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New York helicopter tours

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Helicopter Tours
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Soar above the "concrete jungle" on a New York helicopter tour

The New York skyline is one of the most recognizable worldwide, adorned with iconic landmarks such as the famous Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge, all of which highlight the essence of the city. What better way to appreciate this city in its entirety than looking at the landscape from an aerial perspective? Stay on this page to find out everything you need to know about the New York helicopter tours!

Aerial view of downtown manhattan during New York Helicopter Tour

Finding your way around the New York helicopter tours guide

  1. Why go on a New York Helicopter tour?
  2. Things to know before booking a New York helicopter tour
  3. Your New York helicopter tours explained
  4. Find your best New York helicopter tour match
  5. Your New York helicopter tour route map
  6. All you need to know about your helicopter
  7. Your guide to checking in & boarding your New York helicopter
  8. Your checklist for a hassle-free boarding experience
  9. Plan your visit
  10. A quick look at some New York helicopter tour reviews

Why go on a New York Helicopter tour?

new york helicopter ride
new york helicopter tour tickets
nyc helicopter tours
nyc helicopter ride tickets
new york helicopter tours
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Spot iconic landmarks from a bird’s eye view

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of New York City from a whole new perspective as you take to the skies in a helicopter. Witness the iconic skyline with its towering skyscrapers and famous landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building, and more!

A thrilling adventure with a taste of luxury

Brace yourself for an exhilarating adventure that will give you a rush of adrenalin as the helicopter takes off and soars above New York at impressive heights. All this while you bypass traffic and sail across the skies in a state-of-the-art luxury helicopter.

Incredible photo opportunities

As you hover above the city, you'll have access to unparalleled photo opportunities, allowing you to frame iconic structures, picturesque landscapes, and bustling streets from a unique vantage point.

State of the art helicopters and experienced pilots

With thousands of hours of flying experience, your pilots go through a long and rigorous training process to meet FAA standards. You will be flying in the cutting-edge 6-seater Bell 407GX which is equipped with the latest functionalities and safety features including GPS, Synthetic Vision Display Units and Terrain Warning Avoidance Systems.

Accessible heliports

The three heliports from which your helicopter tours will take off are conveniently located in the heart of Manhattan in New York, Linden in New Jersey and Westchester County. All the heliports are easily accessible by public transport.

Things to know before booking a New York helicopter tour 

If this is your first helicopter ride, don’t fret, we’ve got you covered! Just go through this list of things to keep in mind before your first helicopter tour in the New York skies.

  1. Book your tickets well in advance! The New York Helicopter Tour is a popular experience that sells out quickly so you'll want to secure your spot as early as you can. Additionally, planning your tour at the start of your NYC trip allows ample time for potential rescheduling due to weather conditions, making sure it seamlessly fits into your itinerary.

  2. There will be a security screening before the flight, so head over to the heliport at least 30 minutes before departure for a hassle-free experience. Last-minute arrivals may not be allowed to fly.

  3. Boarding points are available in New York (Downtown Manhattan Heliport), New Jersey (Linden Airport), and Westchester (Westchester County Airport area) depending on which tour you opt for.

  4. Keep in mind that the weight limit for the tour is 275 lbs per passenger. Each tour accommodates 6 passengers per flight within the mentioned weight limit, if you are above the limit you might have to wait for the next tour for safety reasons. You may also be required to pay an additional fee if the number of passengers per trip has to be altered.

  5. Children under 2 don’t require tickets, but they must be seated on the lap of an adult. Adults need to make sure to keep their seatbelts on at all times. ​​For some tours, a parent or guardian must be present to sign a consent form if the rider is under 18.

  6. Travel light and carry only necessary items when you go on the tour. Depending on the total weight of all passengers and available space, you may be asked to check in your hand luggage.

  7. The helicopter tour is weather-sensitive. In case of bad weather conditions, the flight may be rescheduled or canceled without notice to ensure the safety of all guests. Rides may also be canceled or rescheduled during games at Yankee Stadium or Presidential visits.

  8. A mandatory heliport fee is applicable for each individual. This is not included in the price of your tickets.

  9. Have a look at the ​route maps to choose a tour based on the duration and routes of the helicopter tours. The longer the duration of the tour, the more attractions are covered.

  10. For the tour from Linden Airport, a complimentary shuttle pick-up from Linden Train Station is available.

People boarding a helicopter during New York Helicopter Tour

Your New York helicopter tours explained

new york helicopter tour from downtown manhattan

Helicopter tours from Manhattan

  • Enjoy stunning aerial views of the New York skyline as you soar across the sky in a luxury helicopter.
  • Spot iconic landmarks like Central Park, the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, and more!
  • Choose between 15, 20, and 30-minute helicopter rides, based on your preference.

Departure point: Downtown Manhattan Heliport (​Find on Maps)
Attractions covered: 13+ sights including the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, & Brooklyn Bridge.
Timings: Day tours fly every 30 minutes from Manhattan for the 15 and 20-minute tours from 9am to 5:30pm. Tours fly every 60 minutes for the 30-minute tour from 9am to 5pm.

Recommended tours:

15-Minute NYC Helicopter Tour from Downtown Manhattan20-Minute NYC Helicopter Tour from Downtown Manhattan30-Minute NYC Helicopter Tour from Downtown Manhattan
new york helicopter tour from linden airport

Night helicopter tours from Linden, New Jersey

  • Discover New York from a whole new perspective on a thrilling helicopter ride that starts from Linden Airport across Manhattan.
  • Soar past the Statue of Liberty, the Financial District, Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building, and other famous landmarks.
  • This 25-30 minute NYC helicopter ride is a unique way to quickly cover the city's sights.
  • Your night time tour will show you the city in a unique perspective, sparkling in millions of lights below as you look at them from between the stars.

Departure point: Linden Airport (​Find on Maps)
Attractions covered: 15+ sights including the George Washington Bridge, Times Square, & the Yankees Stadium.
Timings: Night tours fly every 30 minutes from 6pm to 9:30pm.

Recommended tours:

30-Minute NYC Helicopter Tour from Linden Airport
Helicopter tours from Westchester

Helicopter tours from Westchester

  • Experience NYC’s top attractions in style and take in the views of iconic landmarks like Midtown Manhattan, Central Park, and the Empire State Building.
  • Fly above the cityscape on a 30 or 45-minute adventure, complete with live commentary from an expert guide, for an unforgettable way to witness the grandeur of the Big Apple.
  • Accommodating 2 to 6 passengers, this experience is perfect for families or friends for a more personalized experience.

Departure point: Westchester County Airport (​Find on Maps)
Attractions covered: Lower Manhattan, Lady Liberty, Ellis Island, Battery Park, Central Park, Empire State Building, and more.
Timings: Tours fly every half hour from 10am to 8:30pm.

Recommended tours:

NYC Shared Helicopter Tour from WestchesterNYC Private Helicopter Tour from Westchester for 2Private NYC Helicopter Tour from Westchester for 2-6 People

Your New York helicopter tour route map

Download map

New York helicopter tours routes explained

new york helicopter tour route map
new york helicopter tour route map
new york helicopter tour route map
new york helicopter tour route map
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15-Minute Tour from Downtown Manhattan

The first sights covered are Governor's Island, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty. Next, you will cruise along Manhattan, spotting Central Park, Chrysler Building, Empire State Building, and Times Square. Admire the U.S.S. Intrepid Sea, Air, & Space Museum, Chelsea Piers, West Village, and Tribeca. Pay respects at Ground Zero and the 9/11 Memorial and then return to the heliport after an unparalleled New York experience.

20-Minute Tour from Downtown Manhattan

First, you will pass Governor's Island, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty, and then head north to witness the bustling George Washington Bridge. Enjoy stunning aerial views of Manhattan's top attractions, including Central Park, Empire State Building, and One World Trade Center. Admire Central Park's entire length and other notable landmarks like Grant's Tomb. Next, you will cruise past New Jersey's palisade cliffs and Inwood Hill Park. Finally, you will catch a glimpse of Yankee Stadium above the Hudson River.

30-Minute Tour from Downtown Manhattan

Once your tour begins, catch sight of Governors Island, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty. Next, admire the iconic Verrazano Narrows Bridge connecting Staten Island to New York. Finally, fly over the charming bays of Staten Island and Coney Island before you return to the heliport.

30-Minute Tour from Linden Airport

Your route begins with the Statue of Liberty, New York's Financial District, and Brooklyn Bridge. After this, you will fly past Battery Park and One World Trade Center and then along the Hudson River. Here is when you can spot the One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, and the 9/11 Memorial fountains before heading back, passing the Statue of Liberty again.

Quick facts about your helicopter

new york helicopter ride facts
  • You will be flying in the Bell 407 GX, a type of helicopter known for its versatility, performance, and advanced technology.
  • The helicopter will be equipped with Global Positioning Systems (GPS), Synthetic Vision Display Units, and Terrain Warning Avoidance Systems (TWAS).
  • You might have heard that choppers can get noisy, but fret not! Your helicopter also comes with state-of-the-art noise reduction technology.
  • The Bell 407 GX can seat a maximum of 6 people. This ensures a smooth ride since weight can be evenly distributed.
  • In a full chopper, a couple of passengers might have to take the middle seats, but the Bell 407 GX’s big windows ensure that every passenger on tour has a front seat experience.
  • If luxury is what you’re looking for, this chopper offers you comfortable seating, a roomy cabin, and a safe ride while you’re at it!
  • The helicopter has a 375-mile range and can fly at speeds of up to 160 mph.
  • Other helicopters that are used include the Bell 427 (7-seater), Airbus EC130T2 (7-seater), and the Airbus EC155 (12-seater, 530-mile range and capable of 200 mph).

Get here, before going up in the air: Boarding points for your NYC helicopter ride

Now that you’re prepped with all you need to know before booking your New York helicopter tour tickets. Here are the two heliports from which you will take off on your New York aerial journey depending on the tour you choose.

Downtown Manhattan Heliport

Location: Manhattan

Address: 6 East River Piers, NY 10004 | ​Find on Maps

Nearby landmark: You can spot the New York Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza Square right opposite the heliport.

Closest bus stop: South St/Whitehall St | ​4-minute walk

Closest subway station: WTC Cortlandt | ​6-minute drive

Linden Airport

Location: New Jersey

Address: 1101 W Edgar Rd, Linden, NJ 07036, United States | ​Find on Maps

Nearby landmark: Look out for the street Wildcat Way that you can spot diagonally opposite Aspen Dental - Linden.

Closest bus stop: Legacy Square North 70'n Of Pleasant Street | ​14-minute walk

Closest subway station: Linden, 2 S Wood Avenue | ​5-minute drive

Atlantic Aviation HPN West

Location: Westchester

Address: 67 Tower Rd, White Plains, NY 10604, United States | ​Find on Maps

Nearby landmark: The heliport is located within Westchester County Airport premises.

Closest bus stop: Airport Access Rd @ New King St | ​4-minute drive

Closest metro rail station: White Plains - Train Station (Ferris) | ​11-minute drive

Your checklist for a hassle-free boarding experience

  • Arrive early: Don’t take the infamous New York traffic head-on! Try to reach the heliport at least 30-45 minutes before your scheduled departure to make sure you have enough time to get through the security screening and baggage check-in if needed.
  • Bring a valid ID: You will be asked to share an ID proof before flying so have your government-issued photo ID or passport ready.
  • Follow instructions: Listen carefully to the safety briefing provided by staff before boarding. Make sure you secure your belongings and don’t forget to secure yourself using the seatbelt while you’re at it!
  • Board calmly: Wait for your turn to board the helicopter and follow the instructions of the ground crew for a smooth departure. Don’t rush and do the same while deboarding.
  • Enjoy the experience: Don’t forget to be in the moment and take in the stunning views of New York City from above!

Plan your tour

new york helicopter tours timings

Helicopter Tour from Downtown Manhattan:

  • 15-minute tour from 9am to 5pm
  • 20 & 30-minute tour from 9am to 5:30pm

Helicopter Tour from Linden Airport: 7:30pm to 9:30pm

Helicopter Tour from Westchester: 10am to 8:30pm

Best time to go on an NYC helicopter tour: The best time to ride on a New York helicopter tour is during the spring or fall months. Spring (March to May) offers mild weather with blooming flowers and clearer skies, while fall (September to November) provides stunning foliage colors and comfortable temperatures, making for picturesque aerial views of the city.

*All tours are operational only from Monday to Saturday since New York has flight restrictions on Sundays.

Downtown Manhattan helipad
Downtown Manhattan

Departure point: Downtown Manhattan Heliport

Address: 6 East River Piers, NY 10004 | ​Find on Maps

  • By Subway: Take lines 1 and 2 to South Ferry, line 3 to Wall Street, lines 4 and 5 to Bowling Green, line R to Whitehall Street, or line J to Wall Street.
  • By Bus: Take M1, M6, or M15 to South Ferry.
  • By Car: Take Exit 1 off the FDR.
Linden Airport

Departure point: Downtown Manhattan Heliport

Address: 6 East River Piers, NY 10004 | ​Find on Maps

  • By Subway: Take lines 1 and 2 to South Ferry, line 3 to Wall Street, lines 4 and 5 to Bowling Green, line R to Whitehall Street, or line J to Wall Street.
  • By Bus: Take M1, M6, or M15 to South Ferry.
  • By Car: Take Exit 1 off the FDR.
Westchester

Departure point: Downtown Manhattan Heliport

Address: 6 East River Piers, NY 10004 | ​Find on Maps

  • By Subway: Take lines 1 and 2 to South Ferry, line 3 to Wall Street, lines 4 and 5 to Bowling Green, line R to Whitehall Street, or line J to Wall Street.
  • By Bus: Take M1, M6, or M15 to South Ferry.
  • By Car: Take Exit 1 off the FDR.
new york helicopter tours accessibility

For all the New York helicopter tours, you will need to transfer from the wheelchair onto the helicopter and be able to sit in one of the seats with your legs bent.

Downtown Manhattan Heliport: For passengers under 150 lbs, the staff can assist you into the helicopter and will bring your wheelchair to and from the Heliport while you are flying.

For passengers over 150 lbs, you must be able to transfer on your own or have someone with you who can assist you up into the helicopter.

new york helicopter tours rules & safety information
  • The maximum weight limit is 275 pounds. Individuals weighing over this will be required to pay an additional fee and may be asked to wait for a flight that can safely accommodate them.
  • Flights may be cancelled or rescheduled due to bad weather, during games at Yankee Stadium, or during Presidential visits, for safety reasons.
  • You may be required to check in your handbags.
  • All guests will have to go through a mandatory security screening before the tour begins.
  • Make sure you don’t eat anything too heavy before the flight as you are going to scale high altitudes.
New York helicopter tours rules & regulations
new york helicopter tours tips
  • Arrive at the heliport at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure for check-in and pre-flight briefing.
  • Listen carefully to the pilot's commentary through noise-canceling headphones to learn interesting facts about the city.
  • Bring a valid photo ID as it will be required for security checks.
  • Don't forget to charge your camera or phone beforehand to capture stunning aerial views of New York City.
  • Be prepared for motion sickness. Take the required medication if needed and request for a seat near the aircraft's center for a smoother ride.
  • Be mindful of weight restrictions and follow instructions from staff regarding seating arrangements for a balanced flight.
  • Relax and enjoy the experience, but also be prepared for potential delays due to weather or air traffic.
Plan your New York helicopter tour
things to do in new york
  • Statue of Liberty: A symbol of freedom and democracy, the ​Statue of Liberty is an iconic landmark adorning the New York Harbor.
  • Museum of Modern Art: The ​Museum of Modern Art is a vibrant hub of contemporary creativity. Its exhibitions, iconic artworks, and diverse collections redefine the boundaries of modern artistic expression.
  • Empire State Building: The iconic ​Empire State Building is an architectural marvel towering over Manhattan's skyline. From its historic significance to breathtaking observation decks offering panoramic views of NYC, it offers a glimpse of American ingenuity and ambition.
  • 9/11 Memorial & Museum: The ​9/11 Memorial & Museum was built to honor the lives lost and commemorate the events of 11 September 2001. Immerse yourself in a deeply moving tribute to resilience, remembrance, and unity in the heart of Lower Manhattan.
Things to do in New York

Incredible views of the New York skyline you won't want to miss

NYC Helicopter ride

Get in a New York state of mind

A view of some of New York city’s tallest skyscrapers during the sunset in Manhattan.

NYC Helicopter ride
new york helicopter tours
new york helicopter tours
new york helicopter ride

Frequently asked questions about the New York helicopter tours

What is included in the helicopter tour?

Your New York Helicopter Tour includes an unforgettable flight over NYC’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and One World Trade Center. You will receive live commentary from the pilot, noise-canceling headsets for a comfortable experience, and opportunities for incredible aerial photos.

Are private tours available?

Yes, private helicopter tours can be arranged from Westchester. You can choose between ​NYC Private Helicopter Tour from Westchester for 2 and ​Private NYC Helicopter Tour from Westchester for 2-6 People.

Can I book a tour last minute?

Bookings are allowed up to the day of the tour, subject to availability. Since there are a limited number of tours operated per day and helicopter tours are popular in NYC, we suggest you ​book your tour at least a week before to get your preferred date and time slot.

Are there any restrictions to go on a New York helicopter tour?

The maximum weight limit for each passenger is 275lb. Individuals weighing over this may be asked to wait for a flight that can safely accommodate them. Seat belt extenders can be provided if required.
Additionally, please note that children below 2 must be seated on the lap of an adult at all times during the ride.

Where are the boarding points for the New York helicopter tours?

The boarding point for tours departing from Manhattan is at ​Downtown Manhattan Heliport, while the tours from New Jersey start from ​Linden Airport, and those from Westchester leave from ​Atlantic Aviation HPN West.

What happens if the weather is bad?

If the weather conditions are bad, your tour may be canceled or rescheduled. You can either opt for an alternate date suitable to you or get a full refund.

Are there any discounts for children?

Children below 2 do not require tickets.

Is parking available at the heliport?

Parking is available at Linden Airport and Atlantic Aviation HPN West but not at Downtown Manhattan Heliport. If you’re driving to the Manhattan departure point, you can park your vehicle at nearby parking garages located at South Street & Whitehall Street, South Street & Old Slip Road, or at the South Street Seaport (Pier 17).

What time do I need to arrive at the heliport?

Plan to arrive at the heliport at least 30 minutes before your departure time.

Should I take the day or night helicopter tour?

Choosing between the day or night helicopter tour is solely based on your preference. While the day tour offers a clear and stunning aerial view of New York, the night tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the city adorned with night lights.

*Have more questions about the New York helicopter tours? Visit our FAQs page for a complete list of questions and answers covering a wide range of topics.

​New York helicopter tours FAQs

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