Fortunately, even if you are on a tight budget, you will be able to find some great Grand Canyon flight deals. There are discounts available for up to 30 percent off the regular price, and there are two-for-one specials, and even packages that include Vegas show tickets. You can thank the law of supply and demand as well as competition for this remarkable phenomenon. There are quite a few tour operators who provide air tours of the canyon, and all of them want your money. Here are a few tips you can use to help you get the best deal for your money.

Like most other vacation destinations, prices vary by season. Low season at the canyon is November to February, and although fewer visitors go there during winter, the planes are still flying. The cost of tours drops during this time since businesses want to fill the empty seats. Winter is a fabulous time to visit the canyon. There may be snow, but the atmosphere is crisp and clear, and that makes for near perfect viewing conditions from an aircraft.

The busy tourist season is during the summer. Tour prices are usually high during the summer months, but not if you book at least two or three days before your flight. So if you wait until the last minute to buy your tickets, you will pay more than you have to.

Proper planning will ensure you don't waste money on last-minute fares. I've learned that you need to do three things to find the best Grand Canyon airplane discounts.

First, remember to book your tour at least three days before your flight. Booking several weeks ahead is even better. Plus, by being an early bird, you will get your choice of tour and flight time. A landing tour is highly recommended, and you will want a morning flight so you have plenty of time to complete your tour.

Second, if you want to save money, then don't book your air tour through your hotel concierge in Vegas or from one of those kiosks on the Strip.

Last, reserve your tour online. You may want to talk to a 'real person' for information and details, but if you want a nice discount on your flight, book it and pay for it online.

Here are a few more tips:

Not all tour operators are the same, so you can find a variety of discounts. Some deals may come with a price, especially if it involves shortening your trip. You won't get to see as much of the Grand Canyon if you go on an abbreviated trip.

Compare costs among as many companies as you can before you buy a tour. But in addition to the ticket price, you should take some other factors into account: the tour's time in the air; whether the time and date are convenient; the parts of the Grand Canyon that are covered; and your overall comfort.

You will have to choose between an aerial tour or a landing tour. Picking a tour that goes to the South Rim means you will get to view the other rims as well. You could also choose a tour that adds a scenic three-hour smooth-water rafting trip down the Colorado River. Float trips take off from the Glen Canyon Dam.

You can also take an air tour of the West Rim, and the enjoy a spectacular landing excursion. For example, one West Rim landing tour includes a helicopter flight down to the canyon floor. Other tours include fun side trips such as the chance to walk out over the canyon on a glass skywalk, or a scenic ride down the Colorado River. Landing tours are great fun and you are certain to find one you will really enjoy.

It is pretty easy to find a great deal on an air tour of the Grand Canyon, but you may need to do some comparison shopping. Remember to book early and pay online. By paying online at the tour company's site, you can get the best price.