, in association with a private helicopter operator.

The service was launched two days ago.

IRCTC's region director Virender Singh said, "The helicopter joy ride is available for Rs 5,580 per person."

Tourists can take the helicopter ride from Juhu Aerodrome. An IRCTC official said, "There are two packages available, each for a duration of 15 minutes."

The south Mumbai route is scheduled on Tuesdays and Fridays. It covers Juhu, Bandra-Worli Sea Link, Haji Ali and back. The north Mumbai route is slated for Mondays and Saturdays and the ride will cover Juhu, Versova, Malad, Gorai, Pagoda, Essel World and back."

Singh said, "It is going to a breathtaking experience as the helicopter will fly 1000 feet above sea level."

IRCTC plans to extend the trips to more days in a week if the response turns out to be good.

Parvathy Iyer, chairperson of ParAir said, "We offer three-seater charter flights for Rs 20,000 for a joyride north of Mumbai for 15 minutes."

The bookings can be as low as 3,999, depending on the duration of the trip. However, the tour is not available on a daily basis. She said, "We need to undertake at least 30 trips per days to make it profitable."

Mumbaikars have welcomed this initiative. Shashank Rawal, a Navi Mumbai resident, said, "It's a good concept and people would like to take a ride, if the rates are affordable."