Night helicopter tour over New York

A New York night helicopter tour is an adventure that combines the thrill of flight with the enchantment of the city’s nocturnal beauty.

The city is a dazzling sight during the day. But evenings are when New York creates a symphony of lights dancing across the skyline.

There are countless ways to enjoy a breathtakingly beautiful New York City after the lights come on, but a helicopter tour is the best way.

This article shares everything you must know before booking a helicopter tour over New York at night.

Insider Tip: It’s a good idea to book your nighttime helicopter tour of New York early, as they sell out fast.

What’s ahead

Cost of night time helicopter tour

The New York City Lights nighttime helicopter tour offers a breathtaking 25 to 30 minutes of airtime and is priced at US$334 per person for all passengers aged two and above. Infants under two years old can join free of charge, provided they sit on an adult’s lap.

For a more intimate experience, couples can opt for a 30-minute private helicopter tour, ideal for romantic outings, at a flat rate of US$800 per group (up to two people).

Best night helicopter tours in New York

Below, we have curated a list of some of the best night helicopter tours in the city, which also happen to provide the most value for your money.

City Lights Skyline Experience

This is the most popular nighttime helicopter tour in New York City — and for good reason.

As you fly over the city under a starry sky, you will get stunning views of iconic landmarks like Times Square, Rockefeller Center, the Statue of Liberty, and the George Washington Bridge, all beautifully lit up at night.

Your pilot will also share live commentary during the flight, with interesting facts and stories about the places you see, helping you appreciate New York’s rich history and culture.

When booking your tour, you can choose a time that works best for you. Available time slots include 6:00 pm, 6:30 pm, 7:00 pm, 7:30 pm, 8:00 pm, 8:30 pm, and 9:00 pm.

This helicopter tour takes off from Linden Airport in Linden, New Jersey.

Duration of the flight: 25 to 30 minutes
Cost: US$334 per person for travelers over 2 years of age

Must Read: Tips for your first helicopter tour

Discover the best Instagram-worthy captions to perfectly capture your thrilling helicopter ride over NYC.

Private after-dark NYC helicopter tour for couples

This private nighttime helicopter tour is perfect for couples who want to see the city in a magical way — just the two of you.

As you take off, you’ll soar past famous landmarks like the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, Central Park, Yankee Stadium, and the sparkling Manhattan skyline. You’ll also get amazing views of the East River bridges, all glowing beautifully under the night sky.

You can choose between a 30-minute or 45-minute flight, depending on how long you’d like to stay in the air.

Here’s a table outlining the cost of the tour for a couple:

Must Read: What to wear for your helicopter tour

Romantic helicopter proposal flight at night

Ready to pop the question in a way they’ll never forget? This private nighttime helicopter tour over New York City is a dreamy setting for a marriage proposal.

You’ll work with a professional engagement photographer to plan every detail of your 30- or 45-minute flight — from the perfect moment to propose to capturing it all on camera.

A private car will pick you up from your hotel or home in Manhattan. To keep the surprise alive, your destination stays a secret from your partner until you arrive at the heliport just outside the city.

You can propose before takeoff, mid-flight with the sparkling city below, or after landing — it’s completely up to you.

After the big moment, celebrate with a champagne toast, a bouquet of roses, and a box of premium chocolates. And for the grand finale, a glowing “Marry Me” sign lights up the night sky — just for the two of you.

30-Minute Proposal Package: US$3,520 for a couple

45-Minute Proposal Package: US$4,150 for a couple

Related: Book Private Helicopter Tours in New York

Helicopter tour timings

New York night time helicopter tours start from 6 pm and continue till 9 pm. There is a take off every half hour.

Related: Best helicopter tours over Manhattan

Departure heliports

City Lights Skyline Experience from a helicopter takes off from Linden Airport (LDJ).

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

Private after-dark NYC helicopter tour for couples takes off from Atlantic Aviation West.

Address: 67 Tower Road, Harrison, NY 10604, USA.

Romantic helicopter proposal flight at night takes off from Westchester County Airport.

Address: 240 Airport Rd, White Plains, NY 10604, USA.

Restrictions strictly followed

For a safe and comfortable nighttime helicopter ride in New York, weight and height limits may apply depending on the tour package.

Passengers exceeding these limits may be unable to fly.

If the minimum number of passengers is not reached, the tour may be canceled, with options for rescheduling or a refund.

Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and infants are required to sit on a caregiver’s lap.

Seating arrangements are often determined by the tour organizers to ensure a stable flight.

Additionally, a valid government-issued photo ID is mandatory on the day of the tour.

What to lookout for during the night helicopter tour

Chrysler Building: It is the most beloved skyscraper in the world that begins to illuminate from within at precisely 8.59 pm every night.

Empire State Building: The Empire State Building and other Midtown icons have a magnificent nighttime appearance as this building shines in all seasons.

TriBeCa: The trendy neighborhood of Tribeca is known for its old industrial structures, many of which have been converted into loft-style homes. These structures are a delight for the eye to watch in the evening.

SoHo: It has Instagram-worthy hotels, including Williamsburg Hotel and The Ludlow. After dark, after the sun has gone down, it is a fascinating sight.

West Village: The best nightlife in the West Village isn’t just found in dance clubs; a lot of the after-hours activity happens in jazz clubs and gay hangouts.

Columbus Circle: The iconic Columbus Circle is visible from the helicopter’s floor-to-ceiling windows. 

Central Park: Masterwork in landscape design is located at the southwest corner of Central Park.

Statue of Liberty: As you fly over the iconic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal, you get breathtaking views of Lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. More about Statue of Liberty helicopter tours.

Some of the other city attractions you will see from the air are – The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum, One World Trade Center, Chelsea Piers Sports & Entertainment Complex, Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, Yankee Stadium, and George Washington Bridge.

Cancellation policy

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, you may be offered a different date or a full refund.