A temporary heliport helped keep race-day operations running as more than 600 people flew to and from the Indianapolis 500.
Sweet Helicopters transported more than 600 passengers to and from this year's Indianapolis 500, setting a new record for the operator's race-day services at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
The company, which serves as the speedway's official helicopter provider, surpassed the previous record of 500 passengers established in 2025. A fleet of nine rotorcraft was deployed to move race fans and race teams, with helicopters operating from a landing site near turn two.
The operation faced an additional challenge this year following the closure of the Indianapolis Downtown heliport. To maintain service levels, Sweet Helicopters relocated one of its four pickup points and established a temporary heliport that included passenger facilities and received regulatory approval before race day.
Despite uncertain weather forecasts in the days leading up to the event, all inbound passenger flights operated without delay.
“The 110th running of the Indy 500 proved to be an instant classic and our biggest event of the year,” says Bob Bailey. “We love seeing so many happy race fans enjoying the comfort and convenience of flying with us.”
The operator also played a role in a notable motorsport milestone, transporting Katherine Legge to the airport following her Indianapolis 500 appearance so she could continue on to the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The achievement made Legge the first woman to compete in both events on the same day.
Among the passengers using the service was actor Terry Crews.
“The demand for this service has grown year after year, and we've always risen to the challenge. Just five years ago, we were transporting less than half as many people. This is only possible through the hard work and professionalism of our amazing pilots and technical team,” adds Bailey.
