On May 2, 2026, I attended an open house at Saratoga County Airport celebrating the new restaurant, Sunset at Saratoga.

 The restaurant is a new spot at the airport where visitors can watch aircraft taking off, taxiing, and landing, including jets, general aviation planes, gliders, and helicopters, while enjoying food, making it a great place for the public. During the event, there was also a table set up by Independent Helicopters offering rides for $60. I knew a few people there, including the instructor Jesse, who I had met before, so I decided to take the opportunity.

I went on a helicopter ride in a Robinson R22 Beta II, taking off from Saratoga. Right after takeoff, we saw a Cessna Citation jet taxiing on the ramp after landing. During the flight, we got great views of Saratoga Lake and the Saratoga Race Course. The ride lasted about 10 to 12 minutes, and it was definitely worth it since it had been on my bucket list. I’m really glad I got the chance to fly with Independent Helicopters and experience it firsthand