Flying across Los Santos in Grand Theft Auto V is one of the most thrilling ways to explore the vast open world the game offers. Whether you’re escaping the police, traveling to a mission quickly, or just enjoying the skyline, helicopters provide unmatched versatility. But to get the most out of these aerial vehicles, players need to know where to find helipads. Helipads are key locations where helicopters can be stored, spawned, or landed safely. Knowing the helipad locations in GTA 5 gives players a significant advantage in terms of travel and tactical options.
Why Helipads Matter in GTA 5
Helipads are more than just parking spots for helicopters. They serve multiple purposes including
- Quick access to air travel.
- Safe landing zones in tight missions.
- Storage for purchased or stolen helicopters.
- Launch points for certain activities and missions.
Understanding where each helipad is located will help streamline travel, improve mission efficiency, and open up new gameplay opportunities.
Major Helipad Locations in GTA 5
There are several notable helipads scattered across Los Santos and Blaine County. Some are free to use, while others may require purchase or specific mission progress. Below are the main helipad locations every player should know.
1. Vespucci Helipad (Los Santos)
The Vespucci Helipad is one of the most prominent helipads in the game. Located on the western side of Los Santos, near the Vespucci Canals, it is accessible early in the game. This location allows players to purchase and store helicopters.
- LocationOn the coast, just south of Del Perro.
- AccessCan be bought for $419,850.
- FeaturesHeli storage, landing pads, and a spawn point for purchased helicopters.
2. Los Santos International Airport (LSIA)
LSIA is a massive facility on the southern edge of the map. Within its grounds are several helipads used by NPCs and occasionally accessible during missions or with specific aircraft.
- LocationSouth Los Santos, near the ocean.
- AccessLimited; not always available for casual use unless entering with a chopper.
- FeaturesMultiple helipads, runway access, and military aircraft nearby.
3. Sandy Shores Airfield
Though technically an airstrip, the Sandy Shores Airfield also contains an open space where helicopters can be landed. This location is especially useful for Trevor, who frequently operates in this region.
- LocationBlaine County, near the Alamo Sea.
- AccessAccessible freely; becomes more useful as the story progresses.
- FeaturesHeli landings, fixed-wing aircraft takeoffs, and mission relevance.
4. Hospital Helipads
Several hospitals across the map have helipads on their rooftops. These locations are not intended for vehicle storage but can be used in emergencies or during certain missions.
- Example LocationCentral Los Santos Medical Center.
- AccessOpen access if approached in a helicopter.
- FeaturesRooftop helipads suitable for landings and temporary use.
5. Merryweather Docks
The private military contractor Merryweather has a helipad at their facility near the docks. Though it’s guarded and not meant for public access, players can land here during missions or if they’re being stealthy.
- LocationElysian Island.
- AccessRestricted; hostile territory.
- FeaturesGuard presence, private helicopters, mission importance.
6. Police Station Helipads
Police stations, especially in urban areas like Mission Row, have helipads on their rooftops. These are used during police chases or rescue missions and can be used by players with caution.
- LocationMission Row Police Department, and other precincts.
- AccessLimited; may trigger a wanted level if trespassed.
- FeaturesAccess to police choppers if successfully infiltrated.
7. Fort Zancudo
Fort Zancudo, the military base, has multiple helipads and helicopter spawns. This area is high-risk due to immediate hostile response if entered without authorization.
- LocationWest Blaine County, near the highway.
- AccessHeavily restricted; expect military resistance.
- FeaturesAttack choppers, tanks, jets, and military-grade helipads.
Using Helipads in GTA Online
In GTA Online, helipads play a slightly different role. Players can use them for
- Calling Pegasus for helicopter delivery.
- Spawning CEO/VIP vehicles like the Buzzard or Havok.
- Accessing helipads at owned properties such as yachts or high-end offices.
Helipads in Online mode are often tied to business operations, allowing faster travel between cargo pickups, VIP jobs, or heist setups.
Tips for Effective Helicopter Use
- Land SmoothlyAvoid crashing by practicing slow, vertical descents onto helipads.
- Know Your ExitAlways plan an escape route after landing in hostile zones.
- Check Map IconsHelicopters show up as small rotor icons on the map use this to identify their position quickly.
- Avoid No-Fly ZonesAreas like Fort Zancudo will engage you on sight stealth or speed is key.
Helipads in GTA 5 are more than just locations they’re strategic points that give players mobility, convenience, and tactical options. Whether you’re in Story Mode or GTA Online, knowing where to find helipads and how to use them effectively will enhance your experience dramatically. From the busy streets of Los Santos to the wild stretches of Blaine County, helicopters offer a unique way to engage with the world, and helipads are your launchpads into the sky.