Love will be in the air this Valentine's Day

Amidst a croaky conversation between the pilot and Mumbai's air traffic control tower, Avinash Mahadik will use the cockpit headphones aboard a Robinson 44 helicopter to convey his love for his long-time girlfriend this Valentine's Day.

Amidst a croaky conversation between the pilot and Mumbai's air traffic control tower, Avinash Mahadik will use the cockpit headphones aboard a Robinson 44 helicopter to convey his love for his long-time girlfriend this Valentine's Day.

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The two-seater chopper will also have a bouquet of red roses, a chocolate cake and a bottle of champagne — perfect ingredients for a romantic date.

With chopper rides becoming popular among youth, at least 20 airbound love stories will unfold in the city skies on February 14.

"She loves to fly. I hope this would make her feel special," said Mahadik, 25, a leather merchant.

Helicopter operators claim that such luxury experiences are no longer just for a niche segment.

"Bookings for joy rides on Valentine's Day have doubled over last year," said Ameya Gore, spokesperson, Airnetz Aviation, a city-based private charter company.

Charter companies charge Rs 30,000 for a 30-minute ride from the Juhu aerodrome along the coastline up to Colaba. "New high-rises in the city have made the skyline prettier," said Gore.

Connoisseurs feel the exp-erience is worth spending on. "Proposing marriage is an once in a lifetime moment. Today’s youth can afford such luxuries," said Vikas Phanse, a fashion photographer, who has also booked a ride.

"You end up spending the same amount in a five-star hotel. This experience is unmatched," said Zubin Shamshi, a marketing executive with a production company.