Aerial Advertising: A Guide to Airplane Banners, Skywriting, Drones and More

Aerial advertising encompasses any type of marketing taking place in the sky. Airplanes towing banners, skywriting, drones, blimps, and even flogos are all forms of aerial advertising. This advertising medium is cost-effective and faces very little competition, making it an attractive choice for brands seeking visibility in crowded markets.Aerial advertising dates back to before World War II, when an airport owner in New Hampshire attached banners to his fleet of J3 Cubs. After the war, the format gained significant traction as a unique way to connect with audiences. Over the decades, technological advancements and creative approaches have elevated aerial advertising to an art form.While aerial advertising may not be as mainstream as other types of outdoor advertising, its uniqueness has earned it a dedicated following among advertisers. It offers high visibility and creates a memorable experience for audiences, making it particularly effective in areas with dense populations or during major events.From classic airplane banners to cutting-edge drone displays, this guide explores the diverse possibilities of aerial advertising and answers all your questions about this dynamic format. Let’s dive in!

Airplane Banner Towing Cost

Sky banners typically cost less than a traditional billboard in major cities like New York City or Los Angeles. The cost for airplane banners usually starts with a two-hour minimum per day, ranging from $7,000 to $9,000 depending on the location and flight duration.The price includes several components:

• Ferry fees: Covers the airplane’s travel to your desired location.
• Flight time: Includes the pilot’s time in the air to display your advertisement.
• Banner creation: Custom-designed banners are prepared to ensure visibility and branding impact.

Advertisers have two primary options:

• Logo boards: These include your company’s logo and a brief tagline. They are cost-effective yet impactful for brand visibility.
• Aerial billboards: Larger, custom-created billboards with detailed designs and high-quality visuals that mimic traditional billboards.

For an extra layer of engagement, QR codes can now be integrated into banners, encouraging viewers to interact digitally by scanning them with their smartphones.

What Type of Ads Work for Airplane Banners?

Static banners are the most common choice for airplane advertising. They feature concise text, a logo, and a compelling call-to-action. Recently, some advertisers have taken the concept further by experimenting with towing illuminated signs, which are visible at night and highly memorable. However, nighttime activations can cost more due to the additional equipment and specialized requirements.

For businesses with higher budgets, helicopter advertising is another option. Helicopters can tow larger banners, hover closer to the ground, and even carry digital displays, providing an extra level of visibility and engagement.Creative advertisers have also started integrating hashtags or social media handles into banners to encourage online interaction and amplify campaign reach. These strategies help bridge traditional advertising with the digital world.

Weather Restrictions for Skywriting

Skywriting is a fun and highly visible form of aerial advertising that often garners significant social media attention. However, its effectiveness is heavily dependent on weather conditions. It works best on clear days with minimal wind and high humidity, as these factors help the smoke trails stay visible for longer periods.If adverse weather conditions arise, campaigns may be delayed, potentially disrupting schedules. Advertisers looking for reliability in all weather may consider alternatives like drones or LED screens, which can operate under a wider range of conditions.For added creativity, some brands have experimented with “skytyping,” a method where multiple planes coordinate to create more intricate, large-scale messages in the sky.

How Much Is Skywriting?

Skywriting is often more affordable than other forms of aerial advertising. Costs generally cap at around $5,000 for a single activation, which includes ferry fees and operational time. Most skywriting campaigns last for a day, making them ideal for short, impactful messages like announcements or event promotions.For advertisers seeking night-time impact, laser projection ads are a modern alternative. These can project visuals and text onto clear skies or buildings, providing a unique twist on traditional skywriting.

The Ins and Outs of Flogos

Think of flogos as UFOs — unidentified foamy objects. These lightweight foam logos are made from helium and soap bubbles, allowing them to float gently through the air. Often released in groups, flogos create a whimsical and engaging spectacle that captures attention at outdoor events, parades, or festivals.For brands looking to add an interactive element, flogos can be paired with on-ground activations such as product giveaways, contests, or photo booths. This combination creates a memorable, multi-layered experience that leaves a lasting impression on audiences.

The New Kid: Drone Advertising

Drones are the newest addition to aerial advertising and have been growing in popularity over the past decade. While early use cases focused on simple banners or signs, modern drone shows have taken things to a new level. Synchronized drone fleets can form dynamic shapes, logos, or messages, providing a breathtaking display that’s hard to ignore.Drones have been effectively used at high-profile events such as the Super Bowl, the Democratic National Convention, and Coachella. These activations not only capture attention but also generate significant social media buzz.Additionally, drones can drop promotional items like flyers, coupons, or branded giveaways, making them ideal for concerts, festivals, or trade shows where crowd engagement is key.

Ideal Locations for Aerial Advertising

Aerial advertising is most effective in areas where large crowds gather, ensuring maximum exposure and engagement. The following locations are ideal for launching aerial campaigns:

• Beaches: Coastal areas are prime locations for aerial ads, especially during summer when beaches are packed with vacationers. People lounging or walking on the shore are more likely to notice banners or skywriting due to the open skyline and relaxed atmosphere.
• Festivals and Concerts: Large outdoor events like music festivals, fairs, and concerts attract massive audiences, making them excellent venues for aerial advertising. Drone shows, illuminated banners, or helicopters can add to the spectacle of the event while delivering your brand’s message.
• Sports Events: High-profile events like the Super Bowl, World Cup matches, or local tournaments offer unparalleled visibility. With audiences in the tens of thousands at the venue and millions watching on television, aerial ads can create a buzz that extends far beyond the stadium.
• Urban Centers: Cities with dense populations, such as New York, Los Angeles, or Tokyo, are fantastic for aerial campaigns. Airplanes or drones can fly over busy areas to maximize reach.