Seeing the Grand Canyon from the air is a marvelous way to escape life's stresses, but it's even better than that -- it's the experience of a lifetime. The first time you gaze upon the Grand Canyon's impressive natural beauty, you'll realize you're living one of life's greatest moments. However, if you want to make the experience even better, take a canyon plane ride.

Most Grand Canyon airplane tours originate in Las Vegas and fly to the West and South Rims. Located near Tusayan, Arizona, the Grand Canyon National Park Airport is at the South Rim and is the location of another departure point.

Two types of airplane tours are available. The first type is an aerial tour, which flies over different parts of the Grand Canyon and then returns to the airport. Landing tours are more involved, departing only from Las Vegas but flying to both rims of the canyon. Perhaps the best of the West Rim tour packages will be the ones that include a Grand Canyon Skywalk pass, a helicopter ride and a rafting trip. For the South Rim, it will be a good idea to experience the helicopter rides along with a guide bus tour through the park.

Personally, I think the direct air flight from Las Vegas to the South Rim of the canyon is unbeatable. Why? To start with, you are going to avoid a 5 1/2 bus ride in favor of a 45 minute flight. This package will also include stops at great places like historic Grand Canyon Village, Mather Point and Yavapai Point. Then you will come back to Las Vegas and have a chance to spend the night on the town.

At the West Rim, there is no bigger attraction than the Grand Canyon Skywalk. Also called the "Glass Bridge," this amazing structure allows people to walk 70 feet out over the edge while being suspended some 3,500 feet above the canyon floor. The views from the Skywalk are absolutely awesome! Those looking for Grand Canyon airplane rides should note that there are no flights between the Rims, as Skywalk air tours will only depart from Las Vegas.

Due to their popularity, the Grand Canyon plane rides do sell out. You won't want to miss out on this, so be sure that you book your tour in advance. I always recommend that people book their tours at least 72 hours before their desired departure date. By booking ahead, you will have a better choice of tours and can even pick from more morning flights. Of course, you will find that in the morning you will have less turbulence and better visibility.

Grand Canyon plane rides are surprisingly affordable -- the price will fall somewhere in between a bus tour and a helicopter tour. You don't need to pay full price, though. Shopping online will give you some great discounts. You'll find that you can save as much as 30% on these tours and there are quite a few deals. Start your search by visiting the tour company's website because it will post its best discounts there. When you have the tour for you, be sure to book online to get the best discount. You won't want to spend more money by booking over the phone. When you locate the best Grand Canyon airplane rides and book online, you will be that much closer to a memorable journey.