7 Iconic Military Helicopters Repurposed for Civilian Adventure Tours

7 Iconic Military Helicopters Repurposed for Civilian Adventure Tours - Bell UH-1 Huey Tours Over the Grand Canyon

The Bell UH-1 Huey, a helicopter deeply intertwined with American military history, has transitioned into a surprising role: a vehicle for civilian adventure tourism. Notably, tours over the Grand Canyon utilize this iconic aircraft, providing visitors a remarkable opportunity to experience the canyon's breathtaking landscape from a unique perspective. While the Huey has earned a reputation for dependability and adaptability, those considering this type of tour should be prepared for a less luxurious experience compared to modern helicopters. However, the opportunity to soar over this natural wonder in a machine associated with pivotal moments in US military history offers a powerful narrative and thrilling element to the experience. It’s a testament to the aircraft’s legacy that it continues to serve, in a very different way, as it now gives those who appreciate history and natural beauty the chance to connect with the past while exploring majestic sights. The Huey's continuing role in adventure tourism is a compelling example of how past technologies can provide new and thrilling avenues for travel experiences.

The Bell UH-1 Huey, initially a workhorse for the military, is surprisingly well-suited for scenic flights over the Grand Canyon. With a top speed around 130 knots, covering the vast expanse of the canyon is relatively quick. Tour operators often take passengers to about 1,500 feet, offering a unique view of the geological wonder that's impossible from the ground. The Huey's rotor system, known for its robustness, is crucial given the Grand Canyon's variable weather.

Modern versions, with up-to-date communication equipment, enable swift communication with air traffic control in this busy airspace. The Huey's construction using aluminum and composites keeps it relatively light, which translates to better fuel economy, an important factor for tour operators. Pilots can leverage the Huey's impressive maneuverability to explore narrow canyons and rugged areas, giving access to seldom-seen perspectives of the Grand Canyon that other tours often miss.

Interestingly, while you'd expect a helicopter to be noisy, the Huey has some noise-reducing elements built-in. It’s a detail that improves the experience for those who want to fully soak in the surrounding beauty without the engine dominating the scene. Each Huey can usually carry around six passengers, which makes it a viable option for families or small groups looking for unique adventures.

It's also worth noting that the Huey has a rich history. Used extensively by the military since the 1960s, its iconic status transcends military service and gives civilian tours a unique angle. The flexibility of flight scheduling, particularly during sunset hours, enhances the visual appeal for tourists and assists operators in managing demand. This feature might be especially critical when weather conditions are optimal for stunning photos.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 Iconic Military Helicopters Repurposed for Civilian Adventure Tours - Bell UH-1 Huey Tours Over the Grand Canyon
2. 7 Iconic Military Helicopters Repurposed for Civilian Adventure Tours - Hughes OH-6 Cayuse Flights Around Maui's Coastline
3. 7 Iconic Military Helicopters Repurposed for Civilian Adventure Tours - Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk Trips to Alaska's Glaciers
4. 7 Iconic Military Helicopters Repurposed for Civilian Adventure Tours - Boeing CH-47 Chinook Excursions in the Rocky Mountains
5. 7 Iconic Military Helicopters Repurposed for Civilian Adventure Tours - Sikorsky S-58 Adventures Through Hawaiian Volcanoes
6. 7 Iconic Military Helicopters Repurposed for Civilian Adventure Tours - McDonnell Douglas MD 500 Safaris in African Savannas
7. 7 Iconic Military Helicopters Repurposed for Civilian Adventure Tours - Bell AH-1 Cobra Expeditions Over Arizona's Red Rocks

7 Iconic Military Helicopters Repurposed for Civilian Adventure Tours - Hughes OH-6 Cayuse Flights Around Maui's Coastline

The Hughes OH-6 Cayuse, often nicknamed the "Loach", has traded its military duties for a new role: showcasing the beauty of Maui's coastline through civilian adventure flights. Initially designed for reconnaissance and observation in the military, this agile helicopter's capabilities translate well to offering unique aerial perspectives of the island. Visitors can experience sweeping vistas of Maui's varied landscapes, from the lush interior to the pristine beaches, all while riding in a machine with a somewhat rugged past. This shift from the intense combat environments of the Vietnam War to leisurely tourism highlights the Cayuse's adaptability. It offers a novel way for adventure enthusiasts to explore the natural beauty of Hawaii and connect with a piece of aviation history. However, potential passengers should be aware that the Cayuse's military roots might translate into a less luxurious flight experience compared to more modern helicopter models available.

The Hughes OH-6 Cayuse, a helicopter initially developed for military roles, has found a new purpose in offering scenic flights along Maui's picturesque coastline. Its design, characterized by a four-blade main rotor, provides a stable and smooth ride even during the sometimes turbulent conditions along the island's rugged coast. The Cayuse's relatively light weight, coming in around 3,100 pounds, results in a surprising fuel efficiency, extending flight times for tour operators and minimizing the financial costs associated with longer journeys.

At a cruising speed of roughly 120 knots, the OH-6 can complete a tour around the entire island much faster compared to surface transportation, thus offering tourists a compressed timeframe to experience a greater variety of coastal views. Its tail rotor is also worth noting, being a fenestron design which generates a quieter ride, enhancing the enjoyment of the coastal landscapes without a cacophony of mechanical noise constantly disrupting the sensory experience.

Pilots can leverage the helicopter's advanced avionics to manage weather conditions and optimize flight paths for ideal sightseeing, reacting swiftly to airspace adjustments. The OH-6's agility, developed for its original reconnaissance mission profile, is a critical asset for Maui tours. It's ideally suited to navigate the island's dramatic cliffs and hidden bays, showing tourists hard-to-reach regions that often escape land or sea-based sightseeing tours.

The OH-6 is designed with a bubble cockpit, giving a passenger near-360 degree visibility of the surrounding scenery. The unobstructed views provide an excellent photographic opportunity and can be a highlight for many tourists. The original production run involved over 1,400 units, many of which are now fulfilling a second life in the civilian sector, indicating the platform's resilience and adaptability to different environments. Its typical capacity of four to five passengers makes it well-suited for small groups and families who seek an exciting way to experience Maui's scenic coastline while minimizing the size and noise of larger helicopters.


The repurposing of the OH-6 Cayuse for adventure tourism offers an interesting case study in how a military aircraft can evolve to support recreational activities. While the design may have evolved since its conception, one might ponder if some aspects like rotor technology, noise suppression, or fuel efficiency have changed or lagged behind in the transition to civilian use. Nevertheless, the success of these flights underscores the public's interest in exploring and viewing the landscape from a different perspective.

7 Iconic Military Helicopters Repurposed for Civilian Adventure Tours - Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk Trips to Alaska's Glaciers

The Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk, a helicopter synonymous with military operations, has surprisingly transitioned into a tool for civilian adventure in Alaska. This medium-lift helicopter, originally designed for the US Army, has adapted to showcase the unique beauty of Alaska's glaciers and vast wilderness. Its ability to cruise at speeds up to 159 mph and travel over 300 nautical miles makes it ideally suited for exploring Alaska's remote landscapes. The Black Hawk can access areas not easily reached by other aircraft, allowing passengers a different perspective on the raw beauty of glaciers and the surrounding environment.

While those used to luxury travel might find the Black Hawk's interior a far cry from some modern helicopters, the journey itself carries a distinct sense of adventure and historical connection, which are often considered a unique selling point. The Black Hawk's rugged military heritage is woven into the experience, enhancing the sense of exploration for those seeking a more visceral connection to the Alaskan wilderness. As travelers continue to crave novel and immersive travel experiences, the Black Hawk’s re-purposing as a tour vehicle represents a fascinating twist in the long story of this capable helicopter.

The Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk, a helicopter born from military needs, is increasingly finding its place in civilian adventure tours, particularly in the dramatic landscape of Alaska's glaciers. Its design, originally focused on utility and troop transport, translates well to the challenges of glacier exploration. Reaching speeds of about 150 knots, the Black Hawk can swiftly access remote glacier areas, a significant advantage for tours needing time efficiency.

The ability to ascend to altitudes near 20,000 feet is a hallmark of the Black Hawk, allowing it to easily access higher elevation glaciers and provide truly breathtaking views of the landscape. This capability is crucial in Alaska's diverse terrain, where high-altitude access is often needed to reach the most spectacular glaciers. The Black Hawk's four-blade rotor system, both main and tail, is a testament to its engineering: it provides substantial lift capacity, potentially allowing for heavier payloads on a tour. This could be beneficial for tours that want to bring along extra gear for adventurous activities like glacier hiking or climbing.

Reliability is a key consideration in Alaska's often unpredictable weather, and the Black Hawk excels here. The helicopter's design incorporates robustness and redundant systems, largely thanks to its military origins, resulting in a platform that can operate dependably in demanding conditions. One particular aspect is the 'energy-absorbing' landing gear. This feature isn't just for robustness; it can enhance passenger comfort during landings on uneven glacier surfaces, potentially leading to a smoother and more enjoyable tour.

Although derived from a military platform, the Black Hawk has been adapted for civilian needs. Enhanced avionics help pilots navigate through changing Alaskan weather, which is especially vital for glacier tours given the frequent rapid shifts in conditions. The spacious cabin, with a capacity of up to 11 passengers, is not just a space for thrilling aerial views, but also a comfortable environment for families or groups.

It's also worth exploring the fact that Black Hawks, unlike many civilian helicopters, are equipped with infrared and night vision technology. This means that in the long summer days, tours can potentially leverage this capability to explore glaciers under the unique light of twilight, creating a rare experience for passengers. While most helicopters rely on a single engine, the Black Hawk's twin engines provide a considerable safety margin, offering greater peace of mind during tours.

Finally, the helicopter's advanced propulsion and aerodynamic design contribute to surprisingly good fuel efficiency, potentially allowing tour operators to offer competitively priced glacier excursions. This could be a driving factor in making such adventurous experiences more accessible to a wider group of travelers. It's interesting to observe how the Black Hawk's technical advancements and its adaptability to a civilian role might spark innovations in other sectors of aviation or travel.

7 Iconic Military Helicopters Repurposed for Civilian Adventure Tours - Boeing CH-47 Chinook Excursions in the Rocky Mountains

The Boeing CH-47 Chinook, a helicopter renowned for its incredible lifting capacity, has found a new role in the adventure tourism realm, especially in the spectacular Rocky Mountains. This iconic helicopter, originally built for military use, offers travelers a distinct way to experience the breathtaking scenery of this region from the air. Its unique tandem rotor system, a defining feature of the Chinook, offers remarkable stability and incredible lifting power, creating a thrilling experience as passengers soar over the awe-inspiring mountain ranges, rugged terrains, and scenic valleys.

However, anyone considering this type of tour should know that the Chinook's original design for military operations leads to a rather utilitarian and functional flying experience. Unlike some newer, more tourist-focused helicopters, the Chinook's interior might not have the same luxury or comfort features. Still, its ability to provide access to otherwise challenging landscapes and deliver breathtaking aerial views makes it an appealing choice for those who are drawn to adventure and appreciate experiencing this iconic aircraft in a unique way. As more travelers seek out distinctive and immersive travel encounters, the Chinook's shift from a military workhorse to an adventure vehicle illustrates the current fascination with connecting with history and technology while exploring remarkable natural destinations.

The Boeing CH-47 Chinook, a heavy-lift helicopter initially designed for military operations, offers a unique perspective on the Rocky Mountains through civilian excursion flights. This aircraft's design, particularly the tandem rotor system, gives it remarkable lifting capability (up to 55,000 pounds) while maintaining stability during flights over the challenging mountain terrain. Its impressive speed, exceeding 170 knots, allows for covering large areas of the Rockies in relatively short periods, enabling passengers to experience a wider range of landscapes within a single trip.

Furthermore, the Chinook's generous passenger capacity of up to 38 passengers caters to larger groups and families who desire an adventure in the mountains. Its robust design and advanced avionics allow for operations in high-altitude and potentially adverse weather conditions, all while showcasing the beauty of the Rockies. The helicopter's history, stretching back to the 1960s, and its continuous upgrades illustrate the reliability and adaptability of this platform, making it a fascinating subject for aviation enthusiasts on the tour.

Experiencing a flight in a Chinook is distinct from smaller helicopters due to the greater vibrations and noise generated by the dual rotor system. This creates a strong connection to the machine’s power and can be a highlight for those seeking thrilling experiences. The Chinook's vertical lift capabilities allow it to reach significant altitudes, soaring over and through mountain passes, unveiling stunning aerial views usually inaccessible by other means.

The adaptability of the Chinook's design allows it to be modified for different excursions. For instance, cargo areas can be modified to accommodate netting for adventure equipment, making it ideal for guided mountain hiking or sightseeing tours. Despite its size and military background, the Chinook operates with surprisingly efficient fuel consumption for its lifting capacity. This efficiency can contribute to cost-effective tour operations, potentially expanding the reach of these mountain helicopter excursions to a wider demographic. It's a testament to the helicopter's ingenious engineering that it can transition seamlessly from rigorous military deployments to captivating civilian tours, proving its enduring relevance and adaptability in a constantly evolving aviation landscape.

7 Iconic Military Helicopters Repurposed for Civilian Adventure Tours - Sikorsky S-58 Adventures Through Hawaiian Volcanoes

The Sikorsky S-58, a helicopter with a strong military background, has found a new purpose as a platform for showcasing Hawaii's volcanic landscapes. Initially designed for tasks like search and rescue, this aircraft now provides a thrilling way to experience the dramatic beauty of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and its surroundings. From the air, passengers get an unparalleled perspective of volcanic craters, lava flows, and other remarkable geological features. This transformation from military utility to civilian adventure tours underscores the aircraft's versatility and Hawaii's enduring allure as a destination for natural wonders. While these tours offer a captivating way to see the islands, one shouldn't expect a smooth, luxurious ride. The S-58 is built with a more utilitarian approach, reflecting its origins, which translates into a less refined flight compared to some of the newer helicopter models used for civilian travel. It's a reminder that this aircraft carries with it a story of military service, adding a unique element to the adventure.

The Sikorsky S-58, also known as the H-34, is an intriguing helicopter with a fascinating journey from military service to civilian adventure tours, especially over the Hawaiian volcanoes. Initially designed for anti-submarine warfare, it represents a significant step in Sikorsky's helicopter development, featuring a more powerful engine and improved aerodynamics compared to its predecessor, the S-55. Interestingly, the S-58 was the last Sikorsky helicopter to be powered by a radial engine, marking a distinct era in helicopter design for the company during the 1950s.

While originally pitched to the US Navy and Marines, the S-58 didn't win those contracts. Instead, it found its niche in various military utility and rescue roles. Today, however, its legacy lives on in a different way – offering thrilling sightseeing experiences over the unique volcanic landscapes of Hawaii.

One of the compelling aspects of the S-58 is its fully articulated rotor system, which delivers a degree of stability and maneuverability essential for flying in the often turbulent air near active volcanoes. This ability to fly stably is also beneficial for passengers who can focus more on the stunning landscape instead of worrying about the ride.

Some S-58s are fitted with thermal infrared cameras, a capability that lets tourists witness volcanic activity in real-time. These thermal sensors essentially transform the tour into a glimpse into ongoing geological processes, offering an exciting angle for anyone with an interest in volcanoes and earth science. This blend of adventure and science is what drives many to choose a volcano tour in the first place.

The S-58's capacity to carry up to twelve passengers makes it a viable option for families or small groups interested in exploring the region. It's also an interesting example of the early days of helicopter design, where the engineering choices were clearly intended to maximize both passenger space and performance.

With a range around 250 miles and a cruise speed near 100 knots, the S-58 can efficiently cover a wide area of Hawaii, allowing tour operators to include many sites of interest. While noise levels in helicopters are a common concern for passengers, the S-58's design incorporates some features to suppress noise, resulting in a more tranquil ride. This feature allows tourists to better appreciate the unique soundscape of Hawaii's volcanic regions during their flight.

Beyond its recreational role, the S-58's adaptability makes it suitable for tasks like heavy lifting or even fighting fires. The capability demonstrates the helicopter's potential in diverse civilian applications. The S-58's twin engines result in remarkable fuel efficiency for a helicopter of its size and class, leading to competitive pricing for tour operators. The helicopter's robustness is a consequence of its original design, which emphasizes resilience for harsh military environments, something that benefits passengers who want to be assured of safe flights even in less-than-ideal Hawaiian weather.

Furthermore, most tour routes pass iconic sites like Kilauea or Mauna Loa volcanoes, offering passengers a chance to witness active lava flows. The opportunity to experience the raw power of nature coupled with the adventure of a helicopter ride is the attraction for many. It's interesting to consider how the S-58, a machine born out of military demands, has found new life as a way to explore the natural wonders of Hawaii, revealing both the enduring utility of older technology and the public's interest in experiencing the world in novel ways.

The helicopter's adaptability and robust design offer a great illustration of how innovation and engineering can lead to unexpected applications, especially in a domain like adventure tourism. While it's unclear how much longer the S-58 will remain in service, its story demonstrates how legacy aircraft can find new uses to the delight of travellers interested in both history and exploration.

7 Iconic Military Helicopters Repurposed for Civilian Adventure Tours - McDonnell Douglas MD 500 Safaris in African Savannas

The McDonnell Douglas MD 500, a helicopter with a military past, has found a new role in adventure tourism, especially in the African savanna. Originally designed for military purposes, its agility and compact size make it ideal for exploring hard-to-reach areas, offering a unique perspective on wildlife and stunning landscapes that traditional safaris cannot match. Tours often focus on well-known locations like the Serengeti and the Masai Mara, where passengers can take in incredible aerial views while learning from experienced guides. Some even offer tailored options like guided walking safaris. While this type of helicopter safari might thrill adventurers, passengers should expect a more utilitarian experience compared to luxurious modern helicopters. The MD 500's design origins are evident in its interior, which might not be as fancy as what some modern helicopter operators offer. This type of travel is increasingly popular, with many wanting unique travel experiences, and the MD 500's role in safari tourism exemplifies the merging of historical technology with modern adventure tourism.

The McDonnell Douglas MD 500, a descendant of the Hughes 500, showcases clever helicopter engineering. At roughly 39 feet long, it manages to carry up to six people while remaining incredibly agile, a crucial trait for navigating the often-tight spaces found within the African savannas. It's a testament to efficient design that such a compact helicopter can still offer a relatively roomy passenger compartment.


Capable of reaching speeds up to 140 knots, the MD 500 can swiftly traverse the large expanse of the savannas. This speed is beneficial for tours focused on wildlife, as operators can cover significant ground efficiently in pursuit of the animal inhabitants of these environments. It's fascinating how this capability makes wildlife watching accessible to a greater number of tourists.


Although born out of a military design, the MD 500 displays versatility in its application. It's readily employed in various situations, from emergency medical responses to aerial photography, proving its usefulness in a variety of contexts. This capability highlights the helicopter's engineering prowess. It is no surprise that tour operators and others find it useful for adventure travel and more serious-minded applications.


Passengers on the MD 500 benefit from the large, almost bubble-shaped, cockpit windows. These provide an outstanding view of the environment, making spotting animals much easier and contributing to a more immersive wildlife experience. This design element highlights a thoughtfulness towards the user experience which is often missing in purely utilitarian helicopter designs.


This helicopter, at a weight of around 2,200 pounds, is classified as a "light" helicopter. This low weight contributes to both remarkable fuel efficiency and enhances its ability to operate under the sometimes harsh and unpredictable African weather conditions. One might wonder if this trade-off in weight, and its implication on passenger capacity and payload, might be detrimental under certain conditions, but it appears to be well-balanced for its intended role.


Powering the MD 500 is a Rolls-Royce 250 series turbine engine, which has earned a reputation for both reliability and high performance in challenging environments. This choice of engine yields a favorable power-to-weight ratio, a significant factor when operating in the often-hot African climate. Such performance demands probably necessitate a level of advanced mechanical and aerodynamic design that may make the MD 500 maintenance and operations more specialized and potentially complex.


The MD 500 demonstrates its operational flexibility with its quick reconfiguration capabilities. In just a few minutes, it can be adjusted for varying cargo needs or passenger seating arrangements. This ability is essential for tour operators as they need to respond to shifting requirements during trips, including emergency situations. This versatility suggests a focus on modularity that can lead to unexpected advantages for future development of the aircraft platform.


When compared to other aerial tour platforms, the MD 500 boasts lower operational costs. This cost-effectiveness can lead to more accessible pricing for tours, encouraging greater tourism in different regions. However, the question arises of whether lower operating costs lead to cuts in maintenance and safety protocols that might result in adverse events. It's something that one should have in the back of one's mind.


The MD 500 features design elements aimed at reducing noise. The rotors and engine mounts are particularly engineered to minimize the noise impact. This low-noise attribute creates a better environment for wildlife tours, reducing the disturbances to wildlife and increasing the likelihood of a peaceful coexistence with animals while touring the savanna. It's interesting to imagine the long-term impact of such aircraft on delicate ecosystems in less-developed nations.


The helicopter's ability to remain relatively stable and hover efficiently thanks to its robust rotor design makes it highly agile. This level of control allows for highly precise flight maneuvers, a significant advantage when looking for wildlife in the midst of the wild African landscape. This stability and precision flying, and its reliance on highly responsive flight control surfaces, might make it more challenging to fly in adverse weather, and a highly-skilled pilot is probably an important aspect for a smooth travel experience.

7 Iconic Military Helicopters Repurposed for Civilian Adventure Tours - Bell AH-1 Cobra Expeditions Over Arizona's Red Rocks

Soaring over Arizona's striking red rock formations in a Bell AH-1 Cobra helicopter blends a unique historical perspective with modern-day adventure. Initially crafted as a potent attack helicopter for military use, this iconic aircraft now offers a distinctive experience for civilian thrill-seekers. The Cobra, renowned for its maneuverability and formidable weaponry in military service, now finds itself repurposed for recreational flights, which is intriguing. This transition leads to some thoughtful reflections on the delicate balance between celebrating the Cobra's legacy and embracing its current recreational role. While offering exhilarating aerial views and a unique flight experience, you shouldn't anticipate the same luxury found in many modern civilian helicopters. Still, the prospect of experiencing a ride in this iconic military helicopter delivers an extraordinary opportunity to marvel at aviation's remarkable capabilities while simultaneously taking in the natural wonders of Arizona's famous red rock landscapes.

The Bell AH-1 Cobra, initially developed as a single-engine attack helicopter for the US Army, has found an unexpected niche: adventure tours over Arizona's captivating red rock landscapes. Its origins as a gunship, primarily used for close air support and ground attack during the Vietnam War, might seem at odds with its current purpose. Yet, the Cobra's design has proven surprisingly adaptable, offering a unique perspective of Arizona's rugged terrain.

With a top speed around 130 knots, the Cobra is quick enough to cover significant distances, which is important for tours maximizing scenic views over areas like Sedona's red rock formations. Modern upgrades include advanced avionics and communication systems, improving situational awareness for the pilot and boosting passenger safety in crowded airspace. It is constructed with a blend of aluminum and composite materials, which keeps its weight down, enhancing both maneuverability and fuel efficiency. This lighter construction is beneficial in areas with challenging terrain.

The Cobra's rotor system, designed for agility, allows for impressive maneuvers. It can easily handle tight turns and swift climbs, essential for showcasing narrow canyons and unique rock formations often overlooked by larger helicopters. Interestingly, despite its combat roots, modern versions of the Cobra incorporate noise reduction features. This results in a calmer and more immersive experience for passengers wanting to soak in the natural beauty of the Arizona landscape.

The typical configuration accommodates a few passengers alongside the pilot, creating a more intimate experience. This setup allows passengers a unique and less compartmentalized perspective of the red rock scenery. Additionally, energy-absorbing landing gear, initially designed for rugged landings on battlefields, contributes to passenger comfort during landings on potentially uneven terrain.

The Cobra’s historical significance adds a compelling narrative to the adventure. It's a chance for visitors to witness a piece of military aviation history during a recreational experience. The helicopter's original design, optimized for various combat environments, translates well to navigating Arizona's terrain, giving passengers access to a wide variety of stunning views. Due to its engineering, the Cobra can be operated more affordably than many newer luxury helicopters, making it a more accessible option for exploring the beauty of Arizona's unique landscapes.

While its transformation from a battlefield weapon to an aerial tour vehicle might seem surprising, it highlights the adaptability and inherent qualities of its design. It showcases how well-engineered military platforms can be repurposed for exciting civilian adventures, providing travelers a chance to explore stunning landscapes and connect with a distinct part of aviation history. However, it is worth keeping in mind that the AH-1 Cobra has certain limitations. It's an older design that may not be as smooth or comfortable as some newer, more refined helicopters built for tourist purposes. The choice between historical aviation experience versus a more luxurious tour experience is an individual one, one where the potential risks and benefits should be weighed and considered.