helicopter tour in new york price

Lower Manhattan, helicopter tours new york city

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.

Aerial view of Lower Manhattan, helicopter ride nyc

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.

Nighttime view of Manhattan, new york helicopter ride

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.

Doors-off helicopter, new york by helicopter

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 .

Aerial view of Central Park, helicopter over new york price

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.

Freedom Tower from above, helicopter tour new york price

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.

Flying lesson over NY, nyc helicopter ride

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.

Flying over Manhattan, new york city helicopter tour price

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.

Lower Manhattan from above, private helicopter tour nyc for 2

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 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

Manhattan_Sky_Tour_Best_helicopter_Ride_NYC

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

New_York_Manhattan_Scenic_Helicopter_Ride_NYC

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

New_York_Helicopter_Tour_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.

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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

Helicopter point of view of Manhattan island in New York City at sunset.

Getty Images

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.

The Best Helicopter Tours in New York City

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.

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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.

Need to make a connection at the airport?

Check out our airport transfers, headed out of town, see our helicopter charter destinations, all flights are conducted by new york helicopter charter ny9a9001 certificate number, why choose us.

EXPERIENCEd

We've been flying in NYC for more than 30 years.

We offer the best rates in the city.

We have an industry leading safety record.

Professional

Our pilots are friendly, professional, and experienced.

Your comfort and safety is our top priority.

convenience

On-demand charters and airport transfers

New York is our city, and we’ll show you a good time.

Give them the best gift ever!

Give the gift of an amazing experience, breathtaking views, and a little adventure., buy a gift certificate, have questions.

We’re happy to assist you in planning your next flight. Fill out our contact form, or give us a call at:

For departing from manhattan (212) 361-6060
for departing from new jersey (212) 480-8300

Contact us to plan your trip

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Downtown manhattan heliport 6 east river piers new york, ny 10004, (212) 361-6060, manhattan location.

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Everything about tourist attractions

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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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.

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.

Recommended Reading: Romantic things for couples in Las Vegas

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.

How Much Is a Helicopter Ride in NYC?

This post answers the question of how much is an NYC helicopter ride, including reviews and tips for the best rides as well as tips for finding discounts .

We have analyzed which New York helicopter tour is the best, the cheapest, and the best value. ( leer en español )

Cost and Value
Discounted Helicopter Tours
List of Companies
Where Is the Heliport
What Can You Expect?
Other Things to Do in NYC

HOW MUCH DOES A HELICOPTER RIDE COST IN NYC?

How much a helicopter ride costs depends on the length of the ride, as most helicopter operators have a similar pricing structure.

For the most part, helicopter rides are divided into 3 options, a 15-minute ride, a 20-minute ride, or a 30-minute ride.

15 MINUTE RIDE

The 15-minute rides usually are limited to the NY Harbor and fly up a part of the Hudson River.

Your tour will include a fly around the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island and you will be able to see most of Lower Manhattan including the Brooklyn Bridge and the World Trade Center.

As of 2024, the average full-price ticket for a 15-minute ride is approximately $235, which includes the city tax (heliport fee) of approximately $35.

The 15-minute rides are the ones most often discounted.

20 MINUTE RIDE

The 20-minute helicopter rides usually follow the same route as the 15-minute options but fly further north along the Hudson River, usually to Midtown and Central Park.

As of 2024, the average full-price ticket for a 20-minute ride is approximately $280, which includes the city tax (heliport fee).

So, at full price, you are paying around an additional $50 for an extra 5 minutes in the air, but you will see a lot of Manhattan in that short time.

30 MINUTE RIDE

Likewise, the 30-minute helicopter rides usually follow the same route as the 20-minute options but fly even further north along the Hudson River.

They usually fly just past Harlem up to Yankee Stadium and the George Washington Bridge in the Bronx.

As of 2024, the average full-price ticket for a 30-minute ride is approximately $380, which includes the city tax (heliport fee).

So, at full price, you are paying around an additional $140 for an extra 10 minutes in the air compared to the 15-minute ride.

However, you will have flown the entire length of Manhattan Island

DISCOUNTS ON HELICOPTER RIDES IN NYC

Before we explain the discounts that are generally available, a quick note.

The prices just described above are for helicopter flights departing from Lower Manhattan.

There are helicopter flights that depart from several New Jersey heliports that are sometimes significantly cheaper than the identical NYC departures.

These are options to consider, especially if you are staying in NJ.

Groupon and Living Social Coupons

Coupon sites such as Groupon and Living Social usually provide several discounts on helicopter rides, usually the 15-minute versions, but occasionally the longer rides.

The offers are often from NJ heliports and there are sometimes blackout dates, so read the deals carefully before purchasing.

Tourist Attraction Discount Passes

A tourist discount pass option could also end up as a great deal.

Tourist discount passes generally work by bundling together different tours, attractions, and activities into one discounted price.

The savings can be up to 55% off of full retail prices.

The New York Turbo Pass , for example, offers 10% off the Liberty Helicopter Tour. This is a savings of about $20-$25.

These services are $249-$299 respectively, so you can expect to pay $225-$250 with this discount.

Read our post on whether or not a New York Pass is worth buying .

Military Discount

You’ll also find most companies have military and first responder discounts but you will need to contact each company to inquire about them.

List of New York Helicopter Companies

There are several helicopter tour companies with names so similar, it can easily get confusing. All of the companies have similar review profiles, which are generally good.

The experience of flying over the Big Apple is so fun, most people are happy with their experience.

However, we provide links to each company's reviews, so that you can take a closer look for yourself.

Also, we list the companies in order of lowest to highest price.

NOTE: No helicopter flights are permitted on Sundays.

There is one common thread you will see when it comes to complaints about helicopter tours: overcrowding and weight distribution problems.

Due to the way that this aircraft functions, it can sometimes be important to make sure that there is not too much weight on one side.

Because of this, you will most likely be asked to provide information about your weight before boarding, and you may also be asked to sit in a location you are not comfortable with. The more crowded a helicopter tour is, the more likely you will be asked to sit in the middle.

Unfortunately, it can be difficult to enjoy the views from the middle seat of a helicopter, so most people in this position report having a negative experience.

In order to avoid these issues, make sure to call ahead and ask the tour company about which times would be best for obtaining a window seat.

Click here to see all the options in one location .

Liberty Helicopter Tours

As you will see with most helicopter tours, this outfit has overall good reviews .

Although there aren’t many negative reviews, some comments note that passengers may be asked to sit in the middle of the aircraft in order to avoid problems with weight distribution.

That being said, most visitors have had an absolute blast with Liberty Helicopter Tours, and many reviewers have raved about the great views of NYC!

While its listed price is not the lowest on offer, with the deals available, particularly the CitySightNY deal , the Big Apple Tour is the lowest priced.

There are 2 popular public tours offered.

The Big Apple (12-15 minutes) - $269 (includes security fee)

This popular tour provides a bird's eye view of the most famous sites in New York City.

Some of the landmarks covered include Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, Freedom Tower, Empire State Building, Chrysler, Woolworth, Met Life Buildings, USS Intrepid, and Central Park. Purchase here .

Save 10% with the New York Turbo Pass .

New York, New York (18-20 minutes) - $369 (includes security fee)

Very similar to the Big Apple tour, but with an additional few sites including The Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan Bridge, The Verrazano Bridge, the George Washington Bridge, Yankee Stadium, and MetLife Stadium. Purchase here .

Need to Know

Tours ARE weather dependent . If a tour is canceled, Liberty Helicopter Tours will try to accommodate a guest's schedule to reserve a new time. If a time cannot be agreed upon, the guest will be fully reimbursed.
The helicopter can accommodate 5-6 guests plus 1 pilot.
Other than cameras, no personal items are allowed in the helicopter. Items can be left at the waiting area and lockers are available for rent at an additional fee.
Photo I.D. is required for all guests.

Manhattan Helicopters

Manhattan Helicopters also enjoys a 4 ½ out of 5-star rating on TripAdvisor, with some guests describing their experience as amazing.

As with most of these excursions, the only common complaints focus on crowded tours, which do not appear to happen very often.

According to reviewers, the pilots are very experienced, so you can rest assured that your trip will be stress-free.

Its tours are not the lowest priced tours, but like Liberty, the CitySights deal is also available for this company.

Price: $249 for Adults and Children
Ultimate Manhattan Tour (17-20 minutes) Price: $299 for Adults and Children.
Deluxe Manhattan Tour (25 - 30 minutes) Price: $389 per person. Minimum 4 person to reserve
Book your helicopter ride here . Use promo code Save10 at checkout and save 10%

New York Helicopter

This company's base tour is actually the least expensive ($23 cheaper) if you are not purchasing a combination or tourist attraction discount pass.

In addition, their 4 ½ star rating on TripAdvisor is just as good as every other service on this list.

Once again, the issue of weight distribution is a common complaint, but there isn’t much that any helicopter tour can do to avoid this problem.

New York Helicopter offers 3 popular public tours:

Similar to the base-level tours offered by the other companies, this tour includes the Statue of Liberty, Governor’s and Ellis Island, the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges, the South Street Seaport and the Wall Street Financial Center.
Purchase tickets or learn more .
Covers all that is seen on the Liberty tour, but also features the Empire State Building, Central Park, the Intrepid Air, Sea, and Space Museum, Yankee Stadium, and the George Washington Bridge.
Covers all that is seen on the Central Park Tour, in addition to the Verrazano Bridge, uptown, midtown and the downtown skyline of Manhattan and New Jersey Palisades.
Tours ARE weather dependent . If a tour is canceled, New York Helicopter Tours will try to accommodate a guest's schedule to reserve a new time. If a time cannot be agreed upon, the guest will be fully reimbursed.
There is a $45 heliport fee in addition to the cost of the tour that is made payable at time of booking.

HeliNY Tours / Helicopter Flight Service Helicopter Tours

This outfit is a little bit more expensive than the other options, but they state that they use newer and more expensive helicopters.

They are well- reviewed , but as we stated before, all the companies have relatively good reviews.

With the Smart Destinations Build-Your-Own tourist attraction pass, you could save 15 -20%. Reviewers describe their staff as attentive and helpful, providing passengers with all of the information necessary to enjoy their trip.

Other comments suggest that Helicopter Flight Services are highly organized and that their pilots are very experienced.

Most of the negative reviews complain of overcrowded trips, which may be avoided if you book your tour in advance.

Despite the higher costs, hundreds of guests have said that this helicopter ride is well worth the money.

Some reviewers suggested that you make sure to bring a camera with you in order to get your money’s worth in fantastic photographs of New York City!

There are 4 popular public tours offered:

Manhattan Highlights Tour (12-15 minutes) - $239/person + ($35 airport fees).

You will travel up the Hudson River and see iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, Freedom Tower, Chrysler Building, Empire State Building, Chelsea Piers, and the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum.

The Ultimate Tour (18-20 minutes) - $289 + ($35 airport fees).

This tour includes all the sites covered in the New Yorker Tour, in addition to views of Yankee Stadium, Central Park, Columbia University, and George Washington Bridge.

The Deluxe Tour (25-30 minutes) - $379 + ($35 airport fees).

This tour includes all the sites covered in the Ultimate Tour, in addition to Coney Island, Brooklyn and New Jersey, Grants Tomb, the Northern edge of Manhattan, and Verrazano Bridge.

Tours ARE weather dependent . If a tour is canceled, HeliNY will try to accommodate a guest's schedule to reserve a new time. If a time cannot be agreed upon, the guest will be fully reimbursed.
Reservations are not required but are encouraged.

DOWNTOWN MANHATTAN HELIPORT

All helicopter rides depart from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport at the southern tip of Manhattan between South Street Seaport and the Staten Island Ferry Terminal. This is also known as East River Pier 6, or the "Wall Street Heliport," not to be confused with the Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 6 on the other side of the river.

It is accessed within a short walking distance of many subway lines. We recommend using this Google map to get directions to the heliport .

Other popular tourist attractions in the area are the Staten Island Ferry , Wall Street , the National September 11th Memorial , skyscrapers such as the Freedom Tower (One World Trade Center), Governor's Island, the Financial District, and the Brooklyn Bridge .

What to Expect on an NYC Helicopter Ride

Going on a helicopter in New York City is quite a ride! It feels a bit like being on a fun ride at a fair when it lifts off the ground and when it lands. The helicopter can move up and down fast, which is really exciting.

Some people might feel a bit sick because of the up-and-down movement, but many think it's a great time. It can be very loud inside, but you get special headphones to keep your ears safe and hear the pilot talk about the city.

You can see all of Manhattan from the helicopter because the pilots are allowed to fly there. Sometimes, if the weather is bad, they can't fly.

The trips don't take long — just 15, 20, or 30 minutes. This means you have lots of time left to enjoy other things in the city.

Tips from the Tourists

Recommended Helicopter Tour

A fellow traveler in our Facebook Group highly recommended a specific 15-minute helicopter tour over Manhattan Island, noting it was a suggestion from other tourists and definitely worth the experience. They shared a link to a tour provider, which might offer an insightful alternative to consider when planning your aerial adventure in NYC.

Front Seat Experience

One of our Facebook Community members shared their personal experience, describing their helicopter tour over New York as an "amazing fantastic experience." They mentioned the value of securing a front seat, emphasizing that it's worth every penny for the incredible views and is a must-do activity when visiting New York.

Subway Accessibility

A member from our Facebook Community expressed their preference for activities accessible by subway, noting their reluctance toward boat rides. They mentioned that an ideal outing for them would be a short, convenient trip, possibly hinting at the value of having tourist attractions within close proximity to subway stations for ease of travel.

Nighttime Cityscapes

People in our Facebook Group love to share what they enjoy doing in New York. Many say taking the subway to Brooklyn and walking back to Manhattan at night is fun. The lights and bridges look great from there. Another good idea is to take a ferry to DUMBO and walk back. You can see a lot from the boat. These are fun ways to see the city from different places.

Westgate Hotel Stay

If you're planning your stay in New York City, here's a tip from our Facebook Group member who's just been there: They stayed at the Westgate Hotel and had a good experience. They found the hotel clean, well-decorated for the fall season, and the staff friendly. Amenities like an iron and hairdryer were available in the room. Plus, they mentioned the hotel's location is convenient – not too far from key attractions, making it a practical choice for tourists.

Cost-Effective Views

Someone in our Facebook Group said that helicopter rides in NYC are fun but cost a lot. They like the idea of a long ride but say the shorter one is better for the money. They also suggest trying City Climb at The Edge if you want a cool view for less money.

Flexible Go City Pass

A tip from our Facebook Group : using a Go City pass is flexible. You can leave when you want, not just after 2 hours. One person spent 1 hour on Liberty Island and 2 hours on Ellis Island and said they could stay longer because there's a lot to see.

Choose a Destination... I want them all PLUS general travel tips. Amsterdam Berlin Boston Charleston Chicago Dubai Lisbon London Los Angeles Miami Nashville New York City New Orleans Paris Philadelphia Prague Rome San Francisco Washington DC

About The Author

Stephen Pickhardt

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

Helicopter-travels.com

Best helicopter tours

New York helicopter tours – prices, timings, restrictions

There are three ways to see New York – by road, water, and air.

However, nothing can match the thrill of exploring New York on a helicopter tour.

From high up, you can feel the adrenaline rush by seeing all the major New York City landmarks, not to mention coming face-to-face with the Statue of Liberty.

In this article, we share everything you must know before you book your New York helicopter tour.

Top New York helicopter tours

# Big Apple Helicopter Tour # New York Manhattan Helicopter Tour # New York Grand Island Helicopter Flight

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Let’s put it out there- helicopter rides can be costly, and the tours last for a short duration.

So, it is important to know the tour costs in advance to plan your trip and factor it in with other considerations.

But if you are a curious explorer, a New York City helicopter tour is worth every penny.

The cheapest New York helicopter ride will cost approximately US$229 per person.

It is also the most popular tour of the Big Apple.

And at the higher end, the tickets can go up to US$363 per person.

Prices of helicopter flights in New York depend on three factors.

Amount of time you spend in the air
The time of flight. For instance, night flights tend to be more expensive.
If the helicopter ride is part of a combo tour. For example, a cruise around the Statue of Liberty.

If you are looking for a cheap helicopter ride in New York, look no further than this 15-minute tour over NYC.

If you want the best New York skyline helicopter tour, check out this 30-minute flight over Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Staten Island .

Helicopter rides in New York

Here is our selection of the best helicopter tours in the “concrete jungle.”

Once you have all the information, click on the ‘Book This Tour’ link to go ahead and make the purchase.

For helicopter tours with high demand, the booking confirmation happens as soon as you purchase.

For other helicopter tours, you will get the confirmation within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The Big Apple Helicopter Tour is the cheapest and the most popular helicopter tour to explore Manhattan and the rest of New York.

During this 15-minute trip, you will see the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, the sprawling Central Park, and the rest of the New York skyline.

As you fly over the Hudson River, you will also come face-to-face with the Statue of Liberty.

During the tour, a knowledgeable pilot will provide fascinating live commentary, sharing insights into the history of NYC.

This tour is sometimes called the New York Statue of Liberty helicopter tour .

Cost of the tour (2+ years): US$229 per person

*If you are looking for a helicopter flight with a little more focus on Manhattan views, check out the 15-minute-long Manhattan Sky tour .

The New York Manhattan Helicopter Tour is a 20-minute flight over the Manhattan skies.

You fly past Wall Street and Ground Zero and catch a glimpse of the Empire State Building, Chrysler Buildings, Statue of Liberty, Governor’s Island, etc., for a memorable city tour.

You will also go over Times Square, Madison Square Garden, Central Park, and more.

Cost of the tour (2+ years) : US$279 per person

*If you want another option for a 20-minute flight over NYC, check out the Complete New York Helicopter ride .

The New York Grand Island Helicopter Flight is a 30-minute helicopter tour over the city, where you get to see spectacular views of the city’s five boroughs.

On this Grand Island helicopter ride, you see the usual sights of Manhattan, New York, and more.

Sports fans love this tour because it also passes over Yankee Stadium.

If it is your first visit to New York, it is a great way to explore the city.

Cost of the tour (2+ years) : US$363 per person

*Another 30-minute tour we recommend is the Helicopter Tour of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Staten Island .

A helicopter tour of NYC at night is one of the most beautiful tours because it helps you see the New York skyline when it is all lit up at night.

The late evening takeoffs make it just the right New York helicopter tour for two, especially if you are a romantic couple.

Fly over the illuminated Statue of Liberty, the Rockefeller Center, National 9/11 Memorial & Museum, Times Square, George Washington Bridge, and much more.

This tour takes off from Linden Airport, which is 37 Km (23 Miles) from Manhattan.

Cost of the tour (2+ years) : US$274 per person

The New York to Niagara Falls by helicopter tour lasts the whole day.

A 45-minute flight takes you from the airport to the waterfalls, where you enjoy the otherworldly sight not only from the sky but also on a cruise on the legendary Maid of the Mist.

Soak in the fresh air as you take a stroll in the NY State Park and visit the city’s various aerospace and science museums, casinos, observatories, and more.

A surprise element of this tour is a two-course lunch (vegetarian option available) with unlimited soft drinks at the Hard Rock Café Niagara.

Even after all these memorable activities, you will have some spare time to yourself, which you can spend as you want before making your way back to New York.

Hotel transfers are included in this package.

Cost of the tour

Adult ticket (12+ years): US$874 per head Child ticket (2 to 11 years): US$860 per head Infant ticket (1 year and younger): US$260 per head

Almost all New York helicopter rides start from Downtown Manhattan Heliport .

Address: 6 East River Piers, New York, NY 10004, USA.

It is also known as the Wall Street Heliport.

Since the heliport is in Manhattan, one doesn’t end up wasting air time because the moment you are airborne, you start seeing sweeping views of the city.

If you book a nighttime helicopter tour of New York , the takeoff will be from Linden Airport .

Address: 1101 W Edgar Rd, Linden, NJ 07036, USA.

We recommend arriving at the heliport 30-45 minutes before your scheduled helicopter tour.

Niagara Falls heli ride begins in one of the three local airports:

Address: JFK Airport, Queens, NY 11430, United States. Get directions .

Address: La Guardia, Queens, NY 11371, United States. Get directions .

Address: Newark International, 3 Brewster Rd, Newark, NJ 07114, United States. Get directions .

You must arrive at least 2 hours before flight departure time

All NYC heli tours end back at the meeting point.

To reach Downtown Manhattan Heliport , follow the Google Maps navigation route, as all the other navigation options will take you to Chelsea Piers.

The heliport is located on Pier 6 (2 Building North of Staten Island ferry and the East River). Look for Zip Aviation.

To reach Linden Airport , drive to Linden Airport or take a train from NY Penn Station via NJ Transit.

Roundtrip tickets are US$17 per person.

Take the Trenton (Northeast Corridor) Line or the Long Branch (North Jersey Coast) Line to Linden Train station.

Day heli tours in New York are operational from Monday to Saturday.

No helicopters hover over New York on Sunday – it is a holiday.

Big Apple helicopter tour takes off from 9 am to 5.30 pm.

New York Manhattan helicopter tour operates from 9 am to 6.30 pm.

New York Grand Island helicopter flight runs from 9 am to 6 pm.

NYC Night heli tour is not operational on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and welcomes guests from 6 pm to 9.30 pm from Thursday to Monday.

Niagara Falls helicopter ride from New York is a one-day tour taking place every day.

During major holidays, the hours may vary, but that gets communicated at the time of booking.

You will have different time slots to choose from, depending on the tour you pick.

Inclusions in the price

Besides a ride in a state-of-the-art helicopter with a cabin with climate control, you also get free inflight narration.

If different passengers request more than two languages on the same flight, the audio commentary defaults to English.

All local taxes and service fees are part of the tour cost.

Depending on the tour you opt for, there may be additional inclusions.

For instance, if you book the helicopter tour with the Statue of Liberty cruise , tickets to the 1-hour Statue of Liberty Express cruise are also included.

Generally, tourist helicopters are either four-seaters or six-seaters.

Depending on the tour you opt for and the number of passengers booked on the helicopter ride, you may get a four or a six-seater.

Therefore, sometimes a minimum of two and sometimes four passengers are required for the heli tour to be confirmed.

Weight limits apply for safe and comfortable New York helicopter rides.

Passengers exceeding the weight limit are required to purchase an additional seat at 100% of the retail price.

A minimum and maximum number of passengers are required on these tours, failing which, it will be canceled.

Infants and children are allowed onboard, but infants must sit on the caregiver’s lap throughout the flight.

A valid passport is required.

No pets are allowed onboard except service animals.

Guests with heart problems or other serious medical conditions must contact their doctor before taking NYC helicopter tours.

Parents must also carry the kid’s proof of age.

All passengers must be willing to walk through a metal detector

All bags will go through the security.

Flight times are approximate based on winds, weights, and conditions.

Seating arrangements may often be in the hands of the tour organizers for a safe and stable flight.

Note: Before takeoff, the pilot and the ground staff will ensure the passengers’ weight is distributed evenly in the helicopter. To achieve this balance, they may even seat you in the middle. Sitting in the middle may affect your view, but not so much as to risk your safety.

Exclusions of the air tours

Most of these tour prices have standard exclusions, such as –

Gratuities (which are optional)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
The heliport fee US$40 per person (payable at the time of the tour)
Souvenir photos
Fuel surcharge

However, some tours may include one of the above. For example, the New York Helicopter tour at night includes the heliport fee as well as the fuel surcharge costs.

You will find it mentioned on the tour booking page if any of these is included in the helicopter tour price.

New York heli rides are completely accessible to guests with disabilities.

The aircraft, transportation, and surfaces are completely wheelchair accessible, preventing any inconvenience for the guests.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your tour date.

If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, a 100% percent cancellation fee is applicable.

No changes are allowed within 24 hours of the experience’s start time.

Helicopter tours require good weather.

If the tour is canceled due to poor weather or non-fulfillment of the minimum number of passengers, you may be offered a different date or a full refund.

Here are some questions visitors usually ask before taking a New York heli tour.

The cost can vary widely depending on the duration, time, and season of the tour, facilities like hotel transfers and food and drinks, add-ons, customizations, the tour provider, and the package. Private tours can cost significantly more as they are more tailor-made and personalized experiences where you have a whole aircraft to yourself.

Liberty Helicopter Tours , HeliNY , Manhattan Helicopters , and Flynyon are often highly rated for the helicopter tours they offer in and around New York City.

Most helicopter tours last between 15 and 30 minutes. However, some may offer extended tours lasting up to a whole day.

Booking in advance is usually recommended, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Some tours might require booking a few weeks in advance.

The number of participants in a helicopter tour in NYC will depend on the size of the helicopter, but many tours can accommodate between 4 to 6 passengers.

Reputable helicopter companies adhere to strict safety regulations, including regular maintenance checks, safety briefings before each flight, and ensuring pilots are well-trained and licensed.

The best time depends on personal preference. Some prefer morning for the soft lighting, while others prefer afternoon for the bright, clear views. Some choose the evening for a sunset or night view.

This depends on the helicopter tour company. Some tours might be flexible with their routes, while others will have a set path.

All pilots operating commercial helicopter tours in New York should be properly licensed and trained. Most companies will provide information about their pilots’ experience.

English is standard in all heli tours in New York, and some companies might have guides who speak other languages. It’s best to check in advance.

Yes, taking photos or videos is usually allowed and encouraged. However, selfie sticks and large camera equipment may not be permitted for safety reasons.

While there’s usually no specific dress code for a helicopter tour , it’s recommended that you dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Loose items like hats and scarves might need to be removed for safety reasons. Footwear should be comfortable and secure as you will be climbing in and out of the helicopter.

Yes, usually, companies provide headphones to all passengers. These often serve the dual purpose of reducing noise from the helicopter’s rotor blades and allowing passengers to hear information from the pilot during the tour.

It’s typically recommended that passengers arrive at least 30 minutes to 45 minutes before their scheduled New York heli tours. This allows for check-in, safety briefings, and any last-minute instructions.

Helicopter Tour New York City - 15 Minutes

Tours depart Manhattan NY. Best Price in NYC Guarantee!

Gaze out a helicopter’s window toward NYC landmarks including the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge and more!

Description

Helicopter Tour NYC

Our Helicopter Tour NYC is easily the best New York Helicopter Tour available. New York City's BEST VALUE Helicopter Tour takes off from the Manhattan Heliport in lower Manhattan and includes all heliport fees and fuel surcharge costs. In other words there is no more to pay. During this New York City helicopter tour you will fly above all the famous New York landmarks including the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge and more so make sure you bring a camera.

The unique New York City skyline makes this tour a must for any visitor. Don’t stay grounded amid the infamous New York traffic, take to the skies for an unforgettable Helicopter Tour of New York .

Book your Helicopter Tour NYC today!

Had a great experience. Totally worth the money!

The pilot was very nice and made me have a great birthday!!

The staff were very welcoming.

Great Experience!

If u got a bucket list u better get on the Adrenaline helicopter tour. Scene was amazing from up high and completely comfortable ride

Experience Details

Fitness and experience.

Please be sure to inform us of any relevant medical conditions at the time of booking so we may accommodate you
Maximum weight per passenger is 275 lbs; no seat belt extender is offered
Children under 2 years of age must sit in an adults lap at no charge

What to Bring/Wear

Wear loose comfortable clothing, suitable to the weather on the day
Sunglasses are a good idea as the glare off the clouds can be quite bright
A camera and/or video camera are highly recommended

What is Supplied

Helicopter Tour NYC (approximately 12-15 minutes)
Knowledgeable and experienced pilot
Stunning city views

More Information

Children under 2 years old ride free on their guardian's lap with proof of age (Please bring birth certificate)
Tours are available Monday to Friday 12:00pm to 3:30pm and Saturday 10:00am to 4:00pm
Paid parking is available at Whitehall and Water St.
You will be sharing the helicopter with other tour passengers
Please note your tour will be in either a Bell 407, Bell 427, Airbus EC130, or Airbus EC155 helicopter

All staff and passengers will be required to wear masks on our premises, including during the flight. If you don’t have a mask, we’ll provide it for you.

Available Dates

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10 Best NYC Helicopter Tours (Day, Night, Private, Doors Off, & More)

By: Author Charles

Posted on August 29, 2023

10 Best NYC Helicopter Tours (Day, Night, Private, Doors Off, & More)

This overview will lay out the best NYC helicopter tours to take part of while visiting the city. Whether you are looking for standard skyline tours, night tours, doors off, or a private experience, the list will cover it all and more.

When it comes to experiences in New York City, there are few that can compete with seeing the city as part of a helicopter tour.

If it is the Manhattan skyline, Central Park, the Hudson & East Rivers, Statue of Liberty, or Brooklyn Bridge, a heli tour will have you seeing them all and much more.

Picking a helicopter tour over New York City can be an overwhelming decision. This list is here to simplify the options & better help you pick the best tour for your visit.

Read on for list of the top tours and some helpful things to know along the way.

* Affiliate Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the work I put into TripTins!

Top NYC Helicopter Tour Picks

Are you looking to make a quick & easy decision when it comes to picking the helicopter tour that is best for you? Check out these highly rated top picks that you just cannot go wrong with.

All Around Helicopter Tour

Looking for the best value overall tour? This NYC Helicopter Tour offers three options including 15, 20, & 30 minute flight times around the city

Private Helicopter Tour

Do you want to have a more private experience? You can opt for a Romantic Couples Tour or this helicopter option that allows up to 6 people.

Nighttime Helicopter Tour

For a New York City nighttime experience, this Night Helicopter Tour is the way to go. Seeing the skyline all lit up is going to be a top experience!

New York City Helicopter Tour Overview

One of the main issues I came across when researching NYC helicopter tours is that there are so many different options to choose from. They all seem very similar with little to distinguish between them all.

The purpose of this list is to simplify the options for you.

Instead of listing out all the tours from all the companies, I have chosen the highest rated helicopter tours in a few different main categories.

The goal is to have no complexity and no confusion. Simply book the type of tour that interests you most and be on your way!

To start, below is a high-level view of the New York helicopter tours I will talk more about in this overview.

New York City All Around Helicopter Tour (#1, #2, #3)

This All Around NYC Helicopter Tour gives you three different options when it comes to amount of flying time & the attractions you will see along the way. Depending on interest & budget will dictate which option you end up choosing.

These tours depart from downtown Manhattan, making it an easy and convenient helicopter ride to take part of.

The New Yorker Tour (12-15 minutes)
The Ultimate Tour (17-20 minutes)
The Deluxe Tour (25-30 minutes)

NYC City Lights Helicopter Tour (#4)

For those that want to take part of a nighttime experience, then the City Lights Helicopter Tour is a top option out there. This is offered as a 25 minute tour departing from New Jersey.

NYC Doors Off Helicopter Tour (#5)

If you are looking to dangle your feet outside of the helicopter, then this Doors Off Helicopter Tour is for you. There are 16 minute and 30 minute options to choose from that depart from New Jersey.

Private NYC Helicopter Tour (#6, #7, #8)

While the options above are all group tours, there are also options for a private NYC helicopter experience. Here are three in particular that take off from nearby Westchester (transport can be included when booking):

Private Helicopter Tour for Couples
Private Helicopter Tour for Up to 6 People
Private Helicopter Tour for Marriage Proposal

Hudson Valley Foliage Helicopter Tour (#9)

Throughout the month of October, the Hudson Valley comes to life as the leaves turn to colors of orange, red, and yellow.

This Hudson Valley Foliage Helicopter Tour takes people high above the Hudson, as you get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding foliage.

Helicopter Piloting Experience (#10 )

Lastly is this Helicopter Piloting Experience , which is more than just a helicopter ride. Instead you will go through an instructional course with a pilot and then get to take control of the chopper and fly for 30 minutes.

#1, #2, #3: New York City All-Inclusive Helicopter Tour

Rating : 5 / 5 Stars
Flight Duration : 12 – 30 Minutes
Price : $239 – $379
Time : 9:00AM – 6:00PM
Departure : Pier 6, Manhattan
Booking : Check Rates & Availability

When it comes to NYC helicopter tours, most people simply want to sit back, take some photos, and enjoy the landmarks of the city from above.

The issue is that there are so many tours out there that do this exact thing but just name their tours differently.

So, instead of reading through everything out there, I figured I just mention the highest rated NYC helicopter tour to choose from.

With a near perfect 5-star rating and over 3,000 reviews, you just cannot go wrong with this All in One NYC Helicopter Tour .

When you go about the booking, you will see that there are three different options to choose from. These include:

The New Yorker Tour : 12-15 minutes ($239)
The Ultimate Tour : 17-20 minutes ($289)
The Deluxe Tour : 25-30 minutes ($379)

Now, you may be asking yourself what is the difference between these three tours. While the durations and prices are different, so are some of the main attractions that they visit. The below sections will talk through the main differences, along with helpful maps.

NYC Helicopter Tour: Book Today

12-15 Minute Helicopter Tour

For starters, the 12-15 minute tour will include all of the following (and more!):

Brooklyn Bridge

Statue of Liberty
Ellis Island

One World Trade Center

Chrysler Building

Empire State Building

Chelsea Piers

Times Square

The Intrepid

Central Park

While 15 minutes is quick, the helicopter tour still gets you to many of the top highlights that the city has to offer. All the way down from the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor up to Central Park in Upper Manhattan, the tour covers a lot of air while taking in some beautiful views along the way.

17-20 Minute Helicopter Tour

Now, while 5 minutes doesn’t sound like too much extra time, a bunch more NYC attractions can be seen by opting for this longer option.

In addition to everything mentioned on the 12-15 tour, this 17-20 minute tour will also include:

Columbia University
Grant’s Tomb
Yankee Stadium
The Palisades
George Washington Bridge
Northern Tip of Manhattan

Essentially the tour heads further north past Central Park and towards the Bronx, as you get a more wholistic view of NYC and its skyline.

25-30 Minute Helicopter Tour

For those that want to take full advantage of an NYC helicopter tour, then the 25-30 minute is your best bet. Although the most expensive, it is also the most expansive.

This means you will get to spend a bit more time hovering above at each attraction in addition to some more highlights.

The 25-30 minute tour includes all the highlights already mentioned in addition to the Verrazano Bridge and the borough of Brooklyn.

It is the only tour that heads further out into New York Harbor, which is bound to give you more wholistic views of the NYC skyline looking northbound.

To get a better sense of attractions, the chart below lays it all out for you. It is important to note that these are just a subset of landmarks you will get to see.

Odds are that plenty more of New York City will be surrounding you during the duration of your flight.

Book Today : Be sure to book your NYC Helicopter Tour ahead of time and reserve your spot on any of the 15, 20, or 30 minute rides!

#4: NYC City Lights Helicopter Tour at Night

Flight Duration : 25-30 Minutes
Price : $274
Time : 7:30PM – 8:30PM
Departure : Linden Airport, New Jersey

While seeing the NYC skyline during the day is one thing, seeing it at night can be a whole other experience.

Once the sun sets, the skyscrapers and landmarks light up, which creates a new perspective to take in New York City.

And what better way to see the city at night than to take part of this NYC City Lights Helicopter Tour .

With this tour, you will get a very similar experience to the 25-30 minute day time tour. The main difference here is that the daytime tour departs from Manhattan and the night tour departs from Linden Airport in New Jersey.

Even with the NJ departure, you will still get to take in NYC from New York Harbor, all the way up to the Bronx. Taking in those bright lights of Times Square, the colorful landmark buildings, and the rest of NYC is something that is just tough to beat.

Although it is a further out journey to get to the departure point, the helicopter ride is actually cheaper. So, if you want to get a similar experience, see the city at night , and save some money, then the night tour could be for you.

Note : Linden Airport can easily be reached by the NJ Transit followed by a quick taxi/Uber ride. The quickest routes take just about 45 minutes.

NYC Night Heli Tour: Book Today

#5: Doors Off NYC Helicopter Tour

Rating : 4 / 5 Stars
Flight Duration : 16 or 30 Minutes
Price : ~$500 – $800
Time : 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Departure : Kearny, New Jersey

All of the helicopter tours mentioned on this list are standard doors on experiences. While the doors on rides have large floor to ceiling windows, you can take it to a whole new level with this Doors Off NYC Helicopter Tour .

The doors off helicopter tour is exactly what it sounds like. Instead of having closed doors up in the air, you will be able to have an open-air cabin.

This will allow you to not have any glass out in front of you and it can give you the option to dangle your legs outside of the helicopter.

While a doors on ride can be a thrilling experience on its own, a doors off ride is only for those that are ready for a true adrenaline rush over NYC.

As you go about booking, be sure you select the doors off option as the company also offers doors on rides as well.

Note : The Kearny, NJ departure point can easily be reached by the NJ Transit followed by a quick bus or Uber ride. The quickest routes take just about 45 minutes.

NYC Helicopter Doors Off Tour: Book Today

#6: Private NYC Helicopter Tour for 6 People

Flight Duration : 30 or 45 Minutes
Price : $1,550 or $2,200
Time : 10:00AM – 8:30PM
Departure : Westchester County Airport

Up next are some options for those that want to enjoy a more private experience altogether. This can also be great for those that are traveling with a larger group of people.

Departing from Westchester County Airport, this Private Helicopter Tour for up to 6 people offers the chance to see the city on your own, without any additional people joining your group.

While Westchester may seem far, it is actually pretty easy to get to. This can be done by an hour drive or a 75 minute train + Uber. When going about the booking, there is also an option to include a private transfer from NYC to make things easier.

Since the private tour comes in from Westchester, the first part of the flight will be flying southbound as the city skyline continues to be seen in the distance. This will give you a new perspective of NYC that other tours won’t offer.

The 30 minute ride will focus on all of the various highlights up to midtown Manhattan. This essentially means that it wont go south of the Empire State Building.

During a flight though, you will still get to see the skyline, Central Park, George Washington Bridge, and plenty more.

If you want to get all the way down to the Statue of Liberty and One World Trade Center, then the 45 minute flight will need to be chosen. You will get the most comprehensive tour with this option as everything from downtown to uptown Manhattan will be covered.

Private Helicopter Tour: Book Today

#7 & #8: NYC Private Helicopter Tour for Couples

Price : $800 or $1,100

This Private Helicopter Tour for Couples is the same exact layout as the tour mentioned above. Instead of maxing out at 6 people, this tour is just for 2 people.

With this two person option, you will find the prices to be much cheaper and not wildly far off from booking two people on a shared helicopter.

Similarly, there is a 30 minute option that heads down to midtown Manhattan and a 45 minute ride option that makes its way all the way down to New York Harbor.

So, if you are looking for a romantic NYC helicopter tour for two, it doesn’t get much better than this.

Marriage Proposal Option : Looking to propose over NYC? You can opt for this special Marriage Proposal Helicopter Tour that includes a private ride, photographer, illuminated sign, and more.

NYC Couples Heli Tour: Book Today

#9: Hudson Valley Fall Foliage Helicopter Tour

Price : $330 or $475
Time : 10:00AM – 4:00PM

Now, while the all the helicopter tours on this list are focused on NYC, this Fall Foliage Helicopter Tour is focused on the Hudson Valley.

Starting in the beginning of October, the leaves around New York City slowly begin to change color. Instead of a greenery filled landscape, the leaves turn to shades of red, orange, and yellow.

And although Fall foliage in NYC is a great time to visit the city, the Hudson Valley takes it to a whole new level. The nature filled landscape goes on for miles and miles with never-ending foliage surrounding the Hudson.

The Hudson Foliage Tour can also be done as part of a 30 minute or 45 minute option.

The main highlights include Castle on Hudson, Harriman State Park, Bear Mountain , West Point, and plenty others. With the 45 minute tour, you will also get to see Bannerman Castle and Dick’s Castle.

So, if you want the perfect combination of a helicopter ride and foliage viewing, then this will be the option to choose.

Timing Note : in general, mid October is when the foliage will be at its best along the Hudson.

Foliage Helicopter Tour: Book Today

#10: NYC Helicopter Piloting Experience

Flight Duration : 30 or 60 Minutes
Price : $560 or $985
Time : 10:00AM – 2:00PM

Do you want to combine a helicopter tour with actually piloting the helicopter on your own? Well, this NYC Helicopter Piloting Experience may then be for you.

Instead of just going on a tour, this is going to give you 1 on 1 time to learn with a pilot instructor and then head up in the air to fly.

The day will start out with 30 minutes of instruction as you learn the ins and outs of the helicopter controls, systems, and procedures. From there, you will take off with your pilot and have the chance to actually fly the helicopter with some supportive help.

It is important to note that flight lessons are not permitted over New York City. So, this experience will just focus in on Westchester County north of NYC. Although you won’t get to enjoy the highlights & attractions as you would on a normal helicopter ride, there will still be views of the NYC skyline out in the distance.

You will have the chance to choose between 30 minute and 60 minute flight options depending on how long you want to spend up in the sky learning. Also note that 1 guest is allowed to join in on the helicopter ride as well.

Flights leave from Westchester County Airport so you can either opt to pay for the private transfer or head there on your own.

NYC Piloting Tour: Book Today

Important Things to Know

Before you head out on that helicopter flight over NYC, be sure to read up on some important things to know.

What To Bring : while each tour may be slightly different, expect to only bring what can fit in your pockets, in addition to a camera & sunglasses. Bags and other items can be left in lockers prior to the flight.

Weather : if the weather turns for the worse, it is possible that flights can be cancelled. Be sure to leave some flexibility in your schedule so you can hop onto a rescheduled flight.

Flight Path : due to regulations set by the City of New York, helicopters are not allowed to fly directly over NYC. However, the flights will follow the coastline along the East River, New York Harbor, and Hudson River. Given the elevation of the helicopter, you are still sure to get remarkable views of the city from above.

Elevation : speaking of elevation, expect the flights to be around 1,500 feet to 2,000 feet above sea level. This will give you the chance to fully appreciate all that NYC has to offer.

Passenger Seating : most helicopters have seating for 6 people (plus the pilot). One seat will be next to the pilot, and then 5 seats in the back (2 backward / 3 forward). Your seating arrangement will depend on the weights of the passengers to balance the heli.

Arrival Time : be sure to pay close attention to the requested arrival time. Before the flight, there will be some time for check in, lockers, and introduction.

Departure Point : also, be aware of the departure points of these various tours. These can be in downtown Manhattan (Pier 6), New Jersey (Linden or Kearny), or Westchester (Westchester County Airport).

NYC Helicopter Tour Attractions & Highlights

When it comes to attractions and highlights of NYC helicopter tours, there will be an endless list out there. Since you will have such a high vantage point over the city, the views will be expansive in all directions.

But there are some landmarks that you should get up and close to, as you take in panoramas that few others get to see. Here is a list of the best of them.

Located in the East River is the world-famous Brooklyn Bridge that connects downtown Manhattan with downtown Brooklyn.

The bridge is an iconic structure with its suspension cables and limestone towers standing tall.

In addition to the Brooklyn Bridge, the nearby Manhattan Bridge and even Williamsburg Bridge should be in view during a helicopter ride.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

Within New York Harbor you will find two small islands – one houses the Statue of Liberty while the second has Ellis Island.

Getting to see the Statue of Liberty from above, with the city skyline out back is surely going to be a special experience to take part of.

For those that want to get up close and personal to these landmarks, be sure to head on a NYC Dinner Cruise !

While the entirety of the NYC skyline will be seen from a variety of angles throughout these helicopter rides, one building stands tall in downtown Manhattan – One World Trade.

This tower is the tallest in the city and its floor to ceiling glass, makes it one of the most sleek buildings out there.

You can also head on up to the top on your own by visiting the One World Observatory .

Perhaps the most well known landmark in NYC is the Empire State Building . Located in midtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building stands tall with its multi level observation deck up top.

Surrounding the Empire State Building will be other landmarks such as The Edge, One Vanderbilt, the Chrysler Building, among others.

In the heart of Manhattan is Times Square. With its bright lights and massive billboards, it is one of the most happening spots in all of NYC.

Getting to see the action from a bird’s eye view is going to be a special experience to take part of.

For those that want to wake up with a view, check out the best hotels in Times Square .

For me, it doesn’t get much better than the 843 acre Central Park located between 59 th Street and 110 th Streets.

The park is full of trees, water features, walking paths, lawns, and plenty more to explore by foot.

But getting to see the park from above with the skyline out back is something only an NYC helicopter tour can offer.

Other Highlights

The highlights just go on and on though. Some other top spots to look out for during a visit include: Madison Square Garden, George Washington Bridge , Yankee Stadium, Flatiron Building, Chelsea Piers, South Street Seaport , and just so much more.

I have a hard time believing you won’t enjoy this one of kind experience when visiting NYC.

NYC Helicopter Tour Questions Answered

To finish up this overview, here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions when it comes to New York helicopter tours.

How Much Does a NYC Helicopter Tour Cost?

This really depends on the type of tour you opt for. However, for the more standard tours out there, expect to pay between $239 and $389 for a ride that lasts anywhere between 15-30 minutes.

If you opt for some other more unique experiences, such as a private flight, then this price can go up.

What Is the Best Time for a Helicopter Tour in Manhattan?

While you can’t go wrong with a helicopter tour, in my opinion, the ideal time for a helicopter tour is around sunset.

Most of the tours allow you to pick a specific time slot that range from early morning to early evening. Some of the later ones (depending on time of year), can overlap with sunset.

Seeing the sun set over NYC with the sky changing colors will just make the experience that much more special.

So, if you are able to work it in, try to opt for that sunset ride!

Where Do NYC Helicopter Tours Leave From?

In general, there are four main helipads that NYC helicopter tours leave from. These include:

Pier 6 in Downtown Manhattan
Kearny, New Jersey
Linden Airport, New Jersey
Westchester Regional Airport

Be sure to pay close attention to the departure point and leave yourself enough time for travel to the starting point.

Is a NYC Helicopter Worth It?

If seeing the city from above is of interest to you, then there is little doubt that an NYC helicopter tour is worth it.

Getting to see the skyline from 2,000 feet up in the air is something that just cannot be matched. While observation decks get you up there, it is no match for helicopters that take you around the perimeter of NYC.

Having the chance to see just so many landmarks from up close, and getting a variety of skyline views at every moment, will make an NYC helicopter tour one of the best decisions you make during a trip.

That wraps up an overview to the best NYC helicopter tours. If you have any questions or comments, be sure to add them in below.

Also, don’t forget to check out the other New York itineraries and guides up on the site.

Have fun out there and safe travels!

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Helicopter Ride NYC: 10 Best Helicopter Tours In New York

By: Author Mark and Kristen Morgan

Posted on Published: May 13, 2021 - Last updated: October 20, 2023

Categories North America Travel Blog

Helicopter Ride NYC: 10 Best Helicopter Tours In New York

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?

One World Trade Center dominating the lower manhattan skyline from above in a HeliNY tour

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

Statue of Liberty from above on a luxury tour over Manhattan from a HeliNY ride

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?

Skyscrapers in Midtown Manhattan along the Hudson River

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?

Aerial view of Governors Island with surrounding Hudson River

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

Two helicopters with blades not spinning on Pier 6 helipad in New York City

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?

Empire State Building and Midtown Manhattan view from the sky

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?

Woman sitting in a chopper looking at views of Midtown and Lower Manhattan

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?

Edge Hudson Yards, Midtown Manhattan and Central Park from above in a HeliNY chopper

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

Birds eye view over Manhattan and one world trade center with HeliNY

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?

Edge and Hudson Yards development complex in Midtown Manhattan

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.

Where Are Those Morgans flying over NYC with Heli NY

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

Manhattan skyline with soccer pitch in hudson river and tunnel vent

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)

Chopper tour by HeliNY flying high above the New York skyline

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

Chopper flying over the Hudson River in New York City with Zip Aviation

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)

Sunset views over Lower Manhattan from a chopper in nyc

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)

Doors off chopper experience with feet hanging over Central Park

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

Chopper flying over the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island

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

FlyNYON chopper near the Empire State Building

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

Zip Aviation Manhattan Sky Tour flying high over the skyscrapers of New York City

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

Wings Air Chopper flying high over Central Park in Winter

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

Two choppers sitting in a garage for Wings Air Helicopters company

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

Downtown Manhattan seen from above and out in the bay

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!

New York City Guidebook by Where Are Those Morgans

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
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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.

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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New York Helicopter Tours: Tickets and Prices

Flying over Manhattan and enjoying a bird's eye view of its buildings is an experience you have to do at least once in your life.

Alex Grande

New York Helicopter Tours: Tickets and Prices

Taking a helicopter ride over New York is definitely the experience you have to talk about when you return from your trip to New York. Get ready to admire the city's majestic skyscrapers from their very height and fly over the Big Apple.

Most tours last around 15 minutes, but there are some differences between them . I'll tell you all about them to make it easier for you to choose the right one for you.

New York City Essential Helicopter Tour

A bird's-eye view of Manhattan at the best price

Perfect if you want to enjoy the exclusive experience of flying over Manhattan by helicopter without breaking the bank. You will see the Brooklyn Bridge, the New York Skyline and the Statue of Liberty.

This is the short option of the New York City helicopter tour, although it includes all the main sights of Manhattan. The flight departs from the Downtown heliport and will take you to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island . You will have spectacular views of Ground Zero , the One World Observatory and Manhattan's most popular skyscrapers, such as the Empire State Building.

You'll also see Brooklyn and the Brooklyn Bridge , which you'll get to see up close.

Why I like this tour : On this tour you'll see the essential sights of Manhattan and although it may seem a little shorter, you won't miss anything.

Recommended if ... you want to enjoy the experience without spending too much.

New York City Extended Helicopter Tour

Extend your trip a bit longer to get into Manhattan

The best option to enjoy a more complete tour in which you will fly over the Hudson up to the height of Times Square and the famous Madison Square Garden.

If you don't mind spending a little more, this is the best value for money itinerary, as you can enjoy the sights of New York at a more leisurely pace. In 20 minutes, you'll have time to make the round trip around Manhattan via Madison Square Garden . You will reach the height of Times Square , which will give you a better view of Central Park , the Chrysler Building and other areas of Midtown .

Please note that for safety reasons, the helicopter cannot fly between Manhattan buildings, so the tour follows the Hudson River . Still, the views are breathtaking.

Why I like this tour : 20 minutes will give you more time to savor the experience and allow you to get closer to the most relevant points of interest in Midtown.

Recommended if ... you want to enjoy the experience and don't mind spending a little more.

Other helicopter flight options over New York City

In addition to the more classic helicopter tours of New York, there are more sophisticated proposals and if you can afford them, they will be unforgettable:

If flying over Manhattan is not enough for you, you can opt for a long helicopter tour , in which you will also pass through the five boroughs: Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx and Staten Island . You will have approximately 30 minutes of flight time and you will get a much more complete souvenir of New York from the air.

And if what you want is also an exclusive and VIP experience , you can hire a private helicopter tour of New York . This flight is designed for you to share with your partner or travel companions (up to 5 passengers) and together with your pilot guide, you can spend about 30 minutes in the air while you enjoy the landmarks of New York and enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne .

We compare the options

Fly over Manhattan and the five boroughs

A long duration tour over the Big Apple and more! See Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx and Staten Island from the sky.

An exclusive and private experience

Enjoy a private tour with your companion or small group, accompanied by a pilot guide. New York at your feet and just for you.

Why is it worth taking a helicopter tour over New York?

The city's skyline is a spectacle in itself, even more so from a helicopter flight over New York. Moreover, it is a unique experience, in which the wonderful views come together with the adrenaline of flying in a helicopter over New York at more than 200 kilometers per hour.

Book your helicopter flight over New York

Information about helicopter flights in New York City

Helicopter model.

The helicopter used by most operators for the New York helicopter tour is the Eurocopter/Airbus AS350B2 , recognizable by its red color. Extended duration flights and VIP flights use the Bell 206L4 and Bell 407GX.

Most tours work with two operators: Liberty Helicopters and Zip Aviation . Both companies have passed strict safety certifications and apply them to all their experiences, which vary only in duration and route. These are closed helicopter flights in which you will not be able to lean out of the window or get out of the aircraft at any time.

All the helicopter tours I have recommended are perfectly safe , and I have made sure that they are organized by operators who have a series of safety certificates.

It is important to note that on the helicopter flight in New York, you will not fly over buildings. All routes follow the Hudson River and some follow the East River to give you panoramic views of the city, but in no case will you see the skyscrapers up close.

Special Christmas flight

If you spend Christmas in New York , one of the things you want to do is to see the Christmas lights. How about doing it from the air? This time of year you can book a helicopter flight to see the Christmas lights from New Jersey for a unique experience.

What you should know before booking

How are seats distributed on the flight.

Seats are assigned according to the weight of the passengers , which should be evenly distributed in the helicopter. They will not be final until the moment of the flight, as each person's belongings must be taken into account. For this reason, you cannot choose your seat on the flight, although you can communicate your preference to the operator.

How many people can fit in a helicopter?

5 to 6 people , not including the pilot. Tour operators can organize groups of up to 9 people, and make a distribution in two groups at the time of the helicopter flight over New York.

How does the booking work?

When you book, you purchase a voucher that is valid for the duration of your stay in New York and has an indicative date and time. Once you are in New York, you will need to reconfirm with the operator by calling their US number (which will appear on your voucher).

Once you purchase your voucher, you will be given instructions on how to set the date and time of your tour with the operator. If you have any problems or do not speak the language, Hellotickets can contact the operator and confirm for you.

How do I contact the operator?

You can do this from the hotel or contact Hellotickets to do it for you. Therefore, I recommend that you make the reservation for the first day you arrive in New York, and then set the date that suits you best with the operator. This way, you will have a margin to do the tour in case of bad weather.

Can I choose my flight time?

For most flights, once you have booked, you confirm with the operator a day and they will suggest a time . If it doesn't suit you, you can talk to the operator to change it if other options are available.

Book your helicopter flight in New York

What is the best time for a helicopter flight in New York?

It depends on the view you want to have. If you want to see New York's buildings in all their splendor, and see the city expand to the horizon, try to get a time close to noon . If you want to see the city covered in sunset light and the first evening lights, try to pick a time at the end of the day. Normally, tours are not offered past 8:00 p.m.

Alex's Traveller Tip For all helicopter experiences, without exception, you will need to pay an extra fee at the heliport, which is always $40 per person.

Arrange your helicopter flight in New York City

Where do helicopter flights depart from in new york.

Helicopter tours depart from the heliport located in Downtown Manhattan , at the southernmost point of Manhattan. You will recognize the place by the constant noise of helicopters taking off and landing, and the helicopters you will see flying around, plus it is quite well signposted .

Address: 6 E River Bikeway, New York, NY 10004
Nearest subway: Whitehall St
Located on the East River, south of the Brooklyn Bridge.

What time should I arrive at the heliport?

It is best to be there 15 minutes before your flight time, to have everything ready in advance, and most importantly to go feeling the nerves before you get on the helicopter!

What can I take with me on the tour?

All bags and backpacks are stored in lockers, so do not take anything too big or valuable . Take your passport, the $40 per person heliport fee, and about $5 for the locker. You can ride in the helicopter with your phone and camera .

What documentation do I need?

You will need to bring your passport and present it before boarding the helicopter. This is a must, so be sure to bring it!

Can I ask for pictures of my tour?

Most operators offer a photo service with photos of what you will see from the helicopter and a photo at the heliport.

Where to eat after the flight

Since none of the tours include food and the Manhattan helicopter flight may make you a little hungry, here are a few recommended restaurants near the heliport :

Thunder Bun - a 5 minute walk from the Downtown heliport, and if you're looking for fast food like burgers or sandwiches but in style, this is the place for you.
Pranzo Pizza & Pasta - a neighborhood restaurant where you can find the classic New York pizza slice, pasta, and Italian-style sandwiches.
Mad Dog & Beans - a Mexican food restaurant known for its friendly waiters, guacamole, and generous portions, and is only 7 minutes from the heliport.
Leo's Bagels - the perfect choice if you're flying the helicopter around noontime, as you can stop by for a pastrami brunch, egg sandwich, or typical New York bagel.

Latest tips

You're probably thinking about taking photos to immortalize your helicopter ride , so to get the perfect shot keep in mind that you'll be in constant motion and the helicopter is not entirely stable, so you'll need a fast shutter speed on your camera (over 250/1).

Also, increase the aperture as much as you can and raise the ISO (from 400 to 3200) as the day goes on. You will have some noise in your photos, but in return, you will capture the New York buildings with sharpness.

If you don't want to complicate things, use the Sport mode on your camera or cell phone to avoid taking blurry photos.

You know all the details about how to take a helicopter ride in New York...now, enjoy the experience!

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ELO extends 2024 farewell tour, adds 2nd MSG concert. Get tickets now

Jeff Lynne and Electric Light Orchestra are experiencing a “Strange Magic.”

After announcing their 2024 farewell ‘Over and Out Tour’ in mid-March, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers have extended their run adding second shows in New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

The hitmakers will now perform back-to-back nights at Madison Square Garden on Monday, Sept. 16 and Tuesday, Sept. 17.

“… it’s going to be out of this world!” the band shared in their original tour announcement on Instagram .

This now 31-show trek will be the band’s first since their 2018 tour where they dusted off classic tracks like “Don’t Let Me Down,” “Mr. Blue Sky,” “Telephone Line,” “Turn To Stone,” “Showdown” and many, many more.

If you can’t wait to sing along to all your favorite classic rock radio staples live, tickets can be secured for all ELO shows as of today.

Although inventory isn’t available for the four newly added concerts on Ticketmaster until Friday, April 5, fans who want to ensure they have tickets ahead of time can purchase on sites like Vivid Seats before tickets are officially on sale.

Vivid Seats is a secondary market ticketing platform, and prices may be higher or lower than face value, depending on demand.

They have a 100% buyer guarantee that states your transaction will be safe and secure and will be delivered before the event.

A complete calendar including all tour dates (the new ones are in bold ), venues, and links to buy tickets can be found below.

On their 2018 tour, ELO dropped into NYC’s Madison Square Garden on Aug. 21.

According to Set List FM , here’s what the group took to the stage that night (including nods to Lynne’s stints in The Move and The Traveling Wilburys):

01.) “Standin’ in the Rain”

02.) “Evil Woman”

03.) “All Over the World”

04.) “Showdown”

05.) “Do Ya” (The Move cover)

06.) “When I Was a Boy”

07.) “Livin’ Thing”

08.) “Handle With Care” (The Traveling Wilburys cover)

09.) “Rockaria!”

10.) “Can’t Get It Out of My Head”

11.) “10538 Overture”

12.) “Shine a Little Love”

13.) “Wild West Hero”

14.) “Sweet Talkin’ Woman”

15.) “Telephone Line”

16.) “Don’t Bring Me Down”

17.) “Turn to Stone”

18.) “Mr. Blue Sky”

19.) “Roll Over Beethoven” (Chuck Berry cover)

Although the group has regularly put out reissues and remasters of classic tracks in the 2020s — see “Vocoder,” “Ballads,” “ELO 50th Anniversary Vol. 1” and “ELO 50th Anniversary Vol. 1” — their last album comprised of wholly original music was 2019’s superb “Out Of Nowhere.”

The ten-track record sounds sharper than it has any right to; by our estimation, Lynne’s voice still hits the Beach Boys-level high notes with ease and the tight instrumentation is just as hook-y and danceable as the group’s catchy hits from their ’70s heyday.

If you’re trepidatious of revisiting one of your favorite groups, we recommend starting with the Beatles-esque “From Out Of Nowhere,” tropical “All My Love” and hard-rockin’ “One More Time.”

Make sure to save the upbeat, call-and-response bop “Time Of Our Life” for last. We promise you’ll be dancing in no time.

Haven’t heard the record yet?

Check out Jeff Lynne’s ELO’s “Out Of Nowhere” here .

While Lynne and pianist-keyboardist Richard Tandy have been going strong with ELO since the early 1970s, many of the other members from way back when have since left the band.

For a closer look, here’s who you’ll see when ELO plays at a venue near you this year:

Jeff Lynne (1970–86, 2000–01, 2014–) lead/backing vocals, guitar, piano, bass, drums, keyboards

Richard Tandy (1972–86, 2000–01, 2014–16, 2024-) pianos, keyboards, backing vocals, guitar, bass

Milton McDonald (2014-) guitar, backing vocals

Mike Stevens (2014-) guitar, backing vocals

Iain Hornal (2014-) backing and lead vocals, guitar, percussion

Lee Pomeroy (2014-) bass, backing vocals

Marcus Byrne (2014-) keyboards, piano

Donovan Hepburn (2014-) drums

Melanie Lewis-McDonald (2014) backing vocals, percussion

Rosie Langley (2016-) violin

Amy Langley (2016-) cello

Jess Cox (2016-) cello

Jo Webb (2017-) keyboards, acoustic guitar, backing vocals

Steve Turner (2017-) keyboards

The hit parade never ended.

Dozens of your favorite acts from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s are out and about this year.

Here are just five of our favorites you won’t want to miss live these next few months.

• Rolling Stones

• Ringo Starr and His All Starr Band

• Neil Young

• Bob Dylan with Willie Nelson and Robert Plant

• Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band

Who else is on the road again? Check out our list of the 52 biggest classic rock concerts in 2024 here to find out.

Vivid Seats is the New York Post's official ticketing partner. We may receive revenue from this partnership for sharing this content and/or when you make a purchase.

ELO extends 2024 farewell tour, adds 2nd MSG concert. Get tickets now

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Online Price $549 $165 per seat. NYC HELICOPTER EXPERIENCE. doors-off flight. 16 - 19 Minute Doors-Off Flight. Departs from Kearny, NJ. Book Now. ... With no hidden fees like other helicopter tour companies in New York, from the moment you walk into FlyNYON's terminal to your time in the air, we seek to provide an impeccable and welcoming ...
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THE EMPIRE TOUR. 25-30 Minute Flight Time. Our most exciting and exhilarating sightseeing tour with many great locations and landmarks you must see in New York City, including Brooklyn and Staten Island. This premium NYC helicopter tour Includes all landmarks in The Manhattan and Big Apple Tours plus more! Coney Island.
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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.
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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.
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Our most recommended New York City Helicopter Tours. 1. New York City: Manhattan Helicopter Tour. Manhattan brings to mind grand skyscrapers, taxi cabs, and a world-class attitude all of its own. See all this and more as an expert pilot flies you over NYC on a 15 or 20-minute helicopter tour. Soar over the Statue of Liberty, Central Park ...
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The New York Turbo Pass, for example, offers 10% off the Liberty Helicopter Tour. This is a savings of about $20-$25. These services are $249-$299 respectively, so you can expect to pay $225-$250 with this discount. Read our post on whether or not a New York Pass is worth buying.
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The cheapest New York helicopter ride will cost approximately US$229 per person. It is also the most popular tour of the Big Apple. And at the higher end, the tickets can go up to US$363 per person. Prices of helicopter flights in New York depend on three factors. Amount of time you spend in the air.
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Stunning helicopter tour around New York City's iconic landmarks. Breathtaking bird's-eye views of Manhattan. Book Online or By Phone! Call us on: 1-888-992-3736. Search. EXPERIENCES BROWSE BY CITY ... Tours depart Manhattan NY. Best Price in NYC Guarantee! best seller.
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From $223 at Hellotickets. New York City Extended Helicopter Tour. Extend your trip a bit longer to get into Manhattan. The best option to enjoy a more complete tour in which you will fly over the Hudson up to the height of Times Square and the famous Madison Square Garden. Duration: 20 minutes.
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New York Helicopter Tour. A New York helicopter tour is a unique, once in a lifetime experience. Not to mention the amazing views of Manhattan! Book in advance to take advantage of incredible prices, starting at £162, for a 12-minute helicopter flight (if you book in advance). Discover the famous sights of New York City by air.
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New York Helicopter Tour: Ultimate Manhattan Sightseeing. 816. See New York City's breathtaking skyline and the many iconic sights of the city on this helicopter flight. Soar over the Big Apple with an exclusive sightseeing tour of the Manhattan skyline and beyond, including the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, One World Trade ...
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ELO extends 2024 farewell tour, adds 2nd MSG concert. Get tickets now
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7 Best Helicopter Rides in NYC in 2024 w/ Prices

New York helicopter tour prices

Tips for choosing an NYC helicopter ride

FAQs – New York City helicopter tours

What is the best NYC helicopter tour?

Are NYC helicopter tours worth it?

How much does a helicopter tour cost in NYC?

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

What should I wear for an NYC helicopter tour?

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

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Where do NYC helicopter tours depart from?

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Manhattan Island Helicopter Tour

Taste of NYC Helicopter Tour

New York City Helicopter Tour and Luxury VIP SUV Transfer

Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour

Helicopter Tour with Optional Doors-Off Experience

Night Helicopter Ride NYC: City Lights Skyline Experience

Grand Island Helicopter Flight

New York Helicopter Tour: Manhattan Highlights

Helicopter Tour: Manhattan, Brooklyn and Staten Island

Ultimate Manhattan Sightseeing Helicopter Flight

New York Helicopter Tour: City Skyline Experience

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The Best Private Helicopter Rides

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

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

Our Favorite: The Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour

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HeliNY – The Ultimate Tour

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New York Helicopter Tours

The Best views of NYC are right here.