Whether you’re a first-time visitor to New York or a lifelong resident, a helicopter tour offers a fresh and awe-inspiring viewpoint, unveiling hidden gems and showcasing the city’s familiar sights in a whole new light.
Among others, private helicopter tours in NYC have become increasingly popular, providing an exclusive and personalized aerial adventure.
You can make the most of your flight, focusing on the stunning sights with only your group of loved ones and no unfamiliar crowd.
This article will explain everything you need to know before booking Private New York helicopter tours.
Top Tickets
# Private Manhattan Helicopter Tour
# Private Big Apple Helicopter TourIt’s highly recommended to book your Private New York helicopter tours tickets in advance. These tickets sell out quickly, so securing your spot early ensures you don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.
What’s ahead
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Cost of Manhattan private helicopter tours
Private helicopter rides can be a costly affair owing to their exclusivity and customizability.
So, it is important to know the tour costs in advance to plan your trip and factor it in with other considerations.
But there is no doubt that a private helicopter tour in Manhattan is a perfect intimate getaway.
The cheapest private helicopter ride in Manhattan will cost approximately US$1,474 per group of up to 5 people of all ages
The best private flight depends on the size of your group and preferred airtime.
At the higher end is the Niagara Falls Day Trip from Manhattan by Helicopter, the tickets of which can go up to US$24,200 per group of up to 5 people.
Prices may increase on demand for some other customizations.
Related: Experience a Romantic Helicopter Tour in New York
Best private helicopter tours of Manhattan
Below, we have curated a list of some of the best private helicopter tours in the city, which also happen to provide the most value for your money.
Private Manhattan Helicopter Tour
Experience breathtaking views of New York City with the Manhattan Helicopter Tour of New York!
This exciting tour gives you the chance to soar above the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the One World Trade Center.
The tour lasts approximately 15 minutes, providing a stunning aerial perspective of the Big Apple.
This tour is a fantastic way to see New York from above and capture unforgettable memories. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to view the city like never before!
Duration: 12 to 15 minutes
Cost: US$239.00 per person.
Book This TourDiscover the best Instagram-worthy captions to perfectly capture your thrilling helicopter ride over New York’s stunning skyline and landscapes.
Related: Fly Over Central Park with Helicopter Tours
Private Big Apple Helicopter Tour
Discover New York City from the sky with The Big Apple Helicopter Tour!
In this thrilling 15-minute ride, you’ll fly over some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and Central Park.
This tour offers a stunning bird’s-eye view of the Big Apple’s iconic skyline.
Don’t miss this unforgettable opportunity to see New York City in all its glory from the comfort of a helicopter!
Duration: 17 to 20 minutes
Cost: US$215.00 per person
Book This TourRecommended
Private NYC Helicopter Sightseeing Charter with Champagne from Manhattan
Take to the skies with the NYC Private Helicopter Sightseeing Experience, a adventure offering breathtaking views of New York City’s iconic landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building.
This luxurious private tour features a champagne toast to enhance your memorable journey.
With multiple departures available throughout the day, you can easily find the perfect time for your flight.
Whether it’s a romantic date or a special celebration, this private helicopter tour offers an exclusive and personalized experience.
Duration: 25 to 30 minutes
Cost: US$2,199 per group (up to 5 people) over 14 years of age
Book This TourRelated: Explore Manhattan Helicopter Tours
Romantic Vineyard Picnic via Private Helicopter
This tour is the dreamiest it gets!
Indulge in the ultimate luxury experience with the Vineyard Picnic with Private Helicopter Charter, a adventure that takes you from New York City to a beautiful vineyard in style.
Enjoy a scenic helicopter flight over NYC’s iconic landmarks before landing at a picturesque vineyard for a private wine tasting and a gourmet picnic.
This exclusive tour combines breathtaking views with a relaxing vineyard escape, perfect for a romantic day or special celebration.
Duration: 4 hours
Cost: US$10,100 per group of up to 5 people of all ages
Book This TourRelated: Enjoy a Night Helicopter Tour in NYC
Hamptons Beach Picnic with Private Helicopter from Manhattan
This tour is perfect for those who crave luxury and sophistication.
Satisfy your taste for elegance as you fly from Manhattan to the Hamptons, where you’ll be greeted with a gourmet beach picnic beautifully arranged with luxurious décor.
A personal attendant will be on hand to serve your meal, ensuring a truly indulgent experience.
Relish the exquisite spread of lunch served right on the beach, surrounded by stunning views and serenity.
Escape the hustle of the city and enjoy an exclusive, intimate setting. Book now to elevate your getaway with this lavish, unforgettable experience.
Duration: 5 hours
Cost: US$20,400 per group of up to 5 people
Book This TourNiagara Falls Day Trip from Manhattan by Helicopter
Located on the border between the United States and Canada, the breathtaking Niagara Falls is a must-see natural wonder.
Your journey begins with a scenic helicopter flight from a Manhattan heliport, offering panoramic views of the stunning landscapes of upstate New York.
Upon arrival at Niagara Falls, you’ll be immersed in the awe-inspiring sight and sound of the thundering waterfalls.
Spend up to 5 hours exploring, shopping, dining, and capturing unforgettable moments with your camera before your return flight.
If Niagara Falls has always been on your bucket list, this tour is the perfect way to experience its beauty in style!
Duration: 10 hours
Cost: US$23,200 per group of up to 5 people
Book This TourDeparture point
| Tour Name | Departure Heliport | Address | Directions/Public Transport Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manhattan Helicopter Tour | Downtown Manhattan Heliport | Charm Aviation NYC – 6 E River Piers, New York, NY 10004, USA. Get Directions | R to Whitehall Street, then 1 to South Ferry. Bus: 9 or 15 to South Street Seaport Stop. | Located near Staten Island Ferry. |
| Big Apple Helicopter Tour | Downtown Manhattan Heliport | Charm Aviation NYC – 6 E River Piers, New York, NY 10004, USA. Get Directions | R to Whitehall Street, then 1 to South Ferry. Bus: 9 or 15 to South Street Seaport Stop. | Located near Staten Island Ferry. |
| NYC Helicopter Sightseeing Charter with Champagne | TSS Heliport | E 34th St, New York, NY 10016, USA. Get Directions | Accessible by public transport | Weekend departures from a different location. |
| Romantic Vineyard Picnic Tour | Air Pegasus Heliport | 335 12th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA. Get Directions | Accessible by public transport | Three departure options available. |
| TSS Heliport | E 34th St, New York, NY 10016, USA. Get Directions | Accessible by public transport | ||
| Wall Street Heliport | 6 E River Piers, New York, NY 10004, USA. Get Directions | Accessible by public transport | ||
| Hamptons Beach Picnic with Private Helicopter | Air Pegasus Heliport | 335 12th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA. Get Directions | Accessible by public transport | Three departure options available. |
| TSS Heliport | E 34th St, New York, NY 10016, USA. Get Directions | Accessible by public transport | ||
| Wall Street Heliport | 6 E River Piers, New York, NY 10004, USA. Get Directions | Accessible by public transport | ||
| Niagara Falls Day Trip from Manhattan | West 30th St Heliport | NY-9A, New York, NY 10011, USA. Get Directions | Accessible by public transport | Three departure options available. |
| TSS Heliport | E 34th St, New York, NY 10016, USA. Get Directions | Accessible by public transport | ||
| Downtown Manhattan Heliport | 6 E River Piers, New York, NY 10004, USA. Get Directions | Accessible by public transport |
Note:
- All heliports are easily accessible by public transportation.
- It’s recommended to book early to secure your preferred day and time slot.
Endpoint
Most of the private tours end back at the meeting point.
However, NYC Private Helicopter Sightseeing Tour with Champagne Toast ends at Saker Aviation Services.
Address: 6 E River Greenway, Bikeway, NY 10004, USA. Get Directions.
It is important to note that charters will arrive at different locations depending on the day and time.
Timings of the tour
The Private Manhattan Heli Tour, Big Apple Heli Tour, and Empire Heli Tour start their first flights at 9 am every day except Sunday.
Tours run every 30 minutes until the last one at 5:30 pm, offering amazing aerial views of New York City.
The Private Sightseeing Charter with Champagne departs every 30 minutes from 10 am to 6 pm daily, letting you enjoy a luxurious helicopter ride with a celebratory champagne toast.
The Vineyard Picnic with Private Helicopter Charter offers flights every 30 minutes from 11 am to 2 pm, giving you a scenic trip to a beautiful vineyard for a relaxing picnic.
The Hamptons Beach Picnic with Private Helicopter has flights every 30 minutes from 8 am to 1 pm daily, providing a perfect beachside getaway.
For a day at Niagara Falls, the Niagara Falls Day Trip from Manhattan takes off at 8 am every day for an unforgettable adventure.
Be sure to arrive at least 45 minutes before your flight to ensure everything goes smoothly!
Restrictions strictly followed
For NYC Private Helicopter Tours, weight limits are in place to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
- In a six-seater plane, each passenger’s weight should not exceed 275 lbs. (113 kg). Passengers over this limit must purchase an extra seat.
- In five-passenger Airbus helicopters, the individual weight limit is 249 lbs. (113 kg), with a maximum combined weight of 1000 lbs. (453 kg).
- For a couple’s private R44 helicopter, the maximum individual weight is 175 lbs. (80 kg), with a combined weight limit of 350 lbs. (160 kg). The maximum passenger height is 6 ft 3 in (192 cm).
Passengers on champagne tours must be at least 21 years old.
Infants and children are allowed onboard, with infants required to sit on the caregiver’s lap throughout the flight.
All passengers must pass a metal detector scan and bag inspection.
Samsung Galaxy Note 7 phones may not be permitted on some flights.
A valid photo ID is required, and only service animals are allowed—no pets.
Flight times may vary depending on winds, weights, and conditions.
Seating arrangements are managed by the organizers for safety and balance.
Exclusions of the air tour
A heliport fee of US$45 per head is not included in your ticket. However, some private tours expect you to pay it before taking off.
Your ticket price for all tours also excludes holiday surcharges, gratuities, and sales tax.
The New York Private helicopter tours are also not inclusive of food and drinks except for the Romantic Vineyard Picnic and Hamptons Beach Picnic, offering lunch and wine as well as the Helicopter Sightseeing Charter from Manhattan providing an in-flight Champagne toast.
The ticket also does not include hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Accessibility to the tour
The NY Private air tours are completely accessible to guests with disabilities.
The aircraft, transportation, and surfaces are completely wheelchair accessible, preventing any inconvenience for the guests.
Cancellation Policy
To receive a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour.
If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, a 100% cancellation fee will apply, and no changes can be made within that timeframe.
Helicopter tours are weather-dependent.
If your tour is canceled due to bad weather or not meeting the minimum number of passengers, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
