best new york city helicopter tour

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The 4 best nyc helicopter rides and tours.

Take a New York City helicopter tour to gain a new perspective of the Big Apple.

The Best NYC Helicopter Rides and Tours

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New York City has one of the most magnificent skylines in the world, and admiring it from the air aboard a helicopter tour is a sightseeing experience unlike any other. You can choose from varying flight lengths and departure locations, though many take you over the same key attractions. U.S. News compiled this list of the best helicopter tours in the city, with the help of traveler opinion and expert input.

Note: Many helicopter tour providers charge a heliport (facility) fee on top of the tour price. The cost varies by provider, but you can expect to pay $30 to $40 per passenger.

HeliNY – The Ultimate Tour

Price: From $249 Duration: 20 minutes

Get a bird's-eye view of the world-famous Manhattan skyline on this flight with HeliNY. On the Ultimate Tour – the company's most popular – the pilot will treat you and up to five other passengers to aerial views of many top city sights, like the Statue of Liberty, the George Washington Bridge, the Empire State Building, Central Park, Yankee Stadium and more. Reviewers describe seeing "million dollar" views on this tour and say the crew was highly professional and informative, with several describing the helicopter tour as a "once-in-a-lifetime" experience that's worth the money. However, a few travelers express disappointment in the flight's short length.

Tours depart Monday through Saturday beginning at 9 a.m.; the last tour takes off at 5 p.m. All tours leave from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport. Children younger than 2 ride for free in an adult's lap. HeliNY offers a variety of tours departing from both Manhattan and New Jersey, including outings that last about 30 minutes and a private helicopter tour option.

Check prices & availability on:

HeliNY – City Skyline Experience        

Price: From $244 Duration: 30 minutes

On this New York City helicopter tour, which departs from New Jersey's Linden Airport, you'll soar high above Manhattan and over the Hudson River to see attractions like Central Park, Hudson Yards, the Chrysler Building and One World Trade Center. Tourgoers call the experience the highlight of their New York trip and highly praise the organized staff and the personable pilot. Some note that you cannot see much from the craft's middle seat.

There is no cost for children younger than 2, who must sit on an adult's lap. Tours, which are limited to six passengers, are available Monday through Saturday in the evenings (exact times depend on the time of year). There are departures all day long on Sunday.

Zip Aviation – Liberty Harbor Helicopter Tour

Price: From $229 Duration: 15 minutes

If you're short on time or looking for a slightly more budget-friendly option, book this tour, which flies over most of the major Manhattan attractions. On the flight, you'll see the Statue of Liberty, the National September 11 Memorial, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building and Times Square, among other sights. Most reviewers describe it as a smooth ride with incredible views. However, some note that seats are assigned upon arrival (based on weight) and it can be difficult to see from the middle seat. If you would like to guarantee a good seat and a great view, the company recommends booking a private tour.

Tours are available Monday through Saturday approximately every 30 minutes between 9:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Flights depart from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport. If you're looking for a slightly longer flight, consider Zip Aviation's Big City Helicopter Tour or its Grand Island Helicopter Tour.

Zip Aviation – Grand Island Helicopter Tour

Price: From $359 Duration: 30 minutes

On this ride, you'll spot key NYC sights like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park and the Empire State Building, as well as Ellis Island, Yankee Stadium, Harlem and the USS Intrepid. Along the way, you'll hear a prerecorded narration about the sights below. Tour-takers describe the staff as courteous and professional, and they say the views are outstanding.

Flights are available to book Monday through Saturday; they depart every half-hour from about 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. You can also choose from various other tours the company offers, including a nighttime flight of the city skyline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Anytime is a great time to take a helicopter tour. Companies often recommend booking your tour early in your trip in case your flight is canceled. This way, you have ample chances to rebook.

The weight limit per passenger ranges from 275 to 300 pounds. Some companies will require individuals who weigh more than 250 pounds to purchase an additional seat. Check your chosen provider's policies before you book. Also keep in mind that you'll be seated in the helicopter based on weight to keep the craft balanced during flight.

Tipping your pilot is not required but generally appreciated. If you choose to tip, pay about $20 per person. You could also tip about 15% of the total cost of your tour.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best New York City Walking Tours
• The Best New York City Boat Tours
• The Best New York City Food Tours
• The Best Hotels in New York City
• The Best Travel Medical Insurance

Tags: Travel , Vacations , Tours , New York City

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The 11 Best Helicopter Tours in NYC for 2024

A helicopter tour is one of the most exciting things you can do during your stay in NYC, but picking the best helicopter tour in NYC is not an easy task, especially if you have no idea what to look for. Luckily for you, we have tried and tested them all!

In this article, we will compare all of the best helicopter tours in NYC as well as recommend to you our absolute favorite, which is in our opinion has the best value for money.

Looking for a shortcut? Click here to  👉 compare the helicopter flights , see 👉  my personal recommendation  or see 👉  all details including my review of the helicopter tours.

Last but not least try our 👉  Helicopter Flight Finder that helps to find the perfect helicopter tour for you!

Which is the Best Helicopter Tour in NYC?

Depending on what you are looking for, there are three categories of helicopter rides over New York City: Short helicopter rides, medium helicopter rides, and long helicopter rides. Which one of these is best for you will depend on your budget and how long you want to spend taking in the sights of New York from above. We have broken the helicopter flights down, in order to give you a choice in each category.

Please note: There are no helicopter tours in NYC on Sundays from Manhattan (but from New Jersey!), meaning that helicopter rides on other days may get sold out faster. If you can help it, don’t wait until the day before to book it, as you may be out of luck. We recommend booking your NYC helicopter flight 1-2 weeks in advance.

My Recommendation

I can recommend you three helicopter flights over NYC: first of all the New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour , because in my opinion it offers the best price-performance ratio and starts right in Manhattan. So you don’t have a long way to get there.

The cheapest helicopter flight, which also does not require a transfer, is the Manhattan Island Helicopter Tour . I have done both several times and it was always the highlight of my New York trip!

If you want to take a helicopter ride with several people and are looking for a cheap provider, check out the Taste of NYC Helicopter Tour !

All Helicopter Tours in Detail

While in the table above only the 4 to 6 most important helicopter flights are shown, here you can find all helicopter tours in detail. For each one you will find a separate review from me!

Manhattan Island Helicopter Tour

Departure: Downtown Manhattan Heliport | 12 – 15 Minutes | The Manhattan Sky Tour is the perfect helicopter ride for first time visitors to NYC! Seeing the skyscrapers and streets of Manhattan from above is an experience that you will will definitly not be forgetting any time soon. Seeing NYC’s main attractions from the sky gives you a completely different perspective and provides you with the chance of taking some amazing and unique photos of the concrete jungle below you.

Taste of NYC Helicopter Tour

Departure: Kearney, New Jersey  | 12 – 15 Minutes | The Taste of NYC Helicopter Tour is the most affordable helicopter flight over New York. During the 12-15 minute flight you will see the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. You can also see the famous One World Trade Center at the southern tip of Manhattan and the Empire State Building!

New York City Helicopter Tour and Luxury VIP SUV Transfer

Pickup: Your Hotel  | 15 – 30 Minutes | Are you looking for a very special helicopter flight over New York? Then check out this combination of helicopter flight and VIP transfer! You will be picked up from your hotel in a luxury SUV and driven to the downtown Manhattan heliport. You can choose from several helicopter flights – from 15 to 30 minutes.

After your helicopter tour, you will be driven back from the heliport to your hotel. It doesn’t get any better than this!

Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour

Departure: Downtown Manhattan Heliport | 18 – 20 Minutes | The Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour takes you on an aerial tour over Manhattan and its many attractions. You wont forget the view of NYC from above or the feeling of flying high above the skyscrapers any time soon. Especially for those of you who like taking photos, this is a guaranteed way to secure some amazing shots of the NYC skyline.

Helicopter Tour with Optional Doors-Off Experience

Experience a helicopter ride over the iconic landmarks of New York City, such as the Statue of Liberty and Freedom Tower. Choose a door-off experience to enjoy a unique view of the city from above.

Night Helicopter Ride NYC: City Lights Skyline Experience

Departure: Linden, New Jersey  | 25 – 30 Minutes | Have you ever seen the sights of New York City from the air at night? If not, then you should book a seat on the City Lights Skyline Experience helicopter ride NYC from Helicopter Flight Services. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows visitors to see aerial views of Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and much more while they are lit up at night!

Grand Island Helicopter Flight

Departure: Downtown Manhattan Heliport | 25 – 30 Minutes | Enjoy seeing NYC from a bird’s-eye view for 30 exciting minutes with the Grand Island Helicopter Flight. You will see all the main NYC attractions from above allowing you to take some amazingly unique pictures of some of NYC’s most famous sights. You will fly over everything from the Statue of Liberty, The One World Trade Center and the Yankees Stadium to the New York Harbor and Central Park! This is undoubtedly an experience you will not want to miss out on.

New York Helicopter Tour: Manhattan Highlights

Departure: Downtown Manhattan Heliport | 12 – 15 Minutes | For a unique and exciting experience, look no further! A helicopter ride over Manhattan is one of the things that we highly recommend doing when you visit NYC. From up in the air the sense of scale you get is second to none, making this city even more impressive than it already is. Flying along the Hudson River this helicopter tour will give you a great view of Manhattan, its main attractions and the surrounding boroughs.

Helicopter Tour: Manhattan, Brooklyn and Staten Island

Departure: Downtown Manhattan Heliport | 25 – 30 Minutes | No trip to New York is complete without a helicopter ride over NYC. With everything the Big Apple has to offer, it can be difficult seeing all the mighty rivers, iconic sights, and historical landmarks in one trip. However, the easiest way to accomplish this is by boarding a state-of-the-art helicopter and enjoying the ride. The Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Staten Island helicopter ride NYC by Helicopter Flight Services is one of the most comprehensive tours available. You’ll see sights such as the Chrysler Building, Statue of Liberty, General Grant National Memorial, and so much more.

Ultimate Manhattan Sightseeing Helicopter Flight

Departure: Downtown Manhattan Heliport | 25 – 30 Minutes | New York is one of the best cities for tourism and sightseeing. However, it’s also a bustling city, so rather than stand in line to see the famed sights, it’s much easier to book a helicopter ride over NYC. Doing so allows you to see the gorgeous skyline and iconic views from the air.

The Ultimate Manhattan Sightseeing helicopter tour provided by Helicopter Flight Services is one with which you can’t go wrong.

New York Helicopter Tour: City Skyline Experience

Departure: Linden, New Jersey  | 25 – 30 Minutes | The City Skyline Experience is a helicopter ride over NYC that provides aerial views of Manhattan’s skyline and other historical sights. Other travelers may be present with this shared ride experience, but that doesn’t take away from the exceptional views and still provides an excellent opportunity for marvelous photos.

Find the perfect Helicopter Flight over NYC in no time!

Not quite sure which of the many helicopter flights over New York are the best for you? With my helicopter flight advisor this can be done very quickly! Try it out right now by clicking on the “Let’s start”-button below! 👇👇👇

After only 2 questions we will present you the helicopter flights that suits you best. There are over 10 different helicopter tours to choose from, so you’ll definitely find one that you’ll enjoy.

Question #1 Where do you want to start the helicopter tour?

Manhattan (so that the way to the heliport is short)

New Jersey is fine!

I am quite flexible there!

Question #2 What budget do you plan per person?

Less than $250.

More than $250, it should be a once in a lifetime experience!

The Best Private Helicopter Rides

Even the “regular” helicopter flights over NYC are really beautiful and guaranteed to give you many goosebumps moments. But if you are looking for a romantic helicopter flight for two and want it to be something really special, the private helicopter flights over New York City are perfect!

Here you can find the best private helicopter tours in NYC:

The best helicopter ride from jfk to nyc (and all other nyc airports).

Something really luxurious is the combination of airport transfer and sightseeing flight – there are several providers that will take you by helicopter from the airports around New York City to Manhattan. Starting your New York vacation couldn’t be better!

Here you can find the best New York Helicopter Airport Transfers:

To get a better idea of the different helicopter routes, you can take a look at the map below. It shows you which main attractions you will be able to see and therefore may help to determine which the best helicopter tour length for you. You can choose from short, medium, and long helicopter tour in NYC.

Our Favorite: The Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour

For us, the best helicopter tour in NYC is the Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour. Why? See it for yourself:

How much is a helicopter flight in New York?

Prices for helicopter flights in New York vary, depending on the length of the tour. Typically, you can expect to pay between $155 and $300.

Where do helicopter flights in New York leave from?

New York City has four main providers of helicopter rides. You can recognize them by their different colors:  The red ones are New York Helicopter & Liberty Helicopter and the black helicopters are owned by Zip Aviation. Each of them has the same departure location (Downtown Manhattan Heliport) however fly slightly different routes over the city.

How early do I need to arrive before my helicopter flight over New York?

Please be at the Heliport 45 minutes before your scheduled departure time for a compulsory safety induction, unless you’re otherwise instructed.

Can I change the date of my helicopter ride?

It is entirely possible that your travel plans for New York change last minute. Don’t worry, this is not a problem as the date and time of your helicopter tour can be canceled up to 72 hours prior to departure!

Book your tickets 1 – 2 weeks in advance – you will have a fairly accurate weather forecast by then!

How many people fit into a helicopter?

Depending on the helicopter, 4 – 6 people will be on one flight.

Is there a weight limit for helicopter flights in New York?

No. However, all passengers weighing over 300lbs (136kg) may need to pay for an extra seat depending on the flight. This can be paid to the provider at check-in.

Can I choose my seat?

Due to the need for the weight on both sides of the helicopter to be balanced, you will not be able to pick your seats. However, you can voice your seating preferences during the process and the staff will try to accommodate your wishes with this in mind.

What can I not take on board of a helicopter flight?

Only items that can be kept on your person are allowed on board, such as a cell phone, camera, or sunglasses. Any larger items (e.g. water bottles or oversized cameras that can block the view) need to be left at the heliport. Should you need to leave things behind, there are small lockers available for ($2).

What do I need to bring?

Please make sure to bring your booking confirmation as well as a valid photo ID for every passenger. This also includes children! Also, don’t forget your camera or phone to capture some moments of this incredible experience!

Is there anything that is not included in the helicopter ticket price?

A security fee of $40 per person is included in most of the ticket prices. The fee is mandated by the heliport and payment is required upon check-in. Also not included are the tip (optional), as well as hotel transfers.

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

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7 Best Helicopter Rides in NYC in 2024 w/ Prices

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Taking a helicopter ride over NYC was one of the best experiences I had in the Big Apple. We decided to take this doors-off helicopter tour , and it didn’t disappoint! Of course, there are several other amazing helicopter tours in New York , some of them departing from Manhattan, so you can find an option that fits your preferences and budget.

If you’re hesitant about flying over NYC , I completely understand. It’s nerve-wracking and not the cheapest activity! However, I encourage you to try it. The tour operators adhere to strict safety regulations and have plenty of experience. Plus, you’ll be able to see the city from a different viewpoint, making this one of the coolest things to do in NYC .

In this guide, I’ll share the 7 best heli-rides, as well as the different departure points, highlights, and New York helicopter tour prices . By the end of this article, I’m sure you’ll be eager to take to the skies!

1. Manhattan Island helicopter tour , the best cheap helicopter ride in NYC

First, if you’re looking for a quick and cheap helicopter ride in NYC , then this flight over Manhattan is the perfect option. You can choose the duration of your tour (12-15 minutes, 17-20 minutes, or 25-30 minutes), although the price varies depending on your choice. Anyway, they all are short enough to fit on a 3-day NYC itinerary .

During this NYC heli-ride , you’ll enjoy in-flight narration so you can easily identify the different attractions in Manhattan from above. You can also choose to focus your ride specifically on Manhattan or to zoom out and see the entire city. The aircraft has huge windows, which makes sightseeing a breeze.

Soaring iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Central Park is quite the experience and something you’ll never forget. Plus, the different tour options make this an appealing choice for all kinds of travelers and budgets. Another nice thing about this New York City helicopter tour is that it departs from Lower Manhattan, so if you want a quick and convenient flight, I highly recommend it.

• Departs from : Downtown Heliport at Pier 6, Manhattan
• Duration : 15-30 minutes
• Price from : $239 per person
• Highlights : Cheapest helicopter flight over Manhattan

2. Nighttime flight , the best night helicopter tour in NYC

You should also consider taking an NYC helicopter tour at night , such as this one . It’s another affordable helicopter ride in New York City and the perfect choice if you want to see the Big Apple after dark.

Keep in mind that this tour departs from Linden Airport in New Jersey, which is about a 45-minute drive from NYC. Free parking is available on-site, and you can easily reach the airport via New York’s public transportation if you don’t have a car.

This New York City helicopter tour lasts 25 minutes and flies over the Big Apple’s most recognizable attractions, as well as its rivers and bridges. You’ll see the evening traffic filtering between the city skyscrapers, as well as the glittering facades of the Chrysler Building, the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and more.

In addition to Manhattan, you’ll soar over the Bronx, then circle back, flying over the Statue of Liberty before returning to New Jersey. Without a doubt, this is one of the best things to do in NYC at night , especially with friends or your partner.

• Departs from : Linden, New Jersey
• Duration : 25 minutes
• Price from : $274 per person
• Highlights : Helicopter flight over Manhattan at night

3. Doors-off experience , the best sightseeing helicopter tour in New York City

During one of our visits to the Big Apple, we decided to experience New York by helicopter . We chose this doors-off helicopter tour , and I highly recommend it if you’re a fan of photography like us! This NYC helicopter tour goes over Liberty and Ellis Islands, Lower Manhattan’s Battery Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, One World Observatory , and more.

This exhilarating flight was the perfect opportunity to capture unique aerial photos of Manhattan. Flying in a doors-off helicopter over NYC gave us the best vantage point and unobstructed views. It was one of the most thrilling things we did during our trip, and it’s easily one of the best New York City tours you can take.

While riding in a helicopter with no doors may sound scary, you’re securely buckled in the entire time. The pilot is super experienced, and the company follows strict safety protocols, so you have nothing to worry about.

• Departs from : Kearny, New Jersey
• Duration : 16-30 minutes
• Price from : $365 per person
• Highlights : Doors-off helicopter flight over Manhattan

4. Romantic flight package , a romantic couples helicopter ride in NYC

If you’re visiting the city with your partner and you want to plan something special, consider this couple’s flight . This private NYC helicopter tour for 2 is the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or share an unforgettable moment together.

During the tour, you’ll enjoy beautiful aerial views of the Big Apple’s most famous landmarks. See the full expanse of Central Park, get a bird’s-eye view of Yankee Stadium, glimpse the top of the Empire State Building, and more. Hands down, this  helicopter ride in NYC is one of the best couple’s activities in New York City .

Keep in mind that this flight departs from the Westchester County Airport in White Plains, NY, about 45 minutes north of Manhattan. You can get there via rental car or public transit, or set up a transfer from your hotel, although this will increase the cost of the tour. Also, the price for this NYC helicopter tour is per couple, not per person.

You can also choose to fly during the day, at sunset, or at night. I prefer the sunset option since you can view the city during golden hour and see the nightlife start to rev up.

• Departs from : White Plains, New York
• Duration : 30-45 minutes
• Price from : $800 (per couple)
• Highlights : Private helicopter flight over Manhattan for 2

5. Group flight , the best private helicopter tour in NYC for friends or family

If you’re visiting the Big Apple with friends or family, consider upgrading your visit with this group flight . This is the best private helicopter tour in NYC and accommodates up to 6 people, so it’s ideal for groups.

The tour departs from Westchester County Airport and offers the option to set up a transfer from your hotel for an extra fee. Also, the price of this New York helicopter tour is per group of 6, so if you split the cost, it’s a great deal.

During the flight, you’ll get awesome views of Central Park, the Empire State Building , and several different waterways and bridges. In addition to Manhattan, you’ll see the Bronx and Brooklyn from above. Daytime, sunset, and night flights are available, so if you’re looking for a Manhattan helicopter tour to do with friends, I highly recommend this one.

• Price from : $1,550 (per group of 6)
• Highlights : Private helicopter flight over Manhattan for 6

6. Helicopter proposal over the city , the ultimate couples’ heli ride in NYC

For something truly special, this romantic helicopter proposal takes the cake. It’s the ultimate couple’s helicopter ride in NYC and will help you pop the question in style!

You’ll get to collaborate with the pilot and an engagement photographer, who will be ready to snap photos after your flight. This NYC helicopter tour package includes a private transfer from your Manhattan hotel to Westchester County Airport, where you’ll board a private chopper.

During this romantic helicopter ride over NYC , you’ll enjoy some of the best views in New York City . As the aircraft descends, your partner will see an illuminated “Marry Me” sign. The tour also includes a bouquet of roses and champagne; just don’t forget the ring!

• Price from : $3,400 (per couple)
• Highlights : Private helicopter flight over Manhattan, proposal illuminated “Marry Me” sign, roses, champagne, professional photographer

7. Flying lesson , the most unique helicopter tour in New York City

The last helicopter experience in New York that I recommend is this flying lesson . You’ll receive on-the-ground instruction from an expert pilot, then climb into the cockpit and put your new skills to the test.

You’ll learn about the technology and physics behind flying a New York helicopter , as well as proper safety protocols and how to use the control panel. This New York heli-tour includes 30 minutes of flight time, during which your pilot guide will hand over the controls to you so you can maneuver the aircraft.

Be aware that this tour departs from Westchester County Airport in White Plains, New York, near the border with Connecticut. So, while you won’t fly directly over NYC, you’ll still enjoy spectacular views, not to mention have an exciting, once-in-a-lifetime ride.

• Duration : 1-1.5 hours (30-minute flight)
• Price from : $560 per person
• Highlights : Flying lesson in a Robinson R44 helicopter over Westchester County

New York helicopter tour prices

Now that you’ve read about the best helicopter tours in NYC , here is a comparison chart with each option’s duration, price, departure point, and highlights.

Remember, the price of a New York City helicopter tour depends on various factors, such as the duration of the flight and special features like a doors-off experience or private ride.

Best time for a helicopter tour in New York City

In addition to the price of a New York City helicopter tour , you should also consider the time. For example, if you want to take aerial photos, then the morning is the best time for a helicopter tour in NYC .

If you’re looking for something more romantic, you can’t go wrong with a sunset helicopter tour over NYC . The beautiful light of golden hour gives the entire city a radiant glow, so it’s my favorite time to fly over the city.

You’ll also love taking an NYC helicopter tour at night , as this is when the Big Apple really comes alive. You’ll still be able to identify the popular NY landmarks, but it’s a very unique experience.

Tips for choosing an NYC helicopter ride

Now that you know the best helicopter tours in New York , here are some tips to help you choose the perfect fit. Keep these in mind as you plan your ideal helicopter ride in NY .

• Double-check the departure point for the tour since most heliports are located outside of NYC.
• Wear comfortable clothes, sneakers, and a jacket. The sun is more intense in a New York helicopter , so don’t forget to wear sunscreen and sunglasses. Also, don’t forget your camera!
• Pay attention to the check-in time, which is different from the departure time . You should arrive early so you can go over the safety instructions and flight procedures.
• Consider any extra fees , such as tips for the pilot and fuel surcharges.
• Keep in mind that doors-off flights cost more. Also, sunset helicopter tours in NYC are very popular, so they tend to be more expensive and fill up quickly.

My experience flying over New York by helicopter

During one of our trips to New York, we decided to try a Manhattan sightseeing helicopter tour . This doors-off flight piqued our interest, and it ended up being one of the coolest things we did during our trip.

This NYC helicopter experience was a photographer’s dream, allowing us to take some of the best pictures of New York from above. Plus, since we were flying over New York in a doors-off chopper, I felt like I was floating above the city. It was quite an adrenaline rush, but I felt safe the entire time because we were securely strapped in, and the pilot and crew went over all the safety protocols before we boarded the aircraft.

Our New York City helicopter tour lasted about 20 minutes, and I thought it was well-priced for such a breathtaking experience. We flew over New York Harbor and saw the full scope of Manhattan while our guide pointed out important landmarks. Seeing huge skyscrapers like the Empire State Building and One World Observatory from above was awesome and provided a unique viewpoint that we wouldn’t get any other way.

I also saw just how large Central Park is, and I captured incredible views of Battery Park, the waterfront, and Liberty and Ellis Islands. Seeing the different NYC bridges connecting to Manhattan all at once from above was an awe-inspiring experience, too.

If you’re still on the fence after reading my New York helicopter review , I say go for it! You won’t regret it!

FAQs – New York City helicopter tours

To wrap up, here are some common questions about NYC helicopter tours :

What is the best NYC helicopter tour?

The best helicopter ride in New York depends on what you want to see, but any of the tours in this guide are great options. We loved the tour we took , but if you’re looking for something cheaper, I recommend this flight .

Are NYC helicopter tours worth it?

Taking an NYC helicopter tour is absolutely worth it. There is nothing like seeing The City That Never Sleeps from above, and the photo opportunities are out of this world!

How much does a helicopter tour cost in NYC?

The price of a New York helicopter tour depends on several factors, such as the duration, the number of passengers, and any extra features. That said, you can find tours starting at around $250/person.

When is the best time for a helicopter tour in NYC?

This also depends on your preferences. If you’re interested in getting great photos, take a morning helicopter ride in NYC . For something romantic, consider a sunset helicopter tour in NYC or a night flight to see the sparkling city lights.

What should I wear for an NYC helicopter tour?

It can get chilly in a New York helicopter , so wear lightweight layers. Along with a jacket, you’ll want to wear sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the bright sun.

How many people can fit in a helicopter ride in NYC?

In most helicopters, up to 6 people can board the aircraft, plus the pilot.

How long does a helicopter ride in NYC last?

A helicopter ride over NYC can be as short as 12 minutes or up to 45 minutes. Typically, these tours last 15-30 minutes.

How high do helicopters fly over NYC?

NYC helicopter tours fly 500 to 1,000 feet above the city.

Where do NYC helicopter tours depart from?

Some helicopter rides in NY depart from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport in Lower Manhattan. Others depart from outside the city, either from the Linden Airport in New Jersey or the Westchester County Airport in New York.

That’s it from me! Hopefully, you feel better prepared for your NY helicopter tour . If you still have questions about flying over New York , or you want to share your experience, leave me a comment below. I’d be happy to help.

Enjoy your helicopter ride in New York !

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The best helicopter tours in NYC

Get an exhilarating view of the city's stunning skyline aboard one of the best helicopter tours NYC has to offer

For the ultimate panoramic view of this incredible city's iconic skyline, you'll probably want to book yourself on to one of New York’s best helicopter tours. Because what could be better than gazing out across the coolest city in the world? Of course, vistas aren’t in short supply in this town - and you can always marvel at the cityscape from one of the city’s best  rooftop bars - but you’ll need to get a little bit higher for that picture-perfect wide-angle of the best  New York attractions ,  from the Empire State Building to  Central Park . Whether you want to jump on a quick 20-minute flight or take it all in over two whole hours, our list of the best helicopter tours in NYC has the perfect chopper for you. Time to take to the skies, people! 

This article includes affiliate links.These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

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Best NYC helicopter tours

1.  vip night helicopter flight and statue of liberty cruise.

It's no surprise that in the city that never sleeps, the best helicopter ride takes place after dark. Head down to South Street Seaport and climb aboard a luxury chopper for a flight around a dozen sights and landmarks, including Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, the  Chrysler Building and  the Empire State Building. After you’ve landed, finish off the night in style with a 45-minute guided cruise along the New York harbor, complete with a Champagne toast in front of Lady Liberty. How fancy!

2.  Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York

This budget-friendly whistlestop tour is perfect for those visiting New York for the first time. In just 15 minutes, you can get up close to loads of major attractions. Flights depart daily from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport, taking passengers  all the way to the George Washington Bridg via t he Empire State, Woolworth, Chrysler, Met Life, and World Financial buildings. Headphones are provided so you can hear commentary from your pilot while taking in those spectacular, Instagram-perfect views.

3.  Private Fall Helicopter Tour of the Hudson Valley

You'll  fall  in love with the city after this private tour of Hudson Valley. Fly above the cascade of rich reds, warm oranges, and golden yellows, synonymous with the season. This NYC helicopter tour will take you on a journey showcasing the beauty of New England, including the Hudson River, Bear Mountain, and Harriman State Park. The experienced pilots will tell you all about the gorgeous views, so relax, take in the sights and experience the world from a different height. 

4.  New York Helicopter Flight: Manhattan Helicopter Tour

This 15 to 20-minute, ultimate sightseer tour gives passengers the chance to take in killer views of the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, and Madison Square Garden, among other landmarks. You'll be taking off from the Downtown Heliport before soaring over iconic sights you've only seen in the movies. The longer tour will take you to bonus monuments like the impressive Yankee Stadium.

5.  New York Helicopter Tour: Manhattan, Brooklyn and Staten Island

From Coney Island to the New Jersey Palisades to  Grant’s Tomb , this far-ranging helicopter tour lets you see it all. Your flight gets going with the iconic landmarks of lower Manhattan: the Freedom Tower, the Statue of Liberty, the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building. Next, the flight climbs all the way to the very top of the borough for incredible views of Columbia University, Harlem and the Yankee Stadium. The trip back heads south over the Verrazano Bridge for views of Staten Island and even a glimpse of the roller coasters at Luna Park.

6.  Manhattan Island All-Inclusive Helicopter Tour

Whatever you do, don’t forget your camera on this tour. And no, your smartphone probably won't do these views justice. City Skyline Experience choppers zoom north along the East River, cut across Central Park, then fly down the Hudson River for the ultimate panoramic look at Gotham’s skyline. Along the way, the pilot points out all the key NYC attractions such as the Empire State Building and the Brooklyn Bridge.

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NYC Departures

Experience the Big Apple like never before with a HeliNY New York City helicopter tour! The most exciting way to view all of New York’s major landmarks from the Statue of Liberty to Central Park and everything in between! Hop aboard and let us show you New York City from a whole new perspective!

FIND THE RIGHT TOUR

HeliNY offers three amazing New York City helicopter tours that showcase our great city. If you’re not sure which tour is best for you then check out the chart below to compare our routes.

• Statue of Liberty
• Ellis Island
• Brooklyn Bridge
• Governor’s Island
• One World Trade Center
• Billionaires Row
• Madison Square Garden
• Chrysler Building
• Empire State Building
• Little Island
• Chelsea Piers
• The High Line
• Hudson Yards
• Times Square
• The Intrepid
• Central Park

Starting at:

$259 Per Seat

+$40 facility fee and fuel surcharge per seat

• Columbia University
• Yankee Stadium
• The Palisades
• George Washington Bridge
• The Met Cloisters
• Tip of Manhattan

$289 Per Seat

• Verrazzano Bridge
• Coney Island

$389 Per Seat

The heliny difference, safety first.

Safety is paramount! Flying Bell407 helicopters that include the state-of-the-art TCAS system (Traffic Collision Avoidance System) maintained by our in-house team of factory certified technicians! On site we ensure you receive a safety briefing and are always escorted to your aircraft by our trained ground crew.

EXPERIENCED PILOTS

HeliNY conducts regular recurring training to ensure our pilots are ready to take you on a journey you will never forget. Our pilots come to HeliNY with at least 1,000 flight hours, their training ensures they know the Bell407 aircraft inside and out, not to mention some facts about NYC they can share with you on your tour.

5 STAR SERVICE

Our service is how we stand out! We understand that your HeliNY experience begins the first time you contact us! From our reservations, ground crew and pilots, we strive to ensure you have a stress free and exciting experience! Our attention to customer satisfaction is why we’re rated 5 stars on TripAdvisor!

OUR DEPARTURE LOCATION

GETTING HERE From Times Square it takes about 30 minutes to reach the Heliport by subway or taxi. Keep in mind that any travel after 4pm will take longer due to commuter traffic.

We are a 5 minute walk from the South Ferry subway station; this is the last stop on the 1 train Downtown. If you are using Google Maps or Apple Maps, enter “Downtown Manhattan Heliport” as the address. If you are using a GPS device sometimes our address isn’t recognized, please use 6 East River Piers, New York, 10004.

If you are driving, there is no parking at the heliport but there is a parking garage at the intersection of South Street & Whitehall Street, South St & Old Slip Rd or at the South Street Seaport (Pier 17).

Address Downtown Manhattan Heliport 6 East River Piers, New York, NY 10004

LOOKING FOR TOURS FROM NEW JERSEY?

Want to see when New York really sparkles or top your weekend off with a Sunday trip around NYC? Our location in Linden, NJ offers the same great NYC helicopter tour views, is easily accessible, and has departure times not available from Manhattan!

ABOUT OUR TOURS

Our New York City helicopter tours take you far above the hustle and bustle of the streets below! Let us provide you with a brand new perspective of New York City’s iconic landmarks, including the Empire State Building, the One World Trade Center, and Central Park!

Your New York City helicopter tour can take you as far north as the George Washington Bridge and south to the Verrazzano Bridge showing you all the sights in between! Delight in flying by New York’s historic landmarks including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Chrysler Building, and the over 150-year-old Brooklyn Bridge. No matter your sightseeing goals, a New York City helicopter tour is a must-have to make any visit memorable.

Still Have Questions?

Check out our Frequently Asked Questions . Email us at [email protected] , call us at (212)-355-0801 , or start a chat

GET IN TOUCH

CUSTOMER SERVICE:

1 (212) 355-0801

Monday: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm

Tuesday – Wednesday: 8:00 am – 7:00pm

Thursday – Sunday: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm

1 (212) 248-2016

24/7, please leave a voicemail

Downtown Manhattan Heliport

6 East River Piers,

New York, NY 10004

Linden Municipal Airport

1101 W Edgar Rd,

Linden, NJ 07036

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Manhattan Helicopters

Breathtaking Helicopter Tours over New York City

Classic Manhattan Helicopter Tour

Take a flight that you will remember for a lifetime! Departing from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport, the Classic Manhattan Tour begins at the majestic the Statue of Liberty, followed by the world-famous Manhattan Skyline.

• Calendar Monday-Saturday 9:30am-6:30pm
• Clock 12-15 Minutes

Choose A NYC Helicopter Tour

• Clock 18-20 Minutes

Deluxe Manhattan Helicopter Tour

An exciting and comprehensive helicopter tour of New York City with breathtaking views and excellent photo opportunities! This extended version of the Classic Tour will treat you to the best views of New York City including the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building and Central park.

• 4 Passenger Minimum
• Calendar 4 Passenger Minimum , Monday-Saturday 9:30am-6:30pm
• Clock 25-30 Minutes

VIP Manhattan Helicopter Tour

All aboard for the most spectacular and unforgettable experience of your New York visit! With the extended route and approximately 30-minute duration, you’ll be sure to feel like a VIP on the VIP Tour!

Why Choose Manhattan Helicopters?

There is nothing more important to us than ensuring your safety.

In addition to luxury seating for ultimate comfort , our helicopters are equipped with oversized window for prime visibility.

We have the most modern fleet in the industry. We will make you feel like a VIP.

We are proud to offer tours in nine languages, including English, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, German, Japanese, Chinese, and Russian.

Hear Why Sightseers Love Us on TripAdvisor

On our holiday to New York City it was on our list to have a helicopter ride! What a fabulous experience! I was very fortunate to sit with the pilot, Andrew from Dublin (I am from Wales so it was a great connection instantly), and he gave me one of the best life experiences. It was amazing!! Between the Statue of Liberty, the NYC skyline, and the bridges, I can’t recommend it enough!

Loved every minute of this trip. It is well worth the money spent. A big thank you to the pilot - he looked after us, explaining everything whilst taking us to the heliport. The waiting area was clean and the guys were friendly. He was very friendly and chatty, wanting to know where everyone came from. I really recommend this trip if you want an unforgettable experience.

I spent a few days in New York City with my girlfriend and we did a lot of things, but without a doubt, the highlight of our trip was Manhattan Helicopters. The service was so efficient that we were flying in no time, but the best part was the friendliness of the place, especially from Santiago and Osvaldo Vigo. Those two gentlemen were amazing!! Highly recommend the tour to anybody.

I booked the VIP tour, which included 25 minutes of helicopter tour. As soon as I arrived, they got me on the flight with my 8-year-old daughter, and everything was in order and done in a very professional manner. The ride was awesome, as we got the front row, right next to the pilot so we could see the panoramic view, which was a great experience.

🚁 The 5 Best NYC Helicopter Tours [2024 Reviews]

A unique opportunity to see the most exciting city in the world from above.

The Big Apple is arguably the beating heart and soul of the United States. Viewing New York City from the air is one of the most unique and striking ways to see all of this famous city’s most iconic sites.

NYC helicopter tours are exclusive, exciting, and offer incredibly rewarding views of many of the city’s highlights. Whether you want to surprise a loved one or splurge on the tour of a lifetime, these are the best helicopter tours of NYC available.

Best New York City Helicopter Tours

Quick answer: the 5 best rated nyc helicopter tours for 2022.

• New York City / Manhattan Island Helicopter Tour
• New York City Private Helicopter Tour for Couples
• New York City Manhattan Helicopter Tour
• New York City Helicopter Tour with Narration
• New York Helicopter Tour with Optional Doors-Off Experience

Best NYC Helicopter Tour Reviews

We’ve reviewed five of the top helicopter tours of NYC and highlighted what makes them stand out . Pick the tour that’s best suited for the type of experience you want to have in New York City.

#1. New York City / Manhattan Island Helicopter Tour

• Departure Point: Downtown Manhattan Heliport
• Departure Time: Every 30 minutes between 9am – 6:30pm, Monday – Saturday
• Duration: 15-30 minutes
• Includes: Helicopter flight, n oise-canceling Bose headsets , pilot commentary, photos (available for purchase)

You’ll lift off from downtown Manhattan and start by viewing some of New York City’s most famous buildings including the World Financial Center, Empire State, Chrysler, Woolworth, and Met Life.

Next, you will zoom over the Hudson River to get a bird’s eye view of Ellis Island, the site where over 20 million immigrants were processed during its 60 years in operation. Coming face to face with one of the most famous landmarks in the world on Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, is a natural highlight.

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You’ll then continue up the Hudson River during which time you’ll be treated to the most stunning views of the Manhattan skyline from a perspective that very few ever experience.

The tour continues until the George Washington Bridge before turning back towards your starting point. Exhilarating and efficient, this NYC helicopter tour is recommended for those who want to see and experience the most in the shortest amount of time.

It’s also easier on the wallet than some of the other tours mentioned. This is a cheap helicopter tour of NYC that you can have at a reasonable price without sacrificing any of the highlights.

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, #2. new york city private helicopter tour for couples.

• Departure Point: 67 Tower Road, Harrison, NY
• Departure Time: 10am and 5:30pm. Check in is 30 minutes prior to departure time.
• Duration : 30-45-minutes
• Includes: Private couples only helicopter tour, pilot commentary

This private tour kicks off from Manhattan’s Downtown Heliport. The helicopter tour allows for exclusive views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. You’ll also be treated to dazzling views of the entire Manhattan city skyline.

The tour pilot will provide commentary the entire time as you view other famous sights like the Chrysler Building, World Financial Center, Chelsea Piers, Time Warner Center, and Ground Zero as you zoom up and down the Hudson River.

The sprawling view even reaches as far as New Jersey attractions such as Goldman Sachs Tower, Colgate Clock, and Liberty State Park.

You’ll be returned to the base following the helicopter tour and then be swept away on a 1-hour boat cruise through New York City Harbor with a refreshing drink in hand.

Toast to the night out on the town that you’ll never forget with a glass of complimentary Champagne before turning back and concluding the tour.

This is the perfect tour makes a perfect surprise for a loved one on a special occasion. This is one helicopter tour for two that has the simultaneous potential for both thrill and romance!

#3. New York City Manhattan Helicopter Tour

• Departure Time: every 30 minutes between 9am – 6:30pm, Monday – Saturday
• Duration: 15-20 minutes
• Includes: Helicopter tour, local taxes, headphones, pilot commentary

See all of New York City’s most famous sights in just 15 minutes or less with the Manhattan Sky Tour. The first photo opportunity comes just after lift off as the helicopter swoops through the heart of the New York Harbor and right past Governor’s Island.

This island was once a military base that’s now been transformed into New Yorkers’ favorite picnic spot outside the city. The tour then crosses the Hudson River to show you Ellis Island and the world-recognizable Statue of Liberty up close and personal.

Ground Zero is next and while it’s a somber sight to see, it remains an incredibly relevant part of NYC history. The tour takes a turn after viewing the USS Intrepid, a WWII aircraft carrier, and continues along the Hudson River.

It’s here that you’ll be privy to NYC’s famous skyline with close up views of the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and the Met Life Building.

Other landmarks you’ll get to tick off the Bucket List include an inflight view of Battery Park, the New York Stock Exchange, and the Federal Reserve Bank. See more from the sky in 15 minutes than you could in several days touring New York City on the ground!

This tour is recommended for those who appreciate a peek into the past as you’ll get to see several historically significant sites!

#4. New York City Helicopter Tour with Narration

• Departure Time: every 30 minutes between 9am – 4:30pm, Monday – Saturday
• Duration: 30 minutes
• Includes: Helicopter tour, audio guide , headphones

The tour starts off at the Downtown Manhattan Heliport and first flies over Governor’s Island. The tour then soars over the Hudson River towards Ellis Island where you’ll get the best view in the house of the Statue of Liberty without battling the hoards of people below.

The photo opportunities here are once in a lifetime! Ground Zero, the infamous site where the World Trade Center twin towers once stood, is next before soaring up the Hudson to check out New York’s most striking buildings.

The Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building are two of the city’s most iconic landmarks and ones you’ll get to see in way most never dream of. Your tour also allows for views of Central Park, the George Washington Bridge, and the bustling Time Square, making it one of the best helicopter tours of NYC.

Lastly, you’ll also catch a glimpse of the USS Intrepid, the WWI aircraft carrier. This tour is perfect for those who desire a longer flight time and are interested in seeing a few more NYC sites.

#5. New York Helicopter Tour with Optional Doors-Off Experience

• Departure Point:  78 John Miller Way, Kearny, NJ
• Departure Time: Every 30 minutes between 9am-4:30pm, Monday – Saturday
• Duration: 16 minutes
• Includes: Helicopter tour, local taxes, pilot commentary

This tour covers all the highlights mentioned above in addition to a lot of little extras. With nearly the twice the time in the sky as the other tours, it’s only logical that you’d see twice as much. The start of the tour takes you past Governor’s Island, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty.

Then you’ll take a turn up the Hudson to admire New York City’s Wall Street. You’ll also get to enjoy Chinatown, Little Italy, and Time Square without having to contend with the crowds. The helicopter tour cruises over Central Park, one of the city’s main fixtures. Now, it’s onto the extra perks.

Your helicopter tour will swoop around the bases at Yankee Stadium. Let the Manhattan skyline memorize you with stunning views of the Empire State, Chrysler, and Met Life building before changing gears and flying over the five boroughs of NYC; Bronx, Brooklyn, Staten Island, Queens, and of course, Manhattan.

As you conclude the tour, your helicopter will finish by boasting unforgettable views of the United Nations building and South Street Seaport. The grand finale is a one last look at Ellis Island and the Statute of Liberty before returning to the heliport.

Whether you’re a first time visitor or a seasoned NYC veteran, this tour will not disappoint. Visitors should take this tour if they’re looking for the most high-class, comprehensive tour of NYC and want to see the most possible sites in one trip.

Traveler’s Guide to New York City

• Airport and Entry
• Planning Tips
• Nightlife and Entertainment
• Getting Around
• Accommodation
• Attractions

Airport and Entry:

There are three major airports in New York City: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in southern Queens, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in Newark, New Jersey, and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in northern Queens. JFK is the main international airport along with Newark. LaGuardia typically handles domestic flights although there are some exceptions.

You can access Manhattan from any one of these airports, but some are better than others. All three airports also have different transportation options that run the gamut of public transportation to private transport. It all depends on your budget and what kind of trip you have in mind.

*We used Manhattan’s Time Square as a central reference point for arrival in Manhattan.

JFK is the busiest and most crowded airport with eight terminals and over 150 gates. This is not really the most convenient airport to arrive if your final destination is Manhattan; JFK is the farthest airport at 15 miles away. If you’re trying to save money and don’t have a lot of bags to lug around, you may consider accessing Manhattan via the AirTrain and then taking the subway’s A, E, J, or Z train to your hotel. Taxis and Uber’s are available and run around $50-$60 dollars. There are also several airport shuttle companies, the happy medium in terms of convenience and pricing. Shuttles run from the airport to Manhattan every 30-60 minutes and cost around $20. Book in advance!

Newark is roughly the same distance from Manhattan as JFK (15 miles). A taxi or Uber can cost between $50-$70 dollars, making it one of the more expensive options. The AirTrain runs from Newark to the New Jersey City Transit Train which will get you to Penn Station. From Penn Station you can talk a taxi, walk, take a bus, or jump on the subway to access Manhattan. Booking an airport shuttle in advance is a good option. The price is fair for a shared ride (around $23 dollars) and will get you to Manhattan with little effort on your part.

LaGuardia is the closest airport to Manhattan and is likely your best bet at only 9 miles away. Airport shuttles from LaGuardia to Time Square are about $16. A taxi or Uber will be less than the cost of one from JFK, but the rate can fluctuate depending on how long you sit in traffic. Public transportation is available in the form of city bus. Get on the Q70 line that passes through the airport and get off at the Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave Subway Station. From here you can access the E, M, F, R and 7 other trains. This is not the quickest or easiest way, but it is the least expensive.

Planning Tips:

Try to book your flight into NYC so that you arrive outside of morning and evening rush hour times. This can heavily impact how long your commute will take from the airport to your accommodation.

Consider the season, weather, and what you’d like to do before you pack your suitcase. New York has four very pronounced seasons and the temperature and weather can change quickly. A long-sleeved pull over or light jacket is always recommended.

Reserve your helicopter tour and anything else you really have your heart set on doing in advance. NYC is one of the most popular cities in the world, and you can bet tours, trips, accommodations, and restaurants will sell out and fill up quickly. If there’s a trip you know you want to take or a restaurant you know you want to eat in, make your arrangements in advance.   

Nightlife and Entertainment:

New York City is world-famous for its nightlife and entertainment. It really is the city that never sleeps. From comedy clubs, swanky lounges, live entertainment and Broadway shows, to dive bars, organized pub crawls, jazz clubs, and night clubs, there is literally no shortage of things to do.

The World Comedy Club is a great place to go for laughs. Grab a nightcap in one of Times Squares most up-scale establishments, The Living Room Bar (located on the 7 th floor of the W New York Hotel).

The Cubby Hole in the West Village is a laid-back fusion bar with no cover charge and unique cocktails for a more casual night out. Libation is a great happy hour spot that offers a glimpse into the true life of the NYC hip hop scene. And there are plenty of adult only shows like Hunk-O-Mania, Burlesque to Broadway, and Rick’s Cabernet New York.

Getting Around:

There are many options for getting around NYC. The subway system is the most popular and cost-effective mode of transportation. Walking is also a good option as many attractions are jam packed into one place.

Taxis are more expensive, but they could be ideal if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of learning the subway system. Renting a car is really not recommended in NYC as the public transportation system is much more convenient and taxis are everywhere. Plus, you’ll have to contend with the traffic and parking nightmare!

Accommodation:

NYC has budget, mind-range, and luxury accommodations to suite everyone’s style and budget. Five-star hotels with all the amenities and excellent location include The Ritz Carlton Central Park and Intercontinental Time Square. Mid-range options include 3-star hotels and apartments.

Some recommended choices are Broadway at Time Square, Resident Inn by Marriott New York Manhattan/Central Park, Radio City Apartments and Green Holiday Apartments. Hostels are the cheapest way to stay in NYC and there are plenty of options for these, too. Check out the neighborhood YMCAs, HI NYC Hostel, and The Local Hostel.

New York City sees all four seasons. It’s advisable to visit in the spring, summer, or early fall if you plan to pack in a lot of touring. Hitting the NYC streets in a snowstorm is not as romantic as it sounds! In spring, average day and evening temperatures are around 69 F and 53 F degrees, respectively.

Spring sees more rain, so a visit closer to summer may be more ideal. Fall can be cool and crisp and extra layers are definitely needed. The average day and evening temperatures hover around 72 F and 56 F, respectively.

Summer is the most ideal time to visit NYC if you want bright sunny days, warm temperatures, and lesser chance of rain. On average, day and evening temperatures are 82 F and 68 F, respectively.

Attractions:

There is an overwhelming amount of attractions in NYC, but there are some absolute must-sees. A true NYC experience isn’t complete without admiring the lights of Time Square, visiting the historic Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty, and wandering through Central Park. No trip to NYC would be complete without taking a tour of the famous Statue of Liberty !

The MET (Metropolitan Museum of Art) should be toured along with the American Museum of Natural History and the Guggenheim – three of NYC most famous museums. Visit the Highline Park, walk the Brooklyn Bridge, and shop Fifth Avenue for all the top brands.

No matter where your interests lie, there’s something to suit every person’s desires in NYC!

Tour Guides

The New York City / Manhattan Island Helicopter Tour is our top pick for the best NYC helicopter tour with its variety of sites viewed and value

Robert Baker

Related articles, ▷ the 7 best new york city dinner cruises [2024 reviews], the 5 best nyc bus tours – [2024 reviews], top 5 best broadway shows in nyc [2024 reviews], the 5 best niagara falls tours from new york city [2024 reviews].

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NYC Helicopter Tours

Tours from only $249

+Heliport Fee

Featured NYC HELICOPTER Tours

New york city helicopter tours.

MANHATTAN HELICOPTER TOUR

(12-15 Minute Flight time)

Special $269 Pricing

+$40 Heliport fee per seat

Helicopter tour highlights include.

Ready for a helicopter adventure? Fly over the city that never sleeps and tour NYC from new heights. Book a helicopter tour and explore many of NYC’s famous and historic attractions such as:

• Statue of Liberty
• Ellis Island
• One World Trade Center
• Chrysler Building
• Empire State Building
• Chelsea Piers
• Times Square
• The Intrepid
• Central Park

See classic Manhattan in a helicopter tour like never before.

BIG APPLE HELICOPTER TOUR

(17-20 Minute Flight time)

Special $294 Pricing

Fly over New York City on this extended helicopter tour. Whether you are a city lover, sports fan, or nature enthusiast, this tour offers views of famous NYC attractions such as: 

• Columbia University
• Grant’s Tomb
• Yankee Stadium (except on game days)
• The Palisades
• George Washington Bridge
• Northern Tip of Manhattan

Get a bird’s-eye view of the Big Apple’s most iconic landmarks on this extended NYC helicopter tour.

THE EMPIRE HELICOPTER TOUR

(25-30 Minute Flight time)

Special $394 Pricing

Explore more of NYC’s skyline on our longest helicopter tour. Book this helicopter adventure to see over 17 of New York City’s most  iconic views including: 

• Verrazzano Bridge

Take yourself on this premium NYC helicopter ride and soar above the Empire State.

Tour NYC with Liberty Helicopter

The largest and most experienced helicopter tour service in the Northeast, Liberty, The Helicopter Company offers customers the opportunity to see New York City and the surrounding area in a whole new way – from the sky!

Offering exhilarating Manhattan helicopter tours since 1990, Liberty, The Helicopter Company delivers unparalleled commitment to customer service. Unlike any other tour of NYC, you’ll see more than you ever imagined when you step into one of the choppers and get a bird’s eye view.

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Helicopter Ride NYC: 10 Best Helicopter Tours In New York

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: May 13, 2021

Taking a helicopter ride over NYC to fly high above Manhattan is certainly one of the top bucket list things to do in New York City . This HeliNY review will show you how to find the best helicopter tour in New York because there is no better way to soak up the world’s most famous urban landscape.

From the air, the extraordinary perspective of Manhattan’s famous sprawling concrete jungle is far easier to comprehend. You will see the bustling streets of Downtown and Midtown with intimidating never-ending concrete skyscrapers towering high into the sky.

In this detailed guide featuring New York helicopter tours, we are going to show you:

• Why you should consider a helicopter ride in New York
• Where to find the heliports in Manhattan and New Jersey
• Our NY helicopter ride experience with HeliNY
• 10 best NYC helicopter tours
• Photography tips for flying high above NYC

Now, let’s take a helicopter ride over New York City!

Our NYC Helicopter Ride Experience

Kristen is a New York State native and we have lived in both Upstate NY as well as New York City so you can consider us experts when it comes to the Empire State.

We took the Ultimate Tour with Heli NY in March 2021 to experience one of our bucket list activities, a New York helicopter ride.

But before booking our helicopter tour, we performed extensive research to make sure we chose the right company and experience which means we know exactly how you are feeling this very moment.

New York City isn’t a cheap place and it’s important you have all the right information in order to pick the best New York helicopter tour for your NYC itinerary .

We want our NYC helicopter guide to be helpful so instead of just listing helicopter tours in New York, we will show you a few things you need to know and things to consider before booking your tour high in the sky.

Heading to NYC?  You might like our  New York City Guidebook  to help you prepare for your trip.

Why Take A Helicopter Ride In NYC?

We will be honest and tell you that taking a luxury helicopter ride over NYC is going to consume a significant chunk of money and time out of your NY travel budget and itinerary.

But it’s also going to be one of the best and most exhilarating experiences you have on your visit to the city.

Let’s take a look at the top reasons to fly over NYC on a helicopter tour :

• If you are short on time, you can see many of NYC’s iconic buildings and landmarks in 20 minutes
• You will experience a unique perspective of the city you simply can’t get any other way
• A luxury NYC helicopter tour is perfect for a special treat or celebration
• If you have never been in a helicopter, there aren’t many better cities or places to start
• You just have to see NYC from above after watching so many movies and drone scenes of the city

Many of the helicopter tours will focus on Midtown or Lower Manhattan, but if you are interested in a specific landmark, be sure to book a helicopter tour that flies over or nearby that area.

Interested in One World Trade Center? Don’t miss our popular guide on how to visit the One World Observatory in Lower Manhattan .

Different NYC Helicopter Tour Companies

There are many helicopter tour companies in New York City and each company offers various helicopter routes with different features.

Some helicopter tours in NYC will fly directly over the buildings of Manhattan, whereas others fly along the Hudson River or Brooklyn.

Depending on how daring you feel, you can choose a New York helicopter tour with a doors off experience, but you can also opt for a doors on experience if this makes you more comfortable.

Another important factor to consider is where the helicopter ride begins. Certain helicopter tours take off and land in Manhattan, but others can only fly from New Jersey.

The length of tour will also depend on price so if this is a once in a lifetime experience you want to splurge on, you can select a longer helicopter ride in New York City to maximize your experience.

Where Are The Heliports In New York City?

You can choose a helicopter ride over NYC departing from either New Jersey or downtown Manhattan. Depending on where you have based yourself in NYC, one option may work better than the other.

When booking your NYC hotel , the likelihood is you’ll be staying somewhere around Central Park, Midtown or Lower Manhattan if visiting the city, which means the Manhattan heliport is much easier to access.

There are 3 heliports in Manhattan (two in Midtown and one in Lower Manhattan):

• West 30th Street
• East 34th Street
• Pier 6 on the East River

Opened in 1956, the West 30th St heliport is New York City’s oldest public-use heliport and the only one on this list that is available 24 hours a day seven days a week.

With limited hours from 8:00am to 8:00pm, the East 34th St heliport next to FDR Drive often serves corporate users or charter operators. But there is a operational cap on flights this heliport can accommodate.

The downtown Manhattan heliport on Pier 6 is the only option on this list available for use by tour operators . Interestingly, this is also the only heliport in the city that can accommodate the president of the United States.

You can find the Lower Manhattan heliport near the Staten Island ferry and Governors Island ferry. This is the heliport we used for our helicopter ride with HeliNY and it’s common to see other tour operators here too.

Heliports In New Jersey

While many of the popular NYC helicopter tours fly from somewhere in Manhattan, there are a few companies who fly from New Jersey.

If your NY helicopter tour begins in New Jersey, it will likely be flying from Kearny, NY.

Use our interactive map above to familiarize yourself with Manhattan or New Jersey heliports. You can also access our popular NYC heliport map via this link here .

Where you start your helicopter ride in New York City should be an important consideration when choosing a tour.

How Much Does A New York Helicopter Ride Cost?

Since NYC helicopter rides are often booked by flight time, you can expect to pay anywhere between US $150 and $500 for a basic helicopter tour over the city .

However, if you are booking a New York helicopter tour for a special occasion such as a proposal, you can charter a private helicopter for a few thousand dollars.

The price of helicopter tours in New York also depends on what you see and which company you book with because tour companies sometimes run deals throughout the year due to competition and demand.

Just to give you a little bit more information about price, check out the current prices with HeliNY:

Departing Manhattan :

• The New Yorker Tour (12-15 minutes) – US$ 189
• The Ultimate Tour (17-20 minutes) – US$ 239
• The Deluxe Tour (25-30 minutes) – US$ 329

Departing New Jersey (Linden Airport) :

• City Skyline Experience (25-30 minutes) – US$ 244
• City Lights Experience (25-30 minutes) – US$ 244

Tips About Pricing Information

The Deluxe (Manhattan) vs Skyline (New Jersey) HeliNY tour follows a very similar route and time in the sky but the price is about $85 less when flying out of NJ.

This is because it’s far less convenient to reach Linden Airport. Booking a NYC helicopter tour out of New Jersey is a great way to save on price if you can make it work.

Keep in mind there are a few additional fees often associated with a New York helicopter tour:

• Seat, facility or booking fee – Sometimes not included in booking price
• Doors off helicopter experience – Additional fee for the instagram shoe selfie
• Fuel surcharge – Sometimes combined with the seat fee
• Popular day time charges – Extra charge to fly around sunset

Before booking your helicopter ride in NYC, it’s critical you read the fine print so you know exactly what you are getting.

These rides are expensive enough so the last thing you want is to be surprised with another large bill because you didn’t consider the add ons.

How Long Is A New York Helicopter Tour?

As mentioned above, you can choose the time vs cost package to suit your NYC travel budget, but most helicopter tours in New York last somewhere between 15 to 30 minutes .

We can tell you from experience that our flight with a suggested timeframe of 17-20 minutes could have lasted 5 minutes or an hour and we wouldn’t have known.

You will find that time in the air vanishes and before you know it you’re walking out of the heliport back into Lower Manhattan.

We think it’s more important to pick your NYC helicopter tour based on what you will see rather than time.

Have extra time in Lower Manhattan? Don’t miss our popular guide featuring the best things to do in Lower Manhattan .

Preparing For Your New York City Helicopter Ride

Most people book their NYC helicopter tour in advance to reserve a space. If you booked in advance, you will walk into the heliport having already signed a waiver via the email account you booked with.

But you don’t have to book in advance. Instead you can turn up on the day as a walk in and sign a waiver on the day. The down side to this is you might not be able to ride because there is no availability.

Each individual person riding in the helicopter has to sign a waiver, so if you booked in advance for 2 people, both of you need to sign an individual waiver.

On most NY helicopter tours, you can not bring personal belongings and these items will be placed securely in a locker at the heliport.

The only items we were allowed to bring in the helicopter during our HeliNY tour was a camera, sunglasses and cell phones. If you have a large bag, these will be left with a member of staff in the pre-flight room.

Prior to boarding the helicopter, you will be provided a life jacket in case of landing on water before watching a safety briefing on a tv monitor.

How Many People Share The Flight?

You can expect to share your helicopter ride in New York City with about 6 other passengers . Typically, there are two passengers up front with the pilot and four in the main cabin of the helicopter.

But it all depends on how busy it is during the time of your scheduled flight. You could have just one other or five others during the same flight.

If you booked a private tour, you can book for two to six people depending on the NYC helicopter package.

How Are The Seating Arrangements Determined?

Similar to a plane, the seating for a NYC helicopter ride is pre-determined according to passenger weight. This is based on efficiently distributing the total weight throughout the chopper.

You certainly don’t want to go up in a lopsided helicopter!

Most New York helicopter tours will have a maximum weight limit per passenger. For HeliNY, the max weight was 275 lbs (125kg).

Passengers who are bordering around this weight may have to wait for a flight in which a proportionate weight can balance the helicopter.

You can make a request for a specific seat but there are absolutely no obligations to put you in that seat if it may compromise the safety of passengers.

Remember, you and everyone else on the flight are inside a tiny capsule at 1500 – 2000 ft above New York!

What Is The Best Time For A NYC Helicopter Tour?

Choosing the right time of day will be more important to some than others. Here are the pros and cons to each time of day:

Early morning helicopter ride :

Pros : Quieter with clearer weather and calmer air, great for beating the rush while having the rest of the day to explore the city

Cons : Sun may be a problem depending on time

Afternoon helicopter ride :

Pros : Best time of day for photographers

Cons : Trade winds may blow in clouds later in the day and the weather is more unpredictable

Sunset helicopter ride :

Pros : One of the most romantic times to ride

Cons : Extra cost often associated with this time of day

Evening helicopter ride :

Pros : Ability to see the city illuminating from above

Cons : Most often an extra cost for this time of day, difficult to take photos due to lack of light and a moving helicopter

Tips For Choosing The Correct Time To Ride

Weather is the main factor when it comes to taking a helicopter tour in New York. Tours will not fly if the weather is bad so if you want the best chance of flying, we recommend booking early in the morning.

The hours between 1pm to 3pm are a good choice for photographers because the sun will be at its highest point in the sky. Therefore less glare will reflect from windows and you shouldn’t have to shoot directly into the sun.

We took our HeliNY helicopter tour at 2:00pm and we ended up being extremely happy with this time of day to fly over New York City.

However, since we flew in March, we took a chance by flying later in the day because weather is often unpredictable this time of year.

Keep in mind, it will also depend which way you will be flying. For example, flights over the East River and looking west over NYC are probably best completed in the morning as the sun will be at your back.

Conversely, flights over the Hudson River as you look east over NYC are best taken in late afternoon or early evening such as sunset because the sun is behind you.

How To Choose A Company You Trust

Before you book your helicopter tour in New York, we strongly recommend you check out the websites of each helicopter tour company in NYC.

Be sure to read the reviews with emphasis on the most recent customer reviews. Just because a company was great a few years ago, doesn’t mean they are the best option now.

Read the flight descriptions and FAQ’s page to understand exactly what is involved with your flight. Ensure they can offer support for any accessibility or mobility concerns if applicable.

Check social media channels and look at forums about NYC helicopter tours such as on Reddit, TripAdvisor or Quora for any companies you like to find more information.

Are New York City Helicopter Tours Worth It?

Helicopter tours aren’t cheap.

Hundreds of dollars per person for less than half an hour in the air is pretty steep. So, is it really worth spending a big chunk of your New York City travel budget?

The easy answer is yes, it is worth the money . As long as you can comfortably afford it.

Imagine taking a helicopter ride in your hometown or city, what would you see?

Now imagine seeing Central Park, the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty … and the list goes on.

If you have any intentions of taking a helicopter ride at some point, you might as well make it over an iconic place like NYC.

However, if your budget is tight and you are on the fence about blowing what you have left on a helicopter tour, we suggest you very carefully think about what you won’t be able to do in NYC as a result.

When we flew with Heli NY, it was a baking hot early spring day in New York City with a clear blue sky. The city was just coming back to life after a long, hard, covid hit Winter.

Right after eating delicious pepperoni from Underground Pizza in the Financial District (one of our top rated NYC pizza places ), we arrived a few minutes early for our scheduled 2:00 pm flight time and waited right outside the pier on a bench watching as others took off and landed.

We booked the Ultimate Tour which is the most popular HeliNY package , so we went with the general consensus.

Getting Ready With HeliNY Pre-Flight

After checking in, we watched the safety brief and putting our belongings in a locker. We also met the three other passengers who would share our HeliNY helicopter ride.

Before boarding the helicopter, HeliNY took a photograph of each group in front of a helicopter. The two of us had our photo taken and were ushered to our seats.

We both were placed on the right side of the helicopter with Mark back to back with the pilot and Kristen opposite Mark. Another couple sat in the back with us but we all had a window seat with plenty of room.

Our headsets were provided so we could listen as the pilot pointed out various landmarks along the flight path.

With nervous excitement building, our heart rates increasing and the long blades slicing through air, we were finally buckled in for our helicopter ride over NYC.

NYC Views During Our HeliNY Flight

Before we knew it, we were in the air and heading out into the East River. The helicopter banked right, gained elevation and within 30 seconds we were circling around the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island .

Quickly moving on, we had the money shot of Lower Manhattan skyline in a V shape with both East and Hudson Rivers. Unfortunately, our orientation wasn’t directly head on.

The route then traced the center of the Hudson River, passing by One World Trade Center, Empire State Building, Times Square, Edge at Hudson Yards, Midtown and Central Park .

It felt like we’d been in the air 2 minutes by the time we reached Yankee Stadium and George Washington Bridge to turn around.

On the return leg, we followed the exact same path along the Hudson, except this time couple next to us had the Manhattan view and we had the New Jersey view.

Post Flight Excitement

One more look at Lady Liberty and a left bank brought us around in line of sight for Brooklyn Bridge before landing back on the big H target along Pier 6.

Back in the heliport, we took a copy of our photograph in front of the helicopters, before picking our gear up and leaving back into the beautiful sunshine of Lower Manhattan.

What an incredible experience flying high over New York City with HeliNY!

Why We Choose HeliNY Over The Competition

Before we list the top rated helicopter tours in New York City, we want to show you why we chose HeliNY to help you make a decision about your helicopter tour of NYC.

Our top priorities were safety, cleanliness and price. We also preferred a helicopter ride departing in Manhattan as opposed to New Jersey.

Here is why we chose HeliNY over the competition :

• HeliNY has some of the best customer reviews
• We watched a video about how they were taking covid cleanliness seriously (our flight was March 2021 when NYC was still heavily affected by covid)
• HeliNY departs from Manhattan, which makes it east to visit
• Prices were extremely competitive, if not the best value for money
• HeliNY is a family friendly helicopter experience
• We hadn’t read about recent misfortunes with this particular company, whereas others had recently been in the news

When booking your tour, keep in mind Heli NY is part of the Helicopter Flight Services Company so these terms may be used interchangeably.

10 Best Helicopter Tours In New York City

Now that you know everything about a helicopter ride in NYC, it’s time to find you the perfect tour. Here are the top rated helicopter tours in New York City in no particular order:

1. Manhattan Island Helicopter Tour (HeliNY)

This closed door tour provides large floor-to-ceiling convex windows for your viewing pleasure. We like this tour because tour narration and all heliport fees are already included with photos available for purchase.

During your flight, you will see Central Park, Hudson River, Empire State Building, New York Harbor, the Intrepid Sea Air Space Museum, One World Trade Center and the iconic Statue of Liberty.

• Tour Provider : Helicopter Flight Services
• Price : From $229 / person
• Helipad: Pier 6 – Downtown / Lower Manhattan
• Tour Length : 12 – 15 min, 17 – 20 min and 25 – 30 min
• Included : Helipad fees, in-flight commentary, noise-cancelling Bose headsets, lockers available
• Need to know : $50 / person rescheduling fee, children aged 2+ must pay for their own seat
• Rating : 4.8 / 5.0

>> Book the Manhattan Island helicopter tour here .

Travel Tip : If you want the tour we described in this guide, book the 17 – 20 minute tour.

2. Manhattan Helicopter Tour

Another Manhattan featured helicopter tour, this ride provides you with stunning views of Manhattan with a 15 or 20 minute tour as it flies over the Hudson River .

During this New York helicopter tour, you will see the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, One World Trade Center, 9/11 Memorial, Brooklyn Bridge, Battery Park and so much more.

• Tour Provider : Zip Aviation
• Price : From $209 / person
• Tour Length : 15 or 20 minute tour
• Included : Pre-recorded narrated helicopter tour
• Need to know : $40 boarding free and locker rental are not included, weight limit is 300 lbs (136 kg)
• Rating : 4.7 / 5.0

>> Book the Manhattan helicopter here .

3. NYC City Lights Helicopter Tour At Night (From New Jersey)

This New York City helicopter tour originates in Linden, New Jersey for an evening flight adventure. You will begin by flying directly over Newark International Airport towards Manhattan.

As you head to the New York Harbor, you will see the Statue of Liberty, skyscrapers of the NYC skyline and the Financial District before flying along the Hudson River for more stunning views.

• Price : From $274 / person
• Helipad: Linden Airport (New Jersey)
• Tour Length : 25 mins
• Included : All heliport fees and taxes, lockers and noise-canceling Bose headsets
• Need to know : Transport from Manhattan to New Jersey not included, flights cannot be rescheduled within 24-hours of flight time

>> Book the NYC City Lights helicopter tour : Get Your Guide | Viator

4. NYC Doors-Off Helicopter Tour (From New Jersey)

This 16 minute flight will take you over the gorgeous Manhattan skyline as you fly over iconic sights including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Freedom Tower, Brooklyn Bridge and Governors Island.

For those looking for a thrill, this doors off helicopter ride will make you feel as if you are floating above the NYC skyline high above the city’s iconic skyscrapers.

• Tour Provider : Helipass NYC
• Price : From $375 / person
• Helipad: Kearny, New Jersey
• Tour Length : 16 mins
• Included : Doors-off experience (if option selected)
• Need to know : $50 registration fee / person, max weight is 309 lbs (140 kg)
• Rating : 4.4 / 5.0

>> Book the doors-off helicopter tour here .

5. The Big Apple Helicopter Tour

Fly down the Hudson River as you pass by One World Trade Center, the Financial District, Statue of Liberty and the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge that links Staten Island to Brooklyn.

As you turn around near the Yankee Stadium, you will see even more top NYC sights including Central Park, Empire State Building and the Intrepid all with live commentary.

• Tour Provider : Charm Aviation NYC
• Price : From $269 / person
• Tour Length : 17 – 20 mins
• Included : Heliport landing and facility fees
• Need to know : Souvenir photos additional charge, passengers exceeding 275 lbs (124 kg) must purchase an additional seat
• Rating : 4.5 / 5.0

>> Book the Big Apple helicopter tour here . 

6. FlyNYON Helicopter Experience

Offering both a doors off or doors on helicopter ride, FlyNYON flies over the southern tip of Manhattan and includes famous landmarks such as Statue of Liberty, Central Park and World Trade Center.

Departing in NJ, FlyNYON also offers focus helicopter flights for the 4th of July, the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade and even during the stunning fireworks on New Years Eve.

• Tour Provider : FlyNYON
• Price : From $143 / person
• Helipad: NYON Terminal in NJ
• Tour Length : 16 – 33 minutes
• Included : Use of interactive floor at NYON terminal
• Need to know : $47 booking fee not included and $70 shoe selfie seat not included

>> Book a helicopter ride with FlyNYON here .

7. Manhattan Sky Tour

This helicopter tour in NYC glides across the Hudson River as you pass by some of the most iconic landmarks in New York such as Governor’s Island, Lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty and the New York Harbor.

Book this tour to experience a state-of-the-art Bell 407 helicopter ride and choose from a morning, midday, afternoon or late afternoon time frame which is suitable for almost every NYC travel itinerary.

• Price : From $217 / person
• Tour Length : 12 – 15 mins
• Included : Pre-recorded audio tour
• Need to know : $40 / person heliport and security fee not included

>> Book the Manhattan Sky tour here .

8. Private VIP New York City Helicopter Tour (+ Luxury SUV)

This extremely luxurious helicopter ride option is operated by HeliNY and includes a pick up from any Manhattan address 96th St or below with drop off after your NYC flight as well.

During this private flight, you and your group will see the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Chrysler Building, the MetLife Building, Intrepid, Empire State Building, Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge and more.

• Tour Provider : HeliNY
• Price : From $1,460
• Tour Length : 12 – 30 mins
• Included : Live commentary on board, Heliport landing and facility fees, fuel surcharge
• Need to know :  275 lbs (175kg) weight limit
• Rating : 5.0 / 5.0

>> Book the VIP private NYC helicopter tour here .

9. Private NYC Helicopter Tour From Westchester

For a unique experience, book a private helicopter tour for amazing views of Manhattan as you fly over Central Park and the Empire State Building.

Aboard an Airbus AS350/H125 helicopter, enjoy a day time, sunset or evening flight for you and your private group. We like this tour because it includes a roundtrip pickup or transfer from Manhattan.

• Tour Provider : Wing Air Helicopters
• Price : From $1,500
• Helipad: Westchester County Airport (White Plains)
• Tour Length : 30 – 45 mins
• Included : Roundtrip pickup or transfer from Manhattan (if booked)
• Need to know : $35 / person airport fee and fuel surcharge not included, maximum weight 1000 lbs (453 kg) for all 6 passengers, children under 2 may ride on parents’ laps at no cost

>> Book the Private NYC helicopter tour from Westchester .

Interested about Central Park in Winter? Don’t miss our popular guide featuring things to do in Central Park during the winter season .

10. NYC Helicopter Piloting Experience

Instead of enjoying a New York helicopter ride, maybe you would be interested in a helicopter flight lesson?! This experience includes a 30 minute ground instruction along with a 30 minute flight lesson.

Departing from Westchester, you can bring a friend or family member along as you control a Robinson R44 helicopter taking in the views of Westchester County, the Hudson River and the NYC skyline.

• Tour Provider : Wings Air Helicopters
• Price : From $540
• Tour Length : 1.0 – 1.5 hours
• Included : Ground instruction, private lesson, 1 passenger (optional), round trip pick up or transfer from Manhattan
• Need to know : $35 / person airport fee and fuel surcharge not included,

>> Book the Westchester helicopter piloting experience here .

NYC Helicopter Ride Photography Tips

By taking a helicopter ride over New York City, you will be sure to take home some amazing images from one of the best NYC photography locations of all from above!

Let’s finish with a few NYC helicopter ride photography tips:

• Wear neutral colors like grey to limit reflections in windows around the helicopter
• Get your lens as close to the glass as possible to limit glare
• Shutter speed needs to be up around 1/4000s – 1/5000s. Seriously because if you don’t, you will not get sharp images
• Use shutter priority and set it super-fast, leave your ISO on auto and let the camera choose your aperture (which will be the widest it goes, such as f/2.8 or f/4). Our ISO never went above 500 because we had a 2:00 pm flight on a bright day
• Take more photographs of the same thing than you usually would. Thermals, wind, someone moving and other mechanisms will cause the helicopter to jump, bounce and sway. Many of your images will not turn out, so you need to make sure you get 1 in 10 right
• Think about exactly what you want to capture before you fly. Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, Statue of Liberty etc. Knowing your frames ahead of time will significantly help

We understand how stressful it can be when it comes to photography on a NYC helicopter ride because you want to get the best shot during this once in a lifetime experience!

However, don’t spend all of your time behind the camera and take some time to soak up the stunning NYC views.

Looking To Save Money In New York City?

New York City is an expensive city and there is not much you can do about it. But we can show you have to save a little bit of money.

If you plan to visit several of New York City’s top attractions, we recommend you consider purchasing an attractions pass.

Buying a New York attractions pass will give you instant access to the most iconic NYC museums, landmarks and observation decks at a discounted price.

The idea is simple in that the more attractions you visit, the more discount you will recieve and the more money you save. It’s very similar to buying in bulk.

Having used the NYC attraction passes ourselves when we lived in New York, we recommend the New York Sightseeing Pass because its extremely easy to use while offering both flexibility and big savings .

While a New York helicopter tour is not currently included on any of the NY passes, you can recieve $70 off a Charm Aviation Manhattan Helicopter Tour by purchasing it as an add on with your NY Sightseeing Pass.

So we have teamed up with Sightseeing Pass to offer our readers an exclusive 10% discount .

Please just note if you want to purchase the Charm Aviation Manhattan Helicopter Tour, it must be purchased in addition to your DAY or FLEX Passes upon checkout to receive the $70 off.

Want To Save Money In NYC?

Use the button below to claim 10% off any NY Sightseeing Pass.

You can also read our detailed New York attraction pass comparison to help you decide which New York pass you should purchase for your visit to the Big Apple.

Need Help Planning Your Visit To NYC?

NYC is a trip planning beast and it can be overwhelming trying to get every aspect right.

After living in New York City, we created a comprehensive NYC travel guidebook that will answer every question you have about where to stay, what to do, where to eat and how to get around the city.

Click see details below to read more about how we can help you plan your dream trip to New York City!

NYC Helicopter Tour FAQ’s

Let’s take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions regarding helicopter rides in New York.

Each helicopter tour operator in NYC offers a similar experience, but the main difference is price, where the flight originates and door off versus door on experience. We enjoyed our helicopter tour with HeliNY because they offered one of the best value for money experiences with a great reputation for safety.

A Manhattan heliport will be easier to access, but you can save significant money on your flight by flying out of New Jersey. Some NYC helicopter tour operators also offer round trip transportation.

When booking a helicopter ride in New York City, you should consider price, company reputation, recent customer reviews, where the flight originates and flight length.

Our Popular NYC Guides

• Attractions – Fun things to do in New York City
• Itinerary – Perfect 4 day NYC itinerary
• Photography – 60+ Amazing New York photography spots
• Hotels – Best places to stay when visiting New York City
• Winter – Everything you need to know about NYC in winter
• Passes – Should you purchase a NYC attraction pass?
• Observation Decks – Which observation deck in NYC is best?
• Museums – Best New York City Museums to visit
• Pizza – Best pizza joints in New York City
• Bagels – Guide to finding the best bagels in NYC
• Spring – Things to know about visiting NYC in April

More NYC Guides

• Downtown NYC – Memorable things to do in Lower Manhattan
• Statue of Liberty – How to take the ferry to Statue of Liberty
• Edge at Hudson Yards – Guide to visiting Edge Skydeck in NYC
• Brooklyn Bridge – How to walk over the Brooklyn Bridge at night
• New York CityPASS – Is it worth buying a New York CityPASS?
• SUMMIT One Vanderbilt – How to visit SUMMIT One Vanderbilt in NYC

Want more New York City content?  Head to our  New York Travel Guides  to explore more from the Big Apple as well as beautiful upstate NY.

We hope this New York travel guide helps you choose the right tour company for your helicopter ride over Manhattan in NYC!

Please let us know if you have any questions about flying over New York City in a helicopter in the comments below.

Happy Flying ,

Mark and Kristen

Enjoy This HeliNY Review? Pin It For Your Visit!

Note : This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

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Zip aviation view all charters our helicopter tours of new york city provide you spectacular views and a unique experience. we offer you a new look at this beloved city like no other helicopter tour can see all of new york city’s historical sights from the most breathtaking aerial angles. all tours are offered in the following nine languages: english, spanish, french, german, russian, italian, chinese, japanese, and portuguese our charter services, private charters.

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Our Reviews Are Soaring Sky-High on TripAdvisor

This was the highlight of our trip to New York to celebrate our daughter’s 18th and a ‘big birthday’ of mine. We were lucky to have Andy Woods as our pilot that day - I was a wee bit worried but needn’t have been. He was so reassuring and such great fun! Made it a totally unforgettable experience. The views of the City were stunning and daughter is saving hard to return and do it all again as soon as possible!

I bought my husband and I the helicopter flight as a wedding gift and it was one of the first things we did in New York. I was nervous to begin with, but I sat with the pilot, Andrew, who calmed my nerves. The flight was absolutely amazing and the best way to see New York! Andrew the pilot was so friendly and you could tell he loves his job which made it an even better flight.

We were on a sightseeing holiday in New York and decided to take a helicopter ride and all I can say is WOW! From the guys on the ground to Andy, our pilot, everyone is there to make sure you have a memorable experience and all take the time to chat and laugh with you. An outstanding experience from beginning to end and it’s obvious from talking with Andy that he absolutely loves his job!

This was an incredible highlight of mine and my sister's recent trip to NYC. Andrew our pilot was brilliant, so friendly, funny and pointed out all the best sights across the city. Both of us had great views and the experience was great. The guys at the base were quite friendly and I also got a great photo from the experience. This was a gift from my sister for my birthday and it definitely made my day and I'll not forget this for a long time!!

13 Best New York City Helicopter Tours

By jhenr | Updated July 17th, 2022

• Get an aerial view of the Big Apple with one of these top helicopter tours of New York City!

If you wish to experience a bird’s eye view of New York City, taking a helicopter tour of the Big Apple is the way to go! From the dazzling city lights at night to up-close views of the Statue of Liberty, the sky is the limit when it comes to experiencing NYC. Don’t forget to bring your camera along to capture some incredible shots of your journey.

Table of Contents

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New York City is home to many unique and beautiful places, but it can be challenging to see them all.  With this Helicopter tour by  By Manhattan Helicopters, you can enjoy a birds-eye view of the entire Manhattan and some of the areas that make Manhattan so unique.

Some places you can expect to see while passing by are the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, One World Trade Center, the 9/11 Memorial , the Financial District, Battery Park, the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, iconic Times Square, Central Park, and the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum.  

This is a 20-minute ride that is perfect for small groups and to experience all of Manhattan while enjoying the helicopter ride, especially if it’s your first time flying on one!

Manhattan Helicopters

6 East River Piers, New York, NY 10004, USA

HeliNY provides tours of all the famous hot spots of the Big Apple, providing views of Yankee Stadium, the  Statue of Liberty, and One World Trade Center.

They then tour over the Hudson River and Brooklyn Bridge while passing by the five boroughs that make up New York before returning to the original departure spot. 

The tour is about 30 minutes long and includes photo opportunities for up to 4 people at each site.

HeliNY – Downtown Manhattan Heliport, 6 East River Piers, New York, NY 10004, USA

If you’ve ever wanted to experience the thrill of becoming a helicopter pilot, then this tour is for your eyes only!  Spend 1/2 hour with ground instructions that cover the flight controls, helicopter flying techniques, and safety procedures. 

Depart from Westchester County Airport in White Plains with a professional flight instructor from Wings Air Helicopters, lasting around 30 minutes.  You are allowed to bring a friend to take pictures to remember your meaningful journey. You will get stunning views of  Westchester County, the New York/Connecticut coastline, the Hudson River, and the NYC skyline in the distance.

This option does not allow flights directly over New York City, so you will have to settle for views from a short distance.  Take over the controls, put your ground learning to work see what makes a helicopter fly, and see New York from a whole new angle.

Wings Air Helicopters: 136 Tower Road, West Harrison, NY  10604

Meeting Point: 67 Tower Road, West Harrison, NY 10604

Plan your tour in luxury and comfort with door-to-door service provided by HeliNY.  Enjoy all the beautiful views of iconic buildings and hot spots in New York City without having to worry about getting to and from the heliport.

This is an excellent option for those who have a full day planned to save time to find transportation to their next event. This tour can be customized from 60 to 120 minutes; go ahead and schedule your time to make it your own.

Night tours is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, book an NYC helicopter tour in the nighttime for an aerial view of New York City in its prime. 

Helicopter Ride NYC provides 30-minute tours leaving from Linden Airport, New Jersey, offering a view of the Statue of Liberty from the New Jersey side and then on towards the financial district with striking views of the tall skyscrapers, Brooklyn, Queens, Time Square, and other City hot spots.  

Nothing compares to seeing the neon sights and dazzling lights that bring New York City to life.  Bring your cameras and take all the photos you like to remember this unique and interesting experience.

Helicopter Ride NYC 

Linden Airport, NJ (New York City) 

One of the top sites to visit in Upstate New York is Niagara Falls , but getting there from New York City can be time-consuming, needing almost an entire day by ground transportation; With this helicopter tour, you can shave hours off your travel time, allowing more time to enjoy your time at the falls.  

Fly directly from the Manhattan heliport of your choice and enjoy beautiful views of Manhattan’s top sights before heading to the Niagara Falls Airport (US side) for a quick flyover to get a bird’s eye view of beautiful falls.  

You have up to 4-5 hours to walk around, get close up to the falls, and take some fantastic Instagram-worthy pictures.  Find a local restaurant to dine at and do some sightseeing before heading back to Manhattan for a view of New York City skyline before landing.

By Wings Air Helicopters

West 30th St Heliport, NY-9A, New York, NY 10011, USA

TSS Heliport, E 34th St, New York, NY 10016, USA

The Hamptons is marked by long stretches of beach and small towns with antique buildings.  It is a trendy destination for affluent New York City residents looking to get away for a moment of peace and sunshine by the water. 

Wings Air Helicopters offers private charters that take you on a quick tour of New York City before whisking you away from the hustle and bustle of it all for a private oasis retreat in the Hamptons.  

This tour includes a delightful picnic, entirely set with luxurious decor and accessories.  A personal attendant would be there to serve you right on the beach, with clean-up included.  Take some time to marvel at the beautiful relaxing day before returning to the big city.  

Air Pegasus Heliport, 335 W 30th St & 12th Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA

TSS Heliport is open weekdays only.

You can depart from the Wall Street Heliport.

What better way to celebrate a remarkable achievement or enjoy New York City than being in the company of your closest people aboard a private helicopter?

See famous landmarks like Rockefeller Center , Chrysler Building, Central Park, and Madison Square Garden, to name a few. A delicious Champagne toast is included to mark a special occasion or enjoy good company. 

Try the tour at sunset; it makes for a beautiful experience with breathtaking pictures. This tour lasts 30 minutes, but they offer many other options for toasting your time to.

Please note: Charters will depart from a different location on weekends.

Saker Aviation Services, 6 East River Greenway, Bikeway, NY 10004, USA

Charters will arrive at different locations depending on the day and time.

If you’re interested in planning a New York City helicopter tour for your engagement or special occasion, then a Helicopter ride from Manhattan to Glenmere Mansion tour is perfect.  

Wings Air Helicopters Provides a private travel experience starting with a tour of New York City and arriving at the 1911 Tuscan-inspired Glenmere mansion.  

Included with this tour is a three-course meal with champagne, of course, and a one-hour photo shoot. It is easy to celebrate any special occasion or proposal in style with this tour. 

Plan an optional overnight stay at the mansion with marble bathrooms, heated floors, fireplaces, and views of the extensive grounds, or enjoy a relaxing evening with a couples massage of your choice!

Wings Air Helicopters

You can start from the Wall Street Heliport.

If you’re looking for an in-the-air adventure that will make your heart sing, look no further than a Private Lake Placid Olympic Experience via Private Helicopter from NYC with tours provided by Wings Air Helicopters.  

This tour departs Manhattan and takes you to Lake Placid, home to the Winter Olympics in 1980.  You can enjoy winter activities to your heart’s content, from Bob Sledding to Sking to joining a Hockey game, complete with scoreboards and Medals. 

Stop by the Lake Placid Olympic Museum for some goodies and enjoy a fresh local lunch (included in this tour) at their Lodge. 

Sports enthusiasts will surely enjoy this New York City Tour, so go ahead and book one today! 

West 30th St Heliport, New York, NY 10011, USA

Wall Street Heliport

Returning to point of Departure.

Time is always of the essence when it comes to New York.  If you have a tight schedule, you can kill two birds with one stone- so to speak- with this combination of airport transfer with a Helicopter scenic tour by By Wings Air Helicopters.

Transfers are organized between airlines and Helipad.  If you’re arriving in the Big city, you can enjoy first-hand views of all that manhattan has to offer, a great way to get to know the city. If you’re organizing a return flight, this is an excellent way to end a beautiful vacation.  

Contact Wings Air Helicopters to get participating airline and arrange your pickup/drop-off information.

New York City has enough going on to entertain for days but if you’re looking for something unique and special to do away from the lights and attractions, try a romantic vineyard picnic via private helicopter by By Wings Air Helicopters.

They fly you over Manhattan, where you can enjoy ariel views of the City, and head directly to Sand Castle Winery in Erwinna, Pennsylvania, where you land directly on the property. 

Such a grand entrance and the perfect setting for your special guests. Enjoy a VIP Tour of the Cellars and historic castle (entrance fee provided) followed by a delightful picnic in an outstanding row.  For colder weather, lunch is served indoors with beautiful views of the winery.

For those who are into cars and has a passion for high-performance autosports, this Racecar Driving Experience via Private Helicopter tour “By Wings Air Helicopters” is for you!

Hop aboard a private Helicopter with up to three guests and enjoy the sights of New York City as you head to Monticello, NY.  You land track-side for a glamorous entrance into the premier automotive club. 

Head to the clubhouse for check-in (entrance fee is included) and enjoy the day doing what you love on the track for hours in the late-model BMW of your choice.  

Lunch is included with this unique experience.  Surprise your special sports fanatic with this unique and fantastic gift!

Departure and Returning details:

335 W 30th St, New York, NY 10001, USA

West 30th Street Heliport, NYC

499 E 34th St, New York, NY 10016, USA

East 34th Street Heliport, NYC

Wall Street Heliport, NYC

Get an aerial view of the Big Apple with one of these top helicopter tours of NYC. Visibility is excellent and you can see the city’s most iconic landmarks from up above. If you are looking for a memorable experience, try one or more of these top tours of New York City.

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New York Helicopter Tours

A nyc experience you don’t want to miss., departing from:.

The Best views of NYC are right here.

Get your camera ready, #1 ranked tour of nyc.

Experience the symbols of America’s freedom. You’ll be eye-to-eye with the Statue of Liberty. Get a bird’s eye view of Ellis and Governor’s Island. Take in views of lower Manhattan, as you soar above the Hudson, on this New York helicopter tour. 

Iconic landmarks of NYC

Marvel at the sites that make New York City famous, including all landmarks on The Central Park tour. Cruise by the Empire State building on your way to scope out Central Park. Then take a grand sweep around George Washington bridge. 

$224 per person + $45 per person heliport fee ALl INclusive

$274 per person + $45 per person heliport fee all inclusive.

If you want to see it all, this tour is for you. Breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. See all the sites on our other NYC tours and more! See the Verrazano bridge and get a bird’s eye view of Yankee Stadium. 

$354 per person + $45 per person heliport fee ALl INclusive

The central park tour, the grand tour, the grand tour, the liberty tour, the grand tour of nyc.

Marvel at the sites that make New York City famous, including all landmarks on the Taste of NYC tour. Cruise by the Empire State building on your way to scope out Central Park. Then take a grand sweep around George Washington bridge. 

$200 per person + $45 per person heliport fee ALl INclusive

$235 per person + $45 per person heliport fee all inclusive, $275 per person + $45 per person heliport fee all inclusive, nyc skyline tour, ultimate nyc tour, taste of nyc tour, ultimate aerial tour of nyc, tours departing from new jersey, tours departing from manhattan, stress-free travel: new york helicopter charters, travel in comfort and style..

New York City is known for its traffic. Getting around the city can be challenging and time consuming. Avoid train schedules and grid-lock traffic with a helicopter charter. We’ll pick you up and take you wherever you want to go. You’ll reach your destination in just a few minutes.

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New York City Helicopter tours – prices, duration, timings, flight route

A New York City helicopter tour is an excellent way to take in a bird’s eye panoramic view of Gotham City.

From the Manhattan Battery Park to Wall Street, from Upper Manhattan to the renowned Coney Island beach, a helicopter tour over New York is a memorable holiday activity.

The duration of NYC helicopter tours may range from 10 minutes to three hours.

This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets for the New York helicopter tour.

Top New York City Helicopter Tours

# Liberty Harbor Helicopter Tour

# Big Apple Helicopter Tour # New York City Deluxe Helicopter Tour

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Best time of the year for helicopter tour, best time for helicopter tour over new york, helicopter tour’s price and duration, are new york helicopter tours worth the cost, best helicopter tour companies, landmarks you will see, new york city deluxe helicopter tour, helicopter tour exclusions, security for helicopter tours nyc, meeting point, bell 206b jet ranger, bell 407/bell 407gx, agustawestland 109sp grand new, new york helicopter tours may get banned.

The best time for a helicopter tour of New York is anytime – how can you go wrong with New York City?

The city of New York looks mesmerizing from above in all seasons.

However, if you want the city to be in its best form, we suggest a helicopter tour over New York in the Fall or Spring.

Fall in New York is between mid-September to mid-December.

The crisp breeze, bright sun, and just-the-right temperatures, coupled with the fall colors, make your Helicopter tour of NYC memorable.

Spring is mid-March to mid-June.

Since the heliport is closed on Sunday, there are no helicopter tours over New York. 

Most helicopter tours in the Big Apple are available from Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 6.30 pm. On holidays, they wrap up early – by 5 pm.

Flights over the East River (looking west over the City) are best done in the morning because the sun will be behind you.

It is best to plan flights over the Hudson River (looking east over the City) in the late afternoon with the sun on your back.

Since the helicopter can fly in different directions during a tour, 1 to 3 pm is the best time for a helicopter tour over New York.

During this period, the sun is on top, and the rays are not in your eyes, obstructing both your view and ability to take photographs. 

Even though heli tours are costly, chopper rides are a sought-after tourist activity. 

And getting your favorite time slot for your chopper tour of NYC isn’t always possible.

Here is what we recommend to obtain your preferred time slot for a helicopter tour:

1. Book your helicopter tour 2-3 weeks in advance

2. Call up the tour company after booking the tickets and reserve your time slot

Because of the demand, the helicopter rides are almost always delayed by 30-60 minutes. 

Keep this in mind while planning your sortie above New York.

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Most helicopter tours in New York last 12 to 30 minutes, which is enough to make a pleasant flight over the major attractions of the Big Apple.

Most of the trips lasting this duration cost a little over US$200 per person.

Fifteen minutes are enough to see most of New York’s attractions, but some tourists prefer more air time.

If you opt for a private helicopter tour , you can decide the duration of the flying time.

Recommended reading: Cheap helicopter tours in New York

If we look at the money spent per minute, helicopter tours are one of the costliest tourist activities in New York.

For instance, the introductory helicopter tour lasts for about 12-15 minutes and costs a little over US$200 per person. 

As the duration of the helicopter ride over New York increases, the cost goes up.

A 25 to 30-minute helicopter ride over New York will put you back by about US$350.

Due to these prohibitive costs, a helicopter tour in New York is not for the commoner.

However, if you can afford it, it is an adrenaline rush you should indulge in at least once in your life. 

Tourists who have flown over New York confirm that the rush of accelerating over the New York landmarks is fascinating.

Besides, the panoramic view of the New York skyline makes for great photo opportunities.

Helicopter tours of NYC are not the best way to explore the massive city. If that’s your objective, we suggest  Hop On Hop Off New York bus tour  or one of the popular New York discount cards such as   NYC Explorer Pass ,  New York Pass , or  CityPass , which get you free entry into many attractions.  

There are numerous helicopter tour companies in New York.

The names of these helicopter tour companies sound similar and confuse the average tourist visiting New York, which is precisely the intention.

Some of the helicopter tour companies that specialize in NYC and other cities in the USA are –

• CitySights NY
• Liberty Helicopters
• Wings Air Helicopters
• New York Helicopter
• Helicopter New York City
• Awesome Flight LLC
• Helicopter Fight Services
• CityExperts NY
• Helicopters Air Charter
• Global Positioning Jets

The top four are  Liberty Helicopters ,  Helicopter Fight Services ,  Wings Air Helicopters , and  Zip Aviation .

Of these four, based on the quality of the choppers, quality of the tours, safety record, and punctuality, we recommend Zip Aviation.

Recommended Reading: Best cruises from New York

Best helicopter tour NYC

There are numerous helicopter tours in New York , but our favorites are the NYC Manhattan Helicopter Tour , Big Apple Helicopter Tour , and New York City Deluxe Helicopter Tour.

We explain them below, and you can choose the most appropriate tour based on the time you want to spend in the air and your budget.

To know the path your chopper will take for each recommended tour, check out the helicopter route map below.

These helicopter tours of Manhattan in New York are in high demand, and if you book in advance, you are more likely to get your preferred time and date.

All three tours are offered in English. The Manhattan Helicopter Tour is also available in Spanish, French, German, Russian, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, and Portuguese.

NYC Manhattan Helicopter Tour

All passengers of the Liberty Harbor Helicopter tour are welcomed like celebrities and strapped into your helicopter seat.

After a safety briefing, your pilot lifts off to show you stunning views of New York’s breathtaking skyline.

Your helicopter flies by Lower Manhattan’sManhattan’s Battery Park and Wall Street, announcing to the World that you have arrived.

You then stare right into the eyes of the Statue of Liberty before you turn back to go up the Hudson River. On the way, you take in aerial views of Ellis Island.

A string of New York attractions follow one by one on your right-hand side.

After crossing the USS Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum, you will spot the lush greenery of New York’sYork’s famed Central Park.

After going halfway up Central Park, the pilot will turn back, and this time you can see all the attractions on your left-hand side.

Once your helicopter tour NYC is over, the pilot brings you back to Pier 6.

The duration of this heli tour is 12 to 15 minutes.

The cost of this New York City helicopter tour is $229 per person.

This price doesn’t include the $40 per person heliport fee mandated by the Downtown Manhattan Heliport, which you will have to pay before takeoff.

The tour is available Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 6.30 pm.

1. Statue of Liberty 2. Ellis Island 3. One World Trade Center 4. 9/11 Memorial 5. Brooklyn Bridge 6. Battery Park 7. Wall Street/Financial District 8. Empire State Building 9. Chrysler Building 10. Madison Square Garden 11. Times Square 12. U.S.S. Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum 13. Central Park

Recommended reading: Manhattan Helicopter Tour

Big Apple Helicopter Tour

Take an exhilarating helicopter ride above Manhattan and witness the city’s most iconic landmarks.

You’ll see the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, Statue of Liberty, and Central Park, among others.

Departing from Pier 6, you’ll fly above the Hudson River, catch a glimpse of Governors and Ellis Islands, and witness Manhattan’s Financial District.

You’ll also see famous buildings such as the Chrysler, Woolworth, and Hudson Yards, Grand Central Terminal, and the USS Intrepid. On this portion of the flight, you’ll get a peek at the George Washington Bridge and the renowned Central Park.

Choose between options to extend your flight and soar past Central Park, Yankee Stadium, St. John the Divine Cathedral, Columbia University, and even the Palisades of New Jersey.

Visitors can take a helicopter tour of New York City starting at $269 per person.

The tour can last between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the package selected.

The ticket price covers the Heliport security and facility fee of US$40.

This comprehensive tour is an incredible way to see New York City from the sky!

Like the previous helicopter tour, this is also available from Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 6.30 pm.

• The Chrysler Building
• The Empire State Building
• The Statue of Liberty
• Central Park
• The Brooklyn Bridge
• The Manhattan Bridge
• Governors Island
• Ellis Island
• Manhattan’s Financial District
• Woolworth Building
• Hudson Yards
• Grand Central Terminal
• USS Intrepid
• George Washington Bridge
• St. John the Divine Cathedral
• Columbia University
• Palisades of New Jersey

Recommended reading: Big Apple Helicopter Tour

Experience the exhilarating thrill of helicopter travel as you take a ride over Manhattan.

The New York Deluxe helicopter tour is customized for adventure seekers.

With this chopper tour of New York, you get to see all the attractions mentioned in the previous two tours and more.

With narration from a highly-trained pilot, discover the best of New York City and take in breathtaking views of the Big Apple from the sky.

Enjoy the best views in New York City from inside a helicopter, complete with large floor-to-ceiling convex windows for your viewing pleasure.

With tour narration and all heliport fees included, there is no better way to enjoy the dramatic and ever-evolving New York City skyline.

Visitors will also be provided with noise-cancelling Bose headsets and access to lockers.

Choose the flight duration on the tour booking page, with prices ranging between US$274 and US$379.

When you book your helicopter tour of New York City, only the flight time is included.

The booking doesn’t include Gratuities (which are optional) and hotel pickup and drop-off.

All helicopters seat 5-6 passengers plus the pilot, which means it won’t be a private tour.

A free tour is included for your child if they are less than 15 Kgs, and you can show proof of age.

Regardless of the tour operator, all tourists must go through security before they take off on a Manhattan Sky tour.

• All flyers are expected to produce a valid photo ID card (preferably a Driver’s license or a Passport)
• All flyers must walk through a metal detector, as in an airport
• Since no handbags or carry-on bags are allowed on the helicopter, you must leave your bags with the tour operator’s security
• Flyers can carry their cameras and video cameras on the helicopter, but they have to go through the security first
• Weight restrictions may apply to ensure the safety of all passengers – nobody can exceed 350 Lbs (or 159 Kg)

The meeting point for a New York Helicopter Tour will vary depending on the tour option you choose.

It’s important to keep in mind that the meeting location may change.

Visitors should check the booking page before arriving to confirm the exact location.

Recommended Reading: Best helicopter tours in USA

Helicopters used for NYC chopper tours

Usually, three types of choppers are used for heli tours in New York.

The Bell 206B Jet Ranger is a two-blade, single-engine helicopter that can seat four passengers and one pilot.

This helicopter’s safety, size, and easy maneuverability make it a top choice for sky tours of Manhattan.

Bell Jet Ranger’s agility is so legendary that the US Army signed a contract with Bell to mass-produce it in its military form.

The Army version is called the Kiowa Warrior.

The Bell 407 is a four-blade, single-engine helicopter that is quite popular with flying tour operators.

It can carry six passengers in addition to a pilot.

This chopper is the epitome of luxury with leather seating, extra headroom, state-of-the-art noise-canceling headsets, etc.

The AgustaWestland GrandNew is a modern helicopter used in various roles – both civilian and military.

It can seat five passengers and two pilots.

The Grand New chopper offers high-performance capabilities, a spacious cabin, and a low environmental footprint.

The city of New York doesn’t like helicopter tours.

For decades, the city’s citizens have been citing air and noise pollution by the thousands of helicopter tours and asking them to stop.

Till 2016, there were almost 200 helicopter takeoffs every day.

By 2017, this number was reduced by half – so now less than 100 helicopters take off from Pier 6 heliport every day.

Federal law prohibits these tour flights from flying directly over New York City, Governor’s Island, and Staten Island.

In April 2018, a new bill was discussed, which aimed to ban helicopter tours of Manhattan forever.

You may want to go on a tour before it gets banned.

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Sources # Tripadvisor.com # Heliny.com # Newyorkhelicopter.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy.

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Venkata Viswanadh

Venkata Viswanadh is an adventurous wordsmith on a mission to uncover hidden tales and share captivating stories from around the world. He embarks on thrilling journeys through time and space, weaving captivating tales of history, culture, and conquering mountain peaks. Favourite Cities: Barcelona, Paris, New York

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

1 thought on “New York City Helicopter tours – prices, duration, timings, flight route”

Thanks for the tip to take a helicopter ride over New York City in the Fall or Spring. I don’t want to travel there right now because of COVID-19. I’ll wait until the Spring to see if it is any better and then maybe head to New York with my wife for a helicopter ride.

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Plan The Perfect Trip To New York City

New York City, also known as The City that Never Sleeps or The Big Apple, is considered one of the most vibrant and captivating cities globally. Millions dream of visiting this bustling urban center at some point in their lives. The best way to experience the city on your first trip to New York is to put a 3-day itinerary together and explore its attractions in sections, breaking your visit up area by area.

Wherever you are traveling from it is worth shopping around for flights to NYC and looking at Trip Advisor and similar sites to get an idea of which airlines are hot and which really are not! For example, Norwegian airline Norse Atlantic reviewed as excellent by travelers. With particular emphasis on the cleanliness of the plane, seats and bathroom areas; friendliness of the staff and the fact that the meals were inclusive. With direct flights to NYC from Oslo, Paris, London and Rome travelers should definitely check out the amazing offers from this airline.

Start Your Trip

A trip to NYC wouldn’t be the same without a proper New York breakfast. Bagels, Waffles – The choice is yours.

This is where you will start the initial activity on your 3-day New York schedule.

Be sure to check out the nearby 9/11 Memorial Museum , a solemn but important spot that commemorates the tragic event that had a global impact.

The museum is meticulously designed and moving, featuring an outdoor memorial.

The Oculus , an impressive architectural marvel, is a must-visit just a short distance from the 9/11 Memorial. Functioning as both a railway station and a retail center, it is an excellent location to explore prior to enjoying a meal.

Make sure you visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island , symbolizing immigrants’ chance for freedom and opportunity. Exploring these famous landmarks will occupy the majority of your afternoon and provide a fulfilling experience while you are in New York City.

Beginning at Wall Street , a brief stroll takes you to the Brooklyn Bridge in Lower Manhattan.

The footbridge, spanning more than a mile, provides a secure route away from the busy traffic.

The views along the bridge are breathtaking, but the presence of crowds can add a sense of busyness to the experience.

This famous intersection is an ideal end to a day in NYC. After crossing over, make your way to Brooklyn Bridge Park to discover the stylish neighborhood of Brooklyn.

Covering 85 acres next to the Hudson River, the park provides breathtaking city skyline vistas. It is highly suggested to relax and appreciate the view in the evening.

A trip to New York City isn’t complete without experiencing the unforgettable shows in Broadway . Make sure to plan in advance, as popular performances may run out of tickets rapidly.

To Summarize

There’s so much to see and do in New York City we would be here forever listing everything you need to see. We would suggest researching NYC thoroughly before planning your trip – you may not get another chance to visit this amazing city, so it’s worth cramming in as much as you possibly can!

Explored Planet

The World's Best Places For A Helicopter Tour

Posted: November 15, 2023 | Last updated: November 16, 2023

Earth is filled with the most beautiful natural landscapes of dazzling skylines, crystal-clear water, and majestic mountaintops. These wonders can be reached several ways, but there's something special about traveling by helicopter. Exploring the world in a helicopter gives people an amazing aerial view that can't be seen by any other mode of transportation.

Getting the chance to do this could have you riding over waterfalls, dipping past the Grand Canyon, or seeing a private view of the iconic Hollywood sign. If you're ready for the adventure of a lifetime, consider taking at least one of these scenic helicopter tours.

Fly High Above The Grand Canyon

If you're traveling around the Grand Canyon by foot or car there's only so much you can see in one visit, not to mention having to battle the crowds to get a good spot. The carved rocks were formed billions of years ago and stretch almost 300 miles along the Colorado River and the Arizona desert.

This is why it makes for a perfect helicopter tour. Not only do riders get to see the ins and outs of the canyon, but they will also get to fly over the Vegas Strip, Hoover Dam, and the Mojave Desert. Some tours have permission to land inside the canyon where guests can take a riverboat ride or trip along the Skywalk.

Escape The Tourists While Riding Around Rio de Janeiro

South America's most-visited city is Rio de Janeiro, Brazil with almost two and a half million new visitors every year. The sights most people want to see are usually flooded with tourists, but taking a helicopter tour can give you a private view of this lively city.

Here, tourists can get an aerial view of Ipanema Beach, Copacabana, the Maracanã Soccer Stadium, Sugarloaf, and the statue of Christ the Redeemer. Christ the Redeemer is one of the world's most photographed manmade sites and seeing it by helicopter can give riders unique vantage points.

Climb Mt. Everest Without Breaking A Sweat

Climbing Mt. Everest in Nepal is quite a bucket list adventure, but there are other ways of reaching the top. This 29,029-foot mountain is the tallest mountain in the world, so the trek is nothing short of a challenge. The helicopter tour of the mountain will allow people to reach the top without having to step foot on the ground.

The tour starts at Kathmandu and goes upward toward Sherpa village, Lukla, Tengboche, Dingboche, Gorakshep, and the Khumbu glacier. Riders will fly though the majestic Himalayan mountain range and land at the Everest Base Camp, which is located at 17,598-feet above sea level.

This Kauai Helicopter Tour Is Like A Scene Out Of A Movie

There's a reason why films such as Jurassic Park , Indiana Jones , and Pirates of the Caribbean shot many of their scenes against the gorgeous backdrop of Kauai. This small Hawaiian island runs along the shores of the Na Pali coastline and features secluded tidal pools, grottos, and waterfalls.

There are several helicopter tours in Hawaii that will take guests through Kauai's scenic landscape, but they don't stop there. Most tours go to other islands where guests can see other landmarks including the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the Kohala Coast.

See The Stars While Roaming Over The Hollywood Hills

Those who want to fly over Hollywood, California are in luck because there are numerous tours that will do just that. These services offer some luxury amenities including a champagne toast with cheesecake and berries, a private sunset ride, and a recording of a 360-degree virtual reality video.

Riders will get to see several famous Los Angeles landmarks including the Hollywood sign, Universal Studios, Griffith Observatory, Dodger Stadium, The Getty Center, the Hollywood Bowl, and more. Flight times usually range from about 10 to 90 minutes and the maximum weight per person is 285 pounds.

Dive Above The Ocean Floor At The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, Australia is the world's biggest coral reef, which stretches over 1,429 miles. Many visitors go there to dive below the water, but a helicopter tour will give them an unforgettable aerial view.

Many have reported sightings of sea creatures such as sharks, turtles, and stingrays from their helicopter tours. Also, those who want to see both above and below the reef should find the tours that offer snorkel and dive stops on anchored pontoons. If you choose to take a longer trip, they stop in other areas of Australia including the Daintree Rainforest, Cairns Highlands, and the Mossman and Baron gorges.

Get Ready To View Island Paradise In Turks And Caicos

Anyone looking for a tropical getaway will get all they want and more at the British Overseas Territory of Turks and Caicos. There are swaying palm trees, bright white sand, and clear blue water throughout the 40 islands. Most tours visit many Turks and Caicos attractions including Chalk Sound National Park, Grace Bay Beach, Iguana Island, and Pine Cay.

When guests fly over the water they are sometimes able to spot sharks, stingrays, dolphins, and whales. Something helpful about the helicopter tours in Turks and Caicos is how they are very flexible and cater to visitors' time and budgets.

Catch A Glimpse Of The World's Most Majestic Waterfalls In Iguazú Falls

One of the best ways to view the famous Iguazú Falls is by helicopter. It's located on the border between Brazil and Argentina and is thought to be one of the great wonders of nature. This area has the largest and longest waterfalls in the world with over 275 drops with the deepest being 269-feet long.

When visitors fly over the falls they can get a bird's eye view of the iconic Devils' Throat canyon and the surrounding jungle. Some helicopter tours will stop near walkways where people can step right in front of the waterfalls.

See New York City From All Angles

Getting to see all of New York City by foot can take several days. It's the most populated city in the United States and not everyone has the energy to get through the crowds. Helicopter tours of the city allow tourists to see how large New York actually is, while getting a grand view of its iconic layout.

Most tours start at the southern tip of Manhattan and travel through several famous attractions including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, One World Trade Center, Wall Street, Yankee Stadium, Central Park, the Empire State Building, and much more.

Take To The Skies At The Amalfi Coast

Italy's Amalfi Coast is nothing short of an extraordinary view. Their seaside cliffs are a top vacation spot for about five million people every year. While some may want to spend their Italian vacation lounging at the beach or exploring the nearby fishing villages, the town actually makes for a memorable helicopter trip.

Seeing Italy by helicopter allows visitors to experience the true beauty of the area. People have the option of viewing additional cities after the Amalfi Coast such as Capri, Naples, Ischia, and Sorrento. There's also an option to fly into Pompeii and explore it from the ground.

Zip Through The Sights Of Cape Town, South Africa

One of the most popular helicopter tour options in Cape Town, South Africa is the "Two Oceans" flight where riders can fly over both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. You'll also get to fly behind Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles mountain range, which are some of the greatest natural wonders in Africa.

If you get a chance to ride above Muizenberg Beach, you might be able to see some great white sharks. Once you finish with the helicopter tours there are plenty of other ways to see Cape Town including safaris, gourmet picnics, and shark cage diving.

Soar Above The Skyscrapers In Hong Kong

Something that visitors can't miss in Hong Kong, China is their skyscraper skyline. Hong Kong has been one of the most diverse cities in Asia due to early British colonization causing it to become a unique metropolitan hub. Many flights also offer stunning views of the Victoria Harbour, as well as the surrounding beaches and bays of South Hong Kong Island.

Those who want to add a little luxury to their helicopter tours can opt for packages such as "Fly and Dine" or "Fly and Tea" where people can eat and drink delicious Chinese delicacies onboard.

Plunge Into The Magical Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, otherwise known as "The Smoke That Thunders," is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. It can be found on the Zambezi River on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and has a width of over 5,604 feet.

While seeing Victoria Falls from the ground is still a great experience, seeing it from a helicopter makes it even more special. From the sky people can view the rainbow shining through the waterfall's mist. Some tours get to ride above the Batoka Gorges and Zambezi National Park where people can spot giraffes, crocodiles, hippos, and elephants.

Witness The Great Heights Of Juneau, Alaska

Anyone who loves the great outdoors will feel very satisfied after visiting Juneau, Alaska. There are over three million lakes, 16,000 miles of glaciers, and 34,000 miles of shoreline. This southeastern Alaskan city is the second largest city in the United States by area and is the ideal place to take a helicopter tour.

Riders can soar over the Mendenhall Glacier and remote ice fields. Some are even lucky enough to spot the dogsled camps for those practicing for the Iditarad Trail Sled Dog Race. One specific tour called the "Icefield Excursion" takes riders on a trip around Alaska's wilderness and ends on a glacier for people do a walkabout.

Look Out For Wild Animals At Serengeti National Park

Safaris may be the perfect way to get an up-close view of wild animals, but a helicopter ride can allow you to take them all in at once. One of the places visitors are bound to see thousands of wild animals is the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.

Anyone planning a trip to do this should try and go between July and October to catch the Great Migration. It's the largest animal migration in the world where millions of zebras, wildebeest, and other antelope species make the journey from Tanzania to Kenya. They have to face many threats such as crocodile-infested waters and terrestrial predators (lions, leopards, etc.).

Fly Around Glaciers And Mountains In New Zealand

Both the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers in South Island, New Zealand are some of the most visited glaciers in the world due to their easy accessibility. Riding high above the glaciers is a thrill unlike no other because people will get to gander at some of nature's most picturesque landscapes.

Not only do helicopter tours show aerial views of the snow-covered mountains, but they also fly over the nearby rainforests. Some of the tours will allow riders to land right on the glaciers themselves, so there's plenty of time to explore.

Find Some Of The Clearest Blue Water In Fiji

Anyone with the chance to vacation in Fiji should consider themselves lucky. There are several luxury resorts that offer private villas, plunge pools, in-room spa treatments, five-star dining, and other grandiose amenities. Many of these resorts can only be reached by helicopter.

While flying through the air in Fiji, chances are you'll pass the deep gorges, rolling green hills, and crystal blue waters. The pilots are also said to be extremely friendly and will often give commentary about the island and what people should do during their stay.

View Niagara Falls Without Getting Wet

When people visit Niagara Falls they may choose to ride the Maid of the Mist boat tour, but that usually leads to them getting soaked. For a drier view you may want to try out a helicopter tour. It takes off along Victoria Avenue and glides down the Niagara River.

Riders often spot Whirlpool Rapids, Rainbow Bridge, and Queen Victoria Park along the way. If you're wondering why Niagara Falls has a greenish tint, it's because of the dissolved salts and rock flour that pours over the edge at a rate of about four million cubic feet per minute.

Experience Some Historical Architecture In Chicago

Some may think of Chicago as a city full of deep-dish pizza and home of a couple of the country's most popular baseball teams, but it's actually full of rich history. They have some of the most diverse architecture in the entire country, which is demonstrated through their unique skyline and streetscape.

The city has plenty of helicopter tours for guests who want to get a bird's eye view of attractions such as the Willis Tower, Lake Michigan, Millennium Park, Grant Park, Soldier Field, the John Hancock Building, Wrigley Field, and more.

Go Deep Into The Jungle At Virunga National Park

There's plenty to see at Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. They have multiday helicopter tours available where travelers can view the jungle high above the treetops. It's very common to see the mountain gorillas and elephants roaming about, which will seem like a scene out of Tarzan .

Some tours also stop at Mount Nyiragongo, which features an active volcano. Virunga National Park is Africa's oldest wildlife park and has been a pristine habitat rich in biodiversity for several decades. Both the lowland and forest are overflowing with diverse species of trees, ferns, butterflies, birds, and more.

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