Must Reads
Niagara Falls helicopter tour
Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Niagara Falls from a helicopter, departing from New York.
New Jersey helicopter tours
A New Jersey helicopter tour is an all-new way of basking in the natural splendor of the city. You see beaches, hills, farmlands and rivers.
Romantic helicopter tours
A helicopter tour over the iconic Manhattan skyline is the ultimate way to take your love to new heights.
Fly over Central Park
Helicopter tours over Central Park provide an extraordinary opportunity to explore this iconic urban oasis from a thrilling aerial perspective.
Night helicopter tour in NYC
Discover the beauty of New York City by night with a helicopter tour that showcases the city’s iconic skyline illuminated in all its glory.
Liberty helicopter tour
Discover the ultimate way to view the Statue of Liberty—by helicopter.
Private helicopter tours
These premium helicopter tours in NYC have become increasingly popular, providing an exclusive and personalized aerial adventure.
Best tour companies
Whether you’re looking for a quick flight over Manhattan or a longer, more luxurious experience, there are plenty of trusted tour operators to choose from.
A helicopter tour gives you a stunning view of New York’s most famous sights, like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building.
Whether you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly ride or a longer, more luxurious flight, there’s a helicopter tour for everyone.
This guide will help you find the best option by covering prices, routes, and important tips. Get ready for an unforgettable experience high above the Big Apple!
What’s ahead
Cost of New York helicopter tours
Related Reads
Helicopter tours in New York start at $249 per person for the most affordable option. The most expensive tours can cost up to $363 per person. The price of a helicopter ride depends on a few things:
Flight duration: Longer flights cost more.
Time of day: Evening and night flights are more expensive.
Tour packages: Some tours include extras, like a boat cruise around the Statue of Liberty, which can increase the price.
If you want the ultimate New York skyline experience, consider a 30-minute flight over Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Staten Island.
Top helicopter tours in New York City
If you’re looking for an unforgettable aerial view of New York, these three helicopter tours are the most popular options, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Whichever aerial tour you choose you can’t go wrong because all offer a breathtaking view of New York’s skyline and landmarks.
Manhattan helicopter tour – best budget option
This most affordable and popular helicopter tour offers a thrilling yet short ride over Manhattan’s top landmarks.
- Duration: 12-15 minutes
- Availability: Multiple flights daily
- Extras: Live onboard commentary, instant confirmation
Landmarks covered: Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, One World Trade Center, Chrysler Building, Empire State Building, Chelsea Piers, The Intrepid, Central Park, and Times Square.
Cost: $259 per person
Book this tourBig Apple helicopter tour – best value for money
This air tour is a longer ride that balances affordability with extended flight time, making it a favorite among tourists.
- Duration: 17-20 minutes
- Availability: Several flights daily
- Extras: Live pilot commentary, instant confirmation
Landmarks covered: Central Park, Columbia University, Yankee Stadium (unavailable during games), New Jersey Palisades, George Washington Bridge, Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, Chrysler Building, Empire State Building, Chelsea Piers, The Intrepid, and Times Square.
Cost: $289 per person
Book this tourAre you a couple? Experience a romantic helicopter tour in New York
Grand Island helicopter tour – best luxury experience
This is the ultimate helicopter tour for those who want to maximize their time in the air and see all five boroughs of New York.
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Availability: Flexible flight times
- Extras: Live commentary, instant confirmation
Landmarks covered: Coney Island, Brooklyn, New Jersey, Northern tip of Manhattan, Verrazano Bridge, Central Park, Columbia University, Yankee Stadium (unavailable during games), New Jersey Palisades, George Washington Bridge, Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, Chrysler Building, Empire State Building, and Chelsea.
Cost: $389 per person
Book this tourNature lover? Fly over Central Park in a helicopter
Discover the best Instagram-worthy captions to perfectly capture your thrilling helicopter ride over New York’s stunning skyline and landscapes.
Things to know before booking helicopter tour
What’s included in your ticket?
Your ticket includes a ride in a modern, climate-controlled helicopter, ensuring a comfortable experience no matter the weather. During the flight, you will also receive free in-flight narration from the pilot, providing interesting facts and insights about the landmarks below.
All local taxes and service fees are already included in the ticket price, so there are no hidden charges. Some tours may also include additional perks. For example, if you book a helicopter tour with a Statue of Liberty cruise, your ticket will cover the 1-hour cruise as well.
What’s not included?
While your ticket covers the flight, some costs are not included in most tours. These are:
- Gratuities (optional, but appreciated)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Heliport fee of $40 per person, which you must at the time of the tour
- Souvenir photos, which can be purchased separately
- Fuel surcharge, which may apply to some tours
However, certain tours do include some of these costs. For example, the New York night helicopter tour covers both the heliport fee and the fuel surcharge in the total price.
Recommended
Cancellation policy
Helicopter tours have a strict cancellation policy. If you need to cancel your booking, you must do so at least 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund. Additionally, no changes can be made within 24 hours of the flight.
Helicopter tours also depend on good weather. If your flight is canceled due to bad weather or if there aren’t enough passengers for the tour to operate, you will be given the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.
Prefer premium experiences? Book private helicopter tour over New York
Helicopter tour schedule
Most helicopter tours in New York operate Monday through Saturday, with no flights on Sundays. Each tour has a different schedule:
- Manhattan helicopter tour: 9 am – 6.30 pm
- Big Apple helicopter tour: 9 am – 5.30 pm
- Grand Island helicopter tour: 9 am – 6.00 pm
Where do helicopter tours take off from?
Most New York helicopter tours depart from Downtown Manhattan Heliport, also known as the Wall Street Heliport. This heliport is conveniently located at Pier 6, near the Staten Island Ferry and East River.
Since the heliport is right in Manhattan, flights begin with stunning views right away, so no time is wasted traveling to the city from a distant location.
Getting to the heliports
If your tour departs from Downtown Manhattan Heliport, following Google Maps is the easiest way to get there. Be sure to enter the correct destination, as some navigation apps may direct you to Chelsea Piers instead.
If your tour is at night, your flight will take off from Linden Airport in New Jersey. The airport is located at 1101 W Edgar Rd, Linden, NJ 07036.
To get to Linden Airport, you can drive or take a train from New York Penn Station via NJ Transit. A roundtrip train ticket costs $17 per person. Once you arrive at Linden Train Station, you can take a short taxi or rideshare to the airport.
Make sure to arrive at the heliport 30-45 minutes before your scheduled flight for check-in and security screening.
How many people can fly in one helicopter?
Tour helicopters usually have either four or six seats. The size of your helicopter depends on the tour you choose and how many people have booked the flight.
Most tours require at least two to four passengers for the flight to take off. The tour may be rescheduled or canceled if there aren’t enough passengers.
New York to Niagara Falls helicopter tour: A full-day adventure! Fly 45 minutes to the falls, then experience the breathtaking views from the sky and a Maid of the Mist cruise.
Rules and restrictions
For safety and comfort, here are some rules that get followed on helicopter tours:
Weight limits apply: If a passenger exceeds the weight limit, they must purchase an additional seat at full price.
Minimum and maximum passengers required: If a tour doesn’t meet the required number of passengers, it may be canceled.
Children and infants are allowed: However, infants must sit on a caregiver’s lap throughout the flight.
Valid passport required: All passengers must bring identification.
No pets allowed: Only certified service animals can board.
Health restrictions: If you have a heart condition or serious medical issue, consult your doctor before booking.
Security screening: All passengers must walk through a metal detector, and all bags will be checked before boarding.
Flight times may vary: Factors like wind and weight distribution can affect the exact duration of your flight.
Seating is assigned for safety: Before takeoff, the pilot and ground staff will balance the weight inside the helicopter for safety. This means you may be requested to sit in the middle, which could slightly affect your view.
Accessibility: New York helicopter tours are fully accessible for guests with disabilities. The helicopters, boarding areas, and surrounding facilities are designed to accommodate wheelchairs and ensure a smooth experience for all passengers.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some common questions visitors have before taking a helicopter tour in New York.
What factors determine the cost of a New York helicopter tour?
The price of a helicopter tour depends on several factors, including the flight duration, time of day, and season. Additional services like hotel transfers, food, drinks, or special add-ons can also affect the cost. Private tours are more expensive since they offer a personalized experience with the entire helicopter reserved for you.
Do I need to book a helicopter tour in advance? If so, how far in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Some tours may require reservations a few weeks in advance, so checking availability early is best.
What is the best time of day for a helicopter tour in New York?
It depends on personal preference. Morning flights offer soft lighting and fewer crowds, while afternoon flights provide bright and clear views. Evening flights allow you to witness the sunset or city lights, creating a unique and romantic experience.
Can I request a specific route or landmark during my helicopter tour?
This varies by tour provider. Some companies may allow you to customize your route, while others follow pre-set flight paths covering major landmarks. It’s best to check with the tour company in advance.
What languages do the pilots or guides speak?
English is the standard language for helicopter tours in New York. Some companies may offer guides or audio narration in multiple languages.
Is there a dress code or specific attire required for a helicopter ride?
There is no strict dress code, but it’s best to wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather. For safety reasons, you must avoid loose accessories like hats, scarves, long jewelry, etc. Secure, comfortable footwear is recommended, as you’ll need to climb in and out of the helicopter.
How early should I arrive before my scheduled flight?
Passengers should arrive 30 to 45 minutes before their scheduled flight to complete check-in, security screening, and safety briefings.
How long does a typical helicopter tour last?
Most helicopter tours last between 15 and 30 minutes, though some extended tours can last up to an hour or more. Private and custom tours may offer even longer flight durations.
Are helicopter tours safe? What safety measures are in place?
Yes, helicopter tours in New York are very safe. Reputable companies follow strict safety regulations, including routine maintenance, pre-flight safety briefings, and regular pilot training.
Are the pilots licensed and experienced?
Yes, all pilots operating commercial helicopter tours in New York must be properly licensed and trained. Many tour operators provide details about their pilots’ experience and certifications.
Can I take photos or videos during the helicopter tour?
Yes! Photography and videography are encouraged, but selfie sticks, tripods, and large camera equipment may not be allowed for safety reasons.
Are headphones provided during the flight?
Yes, most companies provide noise-canceling headphones. These help reduce rotor noise and allow passengers to hear the pilot’s commentary clearly during the flight.
Hi Caroline, August is an ideal summer month for a helicopter ride over NYC. Here are some precautions/tips –
1. Book your tickets in advance to get your preferred time & day slots
2. Wear comfortable clothes (nothing lose which can get stuck)
3. Bring your camera along
Hi, we are planning to book a helicopter tour over New York in August. Is that a good time? Also, any precautions we need to take for a comfortable ride?