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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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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Manhattan Helicopters

Breathtaking Helicopter Tours over New York City

Classic Manhattan Helicopter Tour

Take a flight that you will remember for a lifetime! Departing from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport, the Classic Manhattan Tour begins at the majestic the Statue of Liberty, followed by the world-famous Manhattan Skyline.

• Calendar Monday-Saturday 9:30am-6:30pm
• Clock 12-15 Minutes

Choose A NYC Helicopter Tour

• Clock 18-20 Minutes

Deluxe Manhattan Helicopter Tour

An exciting and comprehensive helicopter tour of New York City with breathtaking views and excellent photo opportunities! This extended version of the Classic Tour will treat you to the best views of New York City including the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building and Central park.

• 4 Passenger Minimum
• Calendar 4 Passenger Minimum , Monday-Saturday 9:30am-6:30pm
• Clock 25-30 Minutes

VIP Manhattan Helicopter Tour

All aboard for the most spectacular and unforgettable experience of your New York visit! With the extended route and approximately 30-minute duration, you’ll be sure to feel like a VIP on the VIP Tour!

Why Choose Manhattan Helicopters?

There is nothing more important to us than ensuring your safety.

In addition to luxury seating for ultimate comfort , our helicopters are equipped with oversized window for prime visibility.

We have the most modern fleet in the industry. We will make you feel like a VIP.

We are proud to offer tours in nine languages, including English, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, German, Japanese, Chinese, and Russian.

Hear Why Sightseers Love Us on TripAdvisor

On our holiday to New York City it was on our list to have a helicopter ride! What a fabulous experience! I was very fortunate to sit with the pilot, Andrew from Dublin (I am from Wales so it was a great connection instantly), and he gave me one of the best life experiences. It was amazing!! Between the Statue of Liberty, the NYC skyline, and the bridges, I can’t recommend it enough!

Loved every minute of this trip. It is well worth the money spent. A big thank you to the pilot - he looked after us, explaining everything whilst taking us to the heliport. The waiting area was clean and the guys were friendly. He was very friendly and chatty, wanting to know where everyone came from. I really recommend this trip if you want an unforgettable experience.

I spent a few days in New York City with my girlfriend and we did a lot of things, but without a doubt, the highlight of our trip was Manhattan Helicopters. The service was so efficient that we were flying in no time, but the best part was the friendliness of the place, especially from Santiago and Osvaldo Vigo. Those two gentlemen were amazing!! Highly recommend the tour to anybody.

I booked the VIP tour, which included 25 minutes of helicopter tour. As soon as I arrived, they got me on the flight with my 8-year-old daughter, and everything was in order and done in a very professional manner. The ride was awesome, as we got the front row, right next to the pilot so we could see the panoramic view, which was a great experience.

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See Manhattan and the surrounding area in comfort and style on a HeliNY helicopter tour! With both day and night options available, multiple locations and a commitment to safety and service, let us provide you with your dream helicopter ride above New York City!

NYC DEPARTURES

Take in all the sights New York City has to offer by taking a New York City helicopter tour! There is no other way to take in the views of all major landmarks from the Statue of Liberty to Central Park in 15 minutes. Hop aboard and let us show you New York City from a whole new perspective!

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• Helicopter Tours

New York Open Door helicopter tours

No shortage of NYC helicopter tours but there is of the open door kind which happens to be the best way to see Manhattan.

Few New York open door helicopter tours are made available through FlyNyon or HeliFlight. Guests will embark via New Jersey before reaching the Manhattan skyline in a Bell LongRanger, Robinson R22 or Airbus H125. Benefits to doors off option is unrestrictive photography opportunities with no glass reflection .

Quick Open Door tour table

Nyc doors off helicopter tours, new jersey operators only, off-the-shelf open door routes, charter nyc flight path, benefits to open doors over new york, open door fashion sense, pro photography opportunities.

What better way to take a complete New York City helicopter ride than when the doors are removed for unrestrictive sightseeing.

Common flight paths are carried over to the open doors option with a difference; you'll experience unparallel views with no windows or doors holding you back.

When departing via HeliFlight the tour will take part in a small yet often shaky Robinson R44 - it can be thrilling but is not ideal for professional photography.

Yet the Bell LongRanger or Airbus H125 are turbine powered helicopters that will allow for a more steadier flight.

Experience what is a termed as an open door shoe selfie helicopter ride with FlyNyon as you're permitted to swing around on your seat.

Not an option with HeliFlight but the area allowed for viewing or photographing in the helicopter is much larger.

In a Hurry? take a glance at all 4 New York City doors off helicopter tours that are open to all customers, who should book way in advanced of arrival, unless otherwise stated.

You'll notice the table price list has four columns each with its own data, and is accurate when I first published on 14th February 2020.

Operator column is the helicopter company who will be flying you; Package is the name of the tour; Min. is flight duration, estimation only - and finally, starting Price.

FlyNyon and HeliFlight are the only services made available with only four flights among them.

Helicopter operators will try to maintain your flight for the time promised, though it is more possible the time will be added on or in between - rather than coming under.

Incredibly, its just the 4 NYC helicopter rides for passengers to embark on at this time, but its one package you will need to see all landmarks.

FlyNyon or HeliFlight will bring guests within reach of all attractions you wish to see from a birds-eye view.

Expect the tour to begin with Ellis Island or the Statue Of Liberty before embarking on a more adventurous tours, that will see popular tourist destinations.

While the operators begin there flights in New Jersey with only four New York open door packages to pick - let's try to see which operator is the one for you.

FlyNyon are well known in the doors off helicopter tour circles and will likely be the first option when a potential client thinks, doors off in NYC.

Operate a number of helicopters with a fleet that includes an Airbus ACH125 or a Bell 206L LongRanger - one of my favorites.

Its important to know what helicopter you'll be a passenger of as the seat arrangement does vary drastically.

In the Bell there's three seats forwards, and two seats facing backwards, including the co-pilot seat. The Airbus has four forward facing seats in the rear, with two extra passengers in the front, next to the pilot.

• NYC Experience
• Check Availability | Duration: 16-19 Minutes | Price: $128.00
• Entry level class NYC helicopter flight that is sure to please at a basic rate. Once you've come within reach of Manhattan; get ready to view the Statue Of Liberty, Ellis Island, Battery Park, Brooklyn Bridge, the Financial District and much more...
• NYC Classic
• Check Availability | Duration: 30-33 Minutes | Price: $220.00
• Extended flight can only mean more time for sightseeing, and that's what you'll get as the tour will come within reach of all popular landmarks as outlined above. Only more time allows for a longer haul so more attractions will be seen.

Often HeliFlight will get overlooked in the doors off helicopter tour game as there street cred hasn't quite reached the heights of FlyNyon.

They're not an operator to be overlooked though as the service on offer is similar to that of FlyNyon (sorry to keep bringing them up).

Helicopter HeliFlight will be taking you up in their agile yet can be smooth Robinson R44 - with the doors off of course.

What that means for passengers is a doors seat for everyone; one passenger is the co-pilot while two guests sit in the rear.

• NYC Photo Experience For Two
• No Longer Available | Duration: 20-25 Minutes | Price: $339.00
• Special aerial photography experience will allow for two guests time to take amateur to the most pro photography, thanks to no third person in the way. Private flight that will see all sights mentioned thus far, but so much more.
• Doors Off Helicopter Adventure
• No Longer Available | Duration: 20-25 Minutes | Price: $549.00
• You plus two guests can see Manhattan in a time that will allow for all major sights to see. Attractions to see is the Tear of Grief, Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, Staten Island Ferry Terminal, Statue of Liberty, Governors Island, Ellis Island and more.

Did you know New York open door helicopter tours never depart the busy Pier 6 harbor on the East River in lowe Manhattan.

Maintaining high standards on the platform is imperative for customer safety, that can not be made possible if a group of photographers come and go.

Photography is forbidden on the Downtown Manhattan Heliport so it would be difficult to stop guests who ignore basic safety instructions.

So therefore, for that reason you can only take an open door helicopter tour via New Jersey.

Which is just as well as its where two of the finest open door helicopter ride specialists happen to be headquartered.

First up is FlyNyon who are located at: 78 John Miller Way, Kearny, NJ 07032.

Luxury, spacious guest lounge allows for time to prepare for the flight well a safety briefing will be followed up for a safety harness fitting.

No viewing the helicopters landing or taking off as its a short shuttle drive to the helipad that is just 2 minutes away.

Next up is the reliable HeliFlights who are located Linden Airport, address: Hangar 400, 1101 W Edgar Rd., Linden, NJ 07036.

No shuttle service here as guests will be escorted out onto the helipad to the helicopter.

New York City helicopter tours mentioned thus far are only tours that are made available for all guests.

When you don't want the trouble of chartering a helicopter to fly around Manhattan on a route that is different - then make it one you can book online.

In fact, all four open door helicopter flight paths have been refined over the years through customer feedback.

Therefore it will be the best route possible that will take in all major landmarks.

Bonus to that of course with a New Jersey departure point is you'll get a brief look at Linden or Kearny, respectively - before Manhattan is visible on the horizon.

As it happens, all off the shelf helicopter tours will differ in terms of exact flight path or end experience.

Operators will tell you the open door helicopter rides lend themselves to a new flight every time - with no tour being the same.

I highly recommend you stick to the flight paths made available to you that are developed though years of experience.

But what a private New York helicopter tour can offer you is a tour that can be just you, a friend or your own group.

Charting a doors off helicopter tour route can be arranged for doors on if you wished.

What you'll get through a private charter is many things, among them:

• Guest numbers depends on how many you want to bring
• Choose helicopter type to use; Airbus H125, Airbus TwinStar, Bell 206 or R44
• Hire a helicopter for a set time only
• Make up own flight path with help of the operator
• Charter a helicopter to an event, airport transfer or private location

When taking a chartered helicopter with FlyNyon, you'll be handed over to their FoxTrot branch for doors off/on options.

HeliFlight will feel like a new flight route every time but a special arrangement can be made with them.

Know that if one or three passengers are brought along; if there is spare seating the chartered cover price needs to assume all seats are used - even if they're not.

While professional to amateur photographers are set to benefit more to doors off, guests who are in it for the ride will benefit hugely too.

No way can it be made greater viewing New York City with the naked eye when there's a panel of glass between you and the outside.

Glass windows in helicopter sightseeing can cause all sorts of problems; among them reflection, restrictions and believe it or not - smutches or spots on glass interfering.

So there you have it, huge benefit to open door helicopter rides over Manhattan is that passengers can see NYC with HD vision.

In addition to all that the importance of more leg room or space for your arms or elbows to protrude out is a delightful bonus.

Difficulty for operators is when guests show up in attire that is not suitable for an New York open helicopter ride.

What that could mean is arriving at the terminal underdressed in the cold weather, or perhaps wearing too much when its warm.

However, they will not give you any grief about it providing you're fit to fly in regards to what you shouldn't be wearing.

Its an open door helicopter ride so as you can imagine, items could fall out in flight if its not firmly strapped down.

That relates to your shoes being closed or open toed. Guests must wear closed toed, lace fastened shoes to prevent them slipping off.

No jewellery that can be caught up or drop off, but a hat and gloves could be allowed.

Professional photographers are set to benefit photographing New York how it was intended - no doors causing reflections.

Photographers who often participate in aerial photography know that doors on is not a realistic option.

Problems to occur for pro's is obviously the window panel, but the door itself can be restricting in terms of camera positioning.

Doors on prevents people pointing there camera to a desired direction, whereas if the door was on it will only be a straight shot forward.

If pointing a camera through windows in a direction that is not direct, the result could be the glass being noticed.

Closed cabin environment can be made even more difficult with New York City night time helicopter flights - where even the helicopter control panel could be seen.

Taking a unique New York open door helicopter tour departing New Jersey is unlike all tours made available in the city.

NYC doors off allows for unrestrictive sightseeing with an option for you to take amateur to the most professional aerial photography.

Something that cannot be achieved through a doors on helicopter experience.

New Jersey is always your depart point via Linden Airport or Kearny, as the Downtown Manhattan Heliport does not permit open door flights.

Operators you'll be relying on for an experience you'll never forget is the well know FlyNyon to their near by rival, HeliFlight.

Helicopter type you'll be a passenger of is a powerful Bell LongRanger or Airbus Airbus H125 - or an agile, piston powered Robinson R44.

Off the shelf open door helicopter tours over New York allow for only four packages.

Regardless that is all you'll need as the tour flight path has been refined over many years to create a route that is preferred by past guests.

If that is not enough, there is an option to hire a helicopter over NYC for the day or to a special even or transfer - with help of a private helicopter.

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Best Helicopter Tours in NYC (+ Pros & Cons of Each Tour)

Are you looking to see the city as you’ve never seen it before? Above in the sky with a birdseye view from a helicopter ride over NYC? Lucky for you, you can turn this dream into a reality! There are several incredible helicopter tours in NYC from night helicopter tours over NYC witnessing the city sparkling at night to private, romantic helicopter rides in New York!

Whether you’re looking to check off a New York City bucket list experience , celebrate a special occasion, enjoy one of the best NYC experiences , or get incredible photography from high in the sky – we’ve broke down a detailed guide to the best helicopter rides in NYC to help you pick which helicopter ride is best for you!

We cover everything from what you’ll see on your helicopter ride over NYC to where your tour starts and other essential information you need to know before choosing your heli ride in New York!

Helpful Tips Before Your Helicopter Ride Over NYC

Be sure to check each of these helicopter rides in NYC carefully as each company and each tour varies as they either have different aircraft they use, have different rules, their departing location could be out of the city, and more.

Keep in mind that some of these helicopter tours in NYC require you to pay an extra fee the day of the tour that goes towards helipad or airport fees, taxes, or security fees. When booking, see if this fee is already included in your price or you will be expected to pay the day of your heli ride in New York.

Be sure to also check the weight and age requirements as they vary by aircraft. Especially if you’re traveling with young children or a group. Keeping weight in mind, sometimes you won’t be able to choose your seat as they need to distribute weight carefully and will sit you according to weight distribution.

Keep in mind that not all of the helicopter rides over NYC actually depart from the city center or Manhattan, be sure to check and plan ahead as many of these tours depart from New Jersey or Westchester County north of Manhattan which both are easy to get to using the New Jersey Transit or Metro-North Rail.

Only a few of the helicopter tours provide hotel pick up and drop off and it usually costs an extra fee for the driver.

Be sure to check carefully how early you need to be at the airport or helipad before your helicopter tour! You don’t want to be late, especially if you’re having to travel to one of the outer locations. Many of the helicopter tours even have late fees if you don’t show up on time or are shared helicopters and will leave if you’re not there on time with no refund.

Some require arriving up to 90 minutes before your flight! 

Speaking of checking in, most of these helicopter tours require an original issued government ID or passport to check in, even for children. Be sure to check each company’s rules before purchasing.

Many of the helicopters only allow you to bring certain items on to the tour. Most facilities either have complimentary lockers for passengers or a small fee to rent a locker to store the belongings that can’t make it on the flight.

All helicopter tours are subject to good weather and ideal flying conditions. If for any reason you have poor weather, most companies offer alternative tour times/days or refunds.

For those needing accessible helicopters, it’s best to check with each company individually if they are wheelchair accessible, many of the helicopter tours are. You’ll need to let the company know when booking you have accessibility needs so they can arrange the proper aircraft for your tour.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.

Best Helicopter Tours in NYC

Manhattan island helicopter tour.

If you want a closed-door tour with a bird’s-eye view of some of the city’s most famous highlights, the Manhattan Island Helicopter Tour is perfect for you. Leaving from Lower Manhattan at the Downtown Heliport at Pier 6, this is a really convenient option that doesn’t require you to travel too far outside of the city!

Starting at just under $200 per person, this helicopter tour has many different meeting points to choose from so that you can decide how long your helicopter tour over NYC lasts. They have many different options; the tours vary from 12-30 minutes long!

Throughout the tour, the audio guide will narrate and explain the importance of the landmarks below! They also have audio guides that you can listen to in other languages. These landmarks include Central Park and the Hudson River.

If there isn’t excellent visibility, the tour will be rescheduled for everyone so that the views will be totally visible! In fact, this New York helicopter tour comes equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows that will allow you to get the best view and photos of the skyline possible. 

Your ticket and flight come with a locker and a noise-canceling headset that will allow you to listen to the pilot with ease for the entire flight. If you want photos of the flight views for purchase, those are available as well. This is an excellent idea for anyone that wants to soak in the views without their phone but also be able to have photos that capture the experience! Book here.

Perks of this Helicopter Tour: departs from Lower Manhattan, airport fees already included (no extra charges), shorter flight options at a great price, large windows, complimentary locker, photos available for purchase

Things to be aware of on this Helicopter Tour: $50 rescheduling fee if you need to change your reservation

Iconic Landmarks Helicopter Tour (Doors Off Optional)

Another great helicopter tour that goes over Lower Manhattan is the Helicopter Tour of Iconic Landmarks . This helicopter tour goes over Lower Manhattan and its many landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, World Trade Center, and Brooklyn Bridge.

This 15-minute flight gives you the option to do a doors-on or doors-off experience as an upgrade.

Keep in mind that this helicopter tour charges a boarding fee of $28.65 per person and is not suitable for anyone under the age of five. They ask that you arrive 75 minutes before your flight to go through the proper check-in and safety protocols departing from Kearny, New Jersey. Book here.

Perks of this Helicopter Tour: option to upgrade to a doors-off flight, short and affordable option

Things to be aware of on this Helicopter Tour: There’s a boarding fee per person on the day of the tour, they don’t allow children under 5 years old or pregnant women on their flights, need to arrive 75 minutes before your flight

Taste of NYC Helicopter Tour

Another great helicopter tour in NYC is the Taste of NYC Helicopter Tour . Starting at the range of just over $150 per person, this tour goes over the most famous sights in the city, including Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty!

This flight starts in Kearny, New Jersey and is typically during mid-mornings lasting around 15 minutes.

Although cameras are not allowed on this tour, you’ll be able to bring your phone and take all of the photos you want! Book here on Get Your Guide or Book here on Viator .

Perks of this Helicopter Tour: airport and boarding fees already included, wheelchair accessible 

Things to be aware of on this Helicopter Tour: no cameras allowed (phones are allowed), if you’re not at the departure point at least 45 minutes before your scheduled flight you’re subject to a $50-$100 late fee per person

Manhattan Helicopter Tour

This Manhattan Helicopter Tour is another fantastic option for anyone that wants an audio guide as they view the city from up above! This helicopter ride over NYC allows you to see some of the city’s most famous attractions, including Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the Statue of Liberty. You’ll also fly above the Brooklyn Bridge and see the lights of Broadway, which are known to be stunning at night!

This tour lasts anywhere between 15-20 minutes with a highly trained pilot and crew on board. You’ll also be able to purchase a video of your ride and locker rental as extra upgrades for a fee.

There is an additional helicopter and airport facility fee of $40 per person not included in your reservation or helicopter ride fee. One HUGE perk about this NYC helicopter ride is that it actually departs from Manhattan at the Manhattan Heliport located on Pier 6 of the East River – you know, just like the business big wigs or like in famous tv shows like Succession!

Not only does this helicopter tour allow you to see the fantastic view of NYC, but you’ll also be able to learn more about the city’s history and the story behind each iconic landmark. Book here.

Perks of this Helicopter Tour: Price includes airport and heliport fees already, departs from Lower Manhattan

Things to be aware of on this Helicopter Tour: Check-in starts at 45 minute before departure

HeliNY’s New Yorker Tour

Another great heli ride over New York is HeliNY’s The New Yorker Tour ! This 12-15 minute helicopter ride over NYC is great for anyone who wants to sweep through the entire borough of Manhattan quickly including fly-overs at Central Park, the Empire State Building, and Statue of Liberty.

With large windows and the promise of a smooth ride, this New York helicopter tour is perfect for anyone who wants to see the city from above and you’ll even get a little extra added commentary from your pilot about each of the landmarks you’ll encounter.

Another perk to this heli tour in New York is that it departs from Manhattan, so no other excessive travel to get to your departure point! The meeting location is at 6 East River Piers, which is along the East River in Lower Manhattan. They also advertise as being wheelchair accessible.

This unique New York helicopter tour goes up close to the Statue of Liberty, over the New York Harbor, and above many other landmarks uptown including the Chrysler Building and Central Park. Then, the helicopter will turn around and head south to end on a fantastic note: right above the One World Trade Center! The views from above in this helicopter will surely beat any you can see from a skyscraper below. Book here.

OR upgrade your flight time to include more NYC landmarks for a 20-minute flight on the Deluxe Manhattan Helicopter Tour . This tour will go as far north to see Harlem and Yankee Stadium from above, which is further than most NYC helicopter tours go! Book here .

Keep in mind for all HeliNY tours there’s an additional $40 fee per person for the heliport.

Perks of this Helicopter Tour: upgrade options for length of tour, multiple departure time options, airport fees already included, departs and returns to Manhattan for a smaller commute, wheelchair accessible, infants welcome and can sit on lap of the parent

Things to be aware of on this Helicopter Tour: check with the operator to see how early you need to arrive before your flight

New York Helicopter Flight: Grand Island Tour

Another heli ride over New York that captures the great landmarks in the city is New York Helicopter Flight: Grand Island . Starting at $360 range (not including the $40 per person fees for the heliport), this helicopter tour lasts 25-30 minutes and goes over the iconic NYC landmarks, including Central Park, the Empire State Building, and Times Square to name a few.

In total, this helicopter tour will allow you to see 15 iconic spots from up above! As you fly over each site, the knowledgeable pilot will explain the history and tell you where to look to see the most fantastic view. 

This New York helicopter tour departs from the East River Piers (yay, another convenient helicopter tour in Manhattan) and has a minimum of 4 guests and a maximum of 5 guests per tour. So if you want a private heli ride over New York for a group of you and four friends, this is a great option! 

Be sure to arrive one hour before your flight with your government-issued IDs on hand and ready to be checked as a part of your onboarding process. That goes for children too. Book here.

Perks of this Helicopter Tour: Departs from Lower Manhattan for a shorter commute, infants are welcome to sit on parent’s lap, wheelchair accessible, service animals permitted

Things to be aware of on this Helicopter Tour: There’s an additional heliport/security $40 fee per person on the day of the tour, helicopters sit 4-6 people max depending on which aircraft you get, contact to find out how early you need to be before your departure

Private Romantic Helicopter Tour for Couples

Looking for something romantic to do to surprise your significant other or have a special occasion to celebrate together? One great heli ride over New York for couples is this Private Helicopter Tour for Couples !

Unlike many other tours, this tour provides an upgrade option that includes hotel pick up and drop off, making it the perfect all-in-one date night experience! In addition, this tour is offered in either 30 or 45-minute increments. It is also a great night helicopter tour in NYC for those who want to see the city lights at night!

See quintessential New York City landmarks like Central Park, the Empire State Building, and all the way up to Yankee Stadium! Choose between doing a day flight or an evening flight for a night helicopter tour over NYC.

This helicopter ride goes from Midtown to Upper Manhattan during the 30-minute flight. If you’re set on seeing the Brooklyn Bridge, be sure to get the 45-minute flight!

This heli tour in New York departs from Westchester Airport located north of the city which is accessible by the Metro-North Rail. If you don’t want to worry about this commute, it’s worth looking into the hotel pick up option from this tour, which charges based on standard car service rates.

Keep in mind there’s also an airport and service fee of $35 per person upon arrival. Book here.

Perks of this Helicopter Tour: upgrade option to include transportation from hotel to/from Westchester Airport for a fee, completely private tour, infants under the age of 2 can ride on parent’s lap

Things to be aware of on this Helicopter Tour: airport fee of $35 per person not included, the maximum height allowed is 6’3″

NYC City Lights Night Helicopter Tour 

One incredible night helicopter tour in NYC is this NYC City Lights Helicopter Tour ! If you want to see the NYC skyline from up above at sunset or at night, this tour is perfect.

Each tour lasts 25-30 minutes while a highly trained pilot flies over the Newark Airport toward the Manhattan skyline including great views of landmarks like the World Trade Center and the Empire State Building at night.

Additionally, you’ll be able to admire the illuminated landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and the lights of Times Square! Although the standard option for this tour is the group tour, you can upgrade to a private tour for an extra fee! The upgrade includes ground transportation to and from Manhattan to the heliport at the Linden Airport in New Jersey.

This is one of the few helicopter tours where the price you pay at booking is all you have to pay as it already includes all airport and heliport fees as well as complimentary lockers to use for your personal belongings that can’t go on the flight. Book here.

Perks of this Helicopter Tour: upgrade options to include transportation to and from Linden Airport, free parking available if you’re coming by car, complimentary lockers, airport fees and taxes already included, children under the age of 2 can sit on parent’s lap

Things to be aware of on this Helicopter Tour: hats, food & drink, and bags are not permitted on flights (can use complimentary lockers if you have these items), only cameras and wallets permitted onboard, you will have to watch a brief safety video before departure

Completely Private Manhattan Helicopter Tour for Groups

This Manhattan Private Helicopter Flight is an excellent option for anyone that wants a private, exclusive tour with a group of friends!

You’ll have to book the entire value of the tour, so this is best done if you have the max number of riders to join you for up to five people total. You can choose between a 30-minute or 45-minute tour. This option is great for anyone that is celebrating a special occasion with friends or family!

This helicopter ride over NYC starts in Westchester at the Westchester County Airport in White Plains. This airport is easily accessible from the Metro-North rail departing Grand Central Terminal.

Once you take off from this airport, the helicopter will fly above the city’s major sights, including skyscrapers like the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building to other famous landmarks like Central Park and the bridges over the East River like Brooklyn Bridge. As you fly over the city, a live tour guide on board will narrate the entire flight!

Keep in mind, each person will have to pay a $35 per person airport and service fee. This flight has wheelchair-accessible options, you’ll need to let them know when you’re booking. Book here.

Perks of this Helicopter Tour: wheelchair accessible, multiple flight options throughout the day/night, hotel pick up/drop off is an option for an additional fee, free parking if you’re arriving by car

Things to be aware of on this Helicopter Tour: Price does not include $35 airport fee per person, max 5 people and you pay the total amount of the helicopter not per person.

FlyNYON’s Open Door Helicopter Ride

One of the best open-door helicopter tours in NYC is FlyNYON’s Doors-Off Helicopter Experience ! During this tour, you’ll be able to fly over the Southern tip of Manhattan and see some of the most famous landmarks in the city, including the World Trade Center, Brooklyn Bridge, and Statue of Liberty!

Many people like taking this New York helicopter tour during sunset since it provides such a fantastic view of the city’s skyline!

The doors stay open throughout this entire 12-minute tour over the water, allowing you to really get that birdseye view of the city. Keep in mind that this tour does have an extra boarding fee, (~$30 per person), and children under five are not allowed. This helicopter tour starts in Kearny, New Jersey.

Perks of this Helicopter Tour: open door tour, affordable option (prices vary based on demand)

Things to be aware of on this Helicopter Tour: does not include $30 per person boarding and airport fee, no children under the age of 5 allowed, 

The City Lights Night Helicopter Tour

The City Lights Skyline Experience is an excellent option for anyone that wants a nighttime helicopter ride over NYC. This helicopter tour goes over Rockefeller Center, Times Square, and many other exciting NYC landmarks that look stunning while lit up at night! In total, this helicopter ride over NYC goes over 17 stops!

This tour also has live commentary on board, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a climate-controlled cabin. In addition, for an extra fee of $17, you can get transportation to and from NYC! This tour takes off from the Linden Airport in New Jersey and lasts 25-30 minutes. Book here.

Perks of this Helicopter Tour: airport fees are already included in price, upgrade option to include transportation to and from the heli pad in Linden Airport in New Jersey, infants are permitted and will need to sit on parent’s lap, wheelchair accessible

Things to be aware of on this Helicopter Tour: contact the operator to find out how early you need to arrive before your departure

Found this guide to the best helicopter tours in NYC helpful? Bookmark for later or share the love below on Pinterest! Happy flying!

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

By: Author Charles

Posted on August 29, 2023

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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Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours: Flying Over Manhattan!

Published: September 6, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Giovanna Stillman

Introduction

Welcome to the thrilling world of Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours! Prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure as you soar over the iconic skyline of Manhattan, taking in breathtaking views and experiencing the exhilaration of flying high above the bustling streets of the Big Apple.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventure enthusiast or a first-time visitor to New York City, Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours offers a unique perspective of the city that you won’t find anywhere else. From the moment you step foot on our state-of-the-art helicopters, you’ll be immersed in a world of wonder and awe.

As the rotors start to spin and the helicopter lifts off the ground, the anticipation builds. With the wind in your hair and the city at your feet, you’ll be treated to an unparalleled sightseeing experience. From the Statue of Liberty to Central Park, the Empire State Building to the Brooklyn Bridge, Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours takes you on a journey that showcases the best of New York City from a whole new angle.

Our experienced pilots are not only skilled aviators, but also knowledgeable guides who will provide fascinating commentary throughout the tour. They will share interesting historical facts, point out notable landmarks, and even offer insider tips on where to find the best food, shopping, and entertainment in the city.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, surprising a loved one, or simply seeking an adrenaline rush, Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours is the perfect choice. Our fleet of modern helicopters is equipped with cutting-edge safety features, ensuring a secure and comfortable flying experience for all passengers.

Join us as we take you on an awe-inspiring journey through the skies of New York City. Get ready to create lasting memories and experience the thrill of a lifetime with Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours.

History of Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours

Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours has a rich history that dates back to the early days of aerial sightseeing in New York City. Established in the 1970s, Open Door NYC was one of the pioneering companies to offer helicopter tours in the Big Apple.

Originally founded as a small family-owned business, Open Door NYC quickly gained popularity among locals and tourists alike. Its commitment to safety, professionalism, and providing an unforgettable experience set it apart from other tour operators. Over the years, Open Door NYC has continued to grow and evolve, becoming a leading name in the helicopter tourism industry.

One of the defining features of Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours is its commitment to offering an open-door experience. Unlike traditional helicopter tours where passengers are seated behind closed windows, Open Door NYC provides a unique opportunity to feel the exhilaration of the wind rushing through your hair as you take in the stunning sights of Manhattan.

In recent years, Open Door NYC has also embraced eco-friendly practices, investing in advanced technology and fuel-efficient helicopters to reduce its carbon footprint. This commitment to sustainability has earned the company recognition for its efforts in promoting responsible tourism.

Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours has also been at the forefront of incorporating cutting-edge audio and visual technology into its tours. Passengers can now enjoy interactive touch-screen displays that provide real-time information about the landmarks they’re flying over, enhancing the overall experience and creating a deeper connection to the city.

Today, Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours continues to captivate visitors from around the world with its thrilling aerial adventures. The company’s unwavering dedication to safety, exceptional customer service, and providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience has made it a top choice for those seeking a unique and unforgettable way to explore New York City.

Join us as we embark on a journey through the skies and discover the history and beauty of the Big Apple with Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours.

Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours takes you on a meticulously crafted route that showcases the most iconic landmarks of Manhattan. From the moment the helicopter takes off to the awe-inspiring descent, every moment of the tour has been carefully planned to provide a truly unforgettable experience.

The journey begins as you ascend into the sky, soaring above the Hudson River. As the helicopter gains altitude, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty, standing proudly on Liberty Island. Capture this iconic symbol of freedom from a unique vantage point as you glide through the air.

Next, the helicopter will make its way up the Hudson River, offering panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline. Marvel at the towering skyscrapers, including the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building, as they stand tall against the backdrop of the vibrant city below.

As you continue along the route, the helicopter will fly over Central Park, the sprawling oasis in the heart of Manhattan. Admire the lush greenery, winding paths, and glittering lakes from above, gaining a new appreciation for this urban sanctuary.

The journey continues as you fly over the famous Times Square, known as the “Crossroads of the World.” Witness the dazzling lights, billboards, and bustling energy of this iconic location, a sight that truly captures the essence of New York City.

The helicopter will then navigate its way towards the Brooklyn Bridge, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. Marvel at the architectural marvel of this suspension bridge as you fly above it, enjoying a breathtaking view of the New York City skyline.

As the tour nears its end, the helicopter will make its descent, providing a final opportunity to soak in the incredible sights before landing back at the heliport. Reflect on the awe-inspiring journey you’ve just experienced, filled with stunning aerial views and an intimate connection to the heart of Manhattan.

Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours provides a thrilling and comprehensive route that highlights the best of New York City. From the Statue of Liberty to Central Park, Times Square to the Brooklyn Bridge, this tour offers a unique perspective that is sure to leave you with lasting memories of your visit to the Big Apple.

Stunning Views from Above

Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours offers an unrivaled opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of New York City from above. As you soar through the skies, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views that showcase the city’s most iconic landmarks in all their glory.

From the moment the helicopter takes off, you’ll be enveloped in a sea of towering skyscrapers, shimmering waters, and sprawling parks. The open-door experience allows for unobstructed views that will leave you in awe at the sheer scale and grandeur of the city below.

As you hover above the Hudson River, you’ll have an up-close encounter with the Statue of Liberty. Witness Lady Liberty in all her splendor, her torch held high, and her presence commanding attention. The sight of this iconic symbol of freedom from a bird’s-eye view is truly awe-inspiring.

As the helicopter glides over the city, you’ll be treated to breathtaking aerial views of Central Park, an oasis of lush greenery amidst the concrete jungle. Admire the winding paths, glistening lakes, and vibrant green trees as they create a serene contrast to the surrounding skyscrapers.

The tour also includes a flyover of Times Square, where you’ll be mesmerized by the dazzling lights, vibrant billboards, and the energy of thousands of people bustling below. The aerial perspective gives you a unique appreciation for the iconic “Crossroads of the World.”

One of the standout moments of the tour is the flight over the Brooklyn Bridge. As you hover above the bridge’s majestic arches, you’ll witness the intricate design and engineering marvel from a whole new angle. The view is truly awe-inspiring, with the Manhattan skyline serving as a stunning backdrop.

Throughout the tour, the skilled pilots of Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours provide fascinating commentary, sharing historical and cultural insights that deepen your understanding of the city’s landmarks and their significance. It’s a chance to learn while taking in the mesmerizing sights.

Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours offers an unforgettable experience that allows you to appreciate the splendor of New York City from a unique perspective. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned New Yorker, the stunning views from above will leave you with a newfound awe for the city’s beauty and a wealth of memories to cherish.

Booking Information

Booking your Open Door NYC Helicopter Tour is a breeze, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience from start to finish. Here’s everything you need to know to reserve your spot on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

1. Availability and Reservations: Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours are available year-round, weather permitting. It is recommended to book in advance to secure your desired date and time. Reservations can be made online through the official website or by phone.

2. Tour Options: Open Door NYC offers a variety of tour options to suit different preferences and budgets. From short introductory flights to extended explorations of the city, you can choose the tour length and route that best suits your needs. Private tours are also available for those seeking a more personalized experience.

3. Safety and Regulations: Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours prioritizes the safety and well-being of its passengers. All helicopters are regularly inspected and maintained to the highest standards. Passengers should adhere to the safety briefing provided before the flight and follow any instructions given by the pilot during the tour.

4. What to Bring: It is recommended to bring a valid photo ID for all passengers, as well as the confirmation of your reservation. Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are advised for the best experience. Cameras and phones are allowed on board to capture the incredible views.

5. Arrival and Check-in: Plan to arrive at the heliport at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow for check-in and pre-flight preparations. Present your reservation confirmation to the friendly staff who will guide you through the check-in process.

6. Cancellation Policy: Open Door NYC has a flexible cancellation policy, allowing you to cancel or reschedule your tour up to a certain number of hours or days before the scheduled departure time. It is recommended to review the specific cancellation policy at the time of booking.

7. Pricing and Extras: The cost of Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours varies depending on the duration and type of tour chosen. Pricing typically includes the helicopter flight, pilot narration, and the unforgettable experience of flying over the city’s landmarks. Optional extras such as in-flight photography and personalized souvenirs may also be available.

Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours offers an easy and convenient booking process, ensuring that your adventure in the sky above Manhattan is as seamless as it is exhilarating. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to witness the beauty of New York City from a whole new perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours:

1. How long is the helicopter tour?

The duration of the tour varies depending on the package you choose. Tours typically range from 15 minutes to one hour, allowing you to tailor your experience to your desired length of time.

2. Are there any age restrictions?

All participants must be at least 10 years old. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the tour.

3. Can I bring a camera or phone?

Yes, you are welcome to bring cameras and phones on the tour to capture the incredible views. However, please ensure they are securely fastened and be mindful of using them during the flight.

4. Is there a weight limit for passengers?

Yes, there is a weight limit for each helicopter. The weight limit per passenger and the total combined weight of all passengers will be provided at the time of booking.

5. What happens in the event of bad weather?

The safety of passengers is the top priority. In the event of inclement weather, the tour may be rescheduled or canceled. If your tour is canceled due to weather, you will be provided with the option to reschedule or receive a refund.

6. Is there a restroom on the helicopter?

Unfortunately, there are no restrooms available on the helicopters. It is recommended to use the facilities before the tour.

7. Can I bring bags or backpacks?

Baggage is not allowed on board the helicopter for safety reasons. However, small personal items such as purses and cameras are permitted.

8. Can I request specific landmarks to see during the tour?

While the pilot will follow a designated route that highlights the main landmarks of Manhattan, specific requests may be accommodated based on safety and feasibility.

9. Is tipping customary?

Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated if you feel your pilot provided excellent service. Gratuities can be given directly to the pilot.

10. Is there a dress code?

There is no strict dress code, but it is recommended to dress comfortably and wear closed-toe shoes for the best experience.

If you have any additional questions or concerns, feel free to contact the Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours customer service team. They will be happy to assist you and provide further information regarding your upcoming adventure in the skies above New York City.

Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours offers an exhilarating and unforgettable way to experience the beauty of New York City from a whole new perspective. From the moment you take off, you’ll be immersed in stunning panoramic views of iconic landmarks, soaring skyscrapers, and breathtaking natural beauty.

With a rich history in the helicopter tourism industry, Open Door NYC has established itself as a top choice for adventure enthusiasts and travelers seeking a unique and thrilling experience. The commitment to safety, professionalism, and providing a truly memorable journey sets Open Door NYC apart from other tour operators.

As you fly over the Hudson River, witness the Statue of Liberty standing tall, embodying the spirit of freedom. Marvel at the epicenter of bustling city life as you pass over Times Square, with its dazzling lights and energy. Soak in the vibrant green oasis of Central Park from above, and be captivated by the architectural masterpiece of the Brooklyn Bridge.

Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable and experienced pilots of Open Door NYC provide insightful commentary, sharing historical facts and entertaining stories that deepen your connection to the city. Their expertise and passion for aviation and New York City truly enhance the overall experience.

Booking your Open Door NYC Helicopter Tour is a simple and convenient process, allowing you to secure your preferred date and time. With various tour options available, you can customize your experience to suit your interests and schedule.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, surprising a loved one, or simply seeking an adrenaline rush, Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours is the perfect choice. It offers a unique and thrilling adventure that will create lasting memories and provide a new perspective on the beauty and grandeur of the Big Apple.

Prepare to be amazed as you take to the skies and witness the stunning views of New York City with Open Door NYC Helicopter Tours. Book your tour today and be ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the skies of Manhattan.

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FlyNYON New York City Helicopter Tour With Open Doors | Would You Dare?

Are you ready for one of the ultimate New York travel adventures? Who does not want to fly in a helicopter over New York City? FlyNYON makes this possible and the best thing about it is that they offer a ride with open doors. The ultimate best thing to do in New York City for sure…

Their website says, ‘the ultimate New York helicopter photo experience’, which is what made me even more curious to try this New York City helicopter tour.

I visited this world famous city before, and did a lot of cool stuff already, but the one thing I didn’t do was a scenic helicopter flight over New York. When New York became part of my recent trip through the USA in October 2019, one thing I knew for certain, this time I was going to do a New York helicopter tour.

Also read about my experience on a helicopter ride over Niagara Falls  or more about this natural world wonder in my complete Niagara Falls USA travel guide .

New York City was the last place to visit during my road trip through the USA, so I had over three weeks to get super excited about this ultimate NYC experience.

The night before my flight I received a rather disturbing e-mail, a FlyNYON weather warning. Obviously, all flights are weather depending, but receiving such an e-mail, I just kept my fingers crossed the rest of the day.

Waking up on the day of my flight, I could see nothing but blue skies, would I be lucky, would today a dream come true? I got in the car and made my way to New Jersey, where the FlyNYON doors off flights depart from. Well, I was extremely lucky in the end, as the day of my flight turned out to be the most perfect day for a New York City helicopter ride, blue skies, sunny, just perfect!

Safety briefing FlyNYON

FlyNYON requires you to be at their hangar in New Jersey one hour and fifteen minutes before your scheduled flight. It sounds like a long time, but I get why they want you in early. Safety briefings are an important part of this New York helicopter tour. However, to be honest, in between the safety briefing and putting on the harness, there was a lot of waiting involved. And if you’re as excited as I was for my flight, waiting takes even longer.

Safety above all though! So make sure you get there in time, otherwise they might not be able to let you take this ultimate helicopter tour over New York.

FlyNYON Doors Open Helicopter Tour over New York

They have several flight options available, one for every budget. Also, if doors-off is not really your thing, they also offer ‘normal’ doors-on flights.

The difference between all available New York city helicopter tour is mainly the length of the flight, and of course what you get to see during the flight. The longer the flight, the more areas of New York city will be covered.

I did the doors-off NYC Classic flight from FlyNYON, a 30-minute flight covering all I wanted to see. Roughly everything from Central Park to the Statue of Liberty was included in my flight. This helicopter tour over New York also includes hovering above Central Park, the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center and the Statue of Liberty.

The FlyNYON hangar in New Jersey is located very close to Manhattan and offers amazing Manhattan skyline views pretty much straight after taking off. So have your eyes open and gear ready from the moment your New York City helicopter tour starts.

What Camera Gear is allowed?

Be aware that you’re only allowed two image capture devices per person on the doors-off flights. Tethers and / or cases for smartphones are provided by FlyNYON. All other photo equipment must have a strap to be securely attached. Lenses must remain attached to the body, if you want to shoot with more than one lens, then you must have more than one body. All accessories need to be removed before the flight.

FlyNYON also offers camera rental for your helicopter flight over New York. Feel like you want a more professional camera to capture this flight with? Just rent one! They provide you with a Canon camera, including an empty SD card. At the end of the helicopter flight you hand back the camera. The SD card full of images you just shot is yours!

Review FlyNYON helicopter tour

Doing the doors-off flight has been one of the most epic travel experiences of my life. New York is one of my most favorite cities in the world, I love every bit of it and thanks to FlyNYON now even more.

New York is an impressive city, whether it’s the crowded Times Square, or the massive 9/11 memorial. Being able to see New York from a helicopter, I landed back at the hangar with memories for a lifetime. It absolutely is one of the best things to do in New York.

Even though I know no one will take this advice, and you think I might be crazy and this might sound weird, I just have to say it. This flight is best experienced without cameras and phones! Of course you want to capture everything with your camera, but imagine not looking through a lens, but just fully enjoy the ride.

Of course I also took my camera and phone with me to capture every moment of this helicopter tour over New York, but as soon as I was back in the hangar I thought, this was the most amazing experience ever, but I have seen a lot of it through the screens of my devices. Think about it when booking a helicopter ride over New York city.

I can only recommend doing this doors-off flight when visiting New York. It’s an experience like nothing else, and you will see this city in a spectacular way, one you will never forget.

A big thank you to the FlyNYON team for having me on one of their doors off flights and for giving me an experience of a lifetime. Seeing New York City from a helicopter has been on my bucket list for a long time, what a way to tick it off. Whether it is your first visit to New York or your 10th, this is a must-do!

Travel writer and Traveltomtom team member Ashley did this amazing doors off flight with FlyNYON, while travelling through the USA and wrote this review about her bucketlist experience. More about my tour through the USA and Canada can be found in articles like: helicopter ride Niagara Falls , Sheraton Montreal , Intercontinental Washington DC The Wharf and many more...

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So Worth It

So worth it! Went for my boyfriends birthday and he loved flying the helicopter and I enjoyed sitting in the back watching him fly and the beautiful views! Our instructor was so nice and made our experience very enjoyable! Also, brand new 2018 helicopter made it even nicer. Would definitely do again! (Google)

Wings Air Did Not Disappoint

Didn’t really know what to expect since it was our first time flying in a helicopter, but Wings Air did not disappoint. The place is easy to get to, the beautiful, clean, staff is extremely friendly and accommodating and the flying experience was amazing! Our pilot, Johnathan made us feel extremely comfortable and safe on our 30-minute ride to the city. I was nervous going into it but his smooth sailing and reassurance relaxed me so I could experience the incredible views. 110% recommend going with Wings Air! (Google)

A Perfect Way To Start Our Recent New York Trip

A perfect way to start our recent New York trip. We took a helicopter with Lance from Midtown to Woodbury Common, with an NYC city tour included. Save yourself some time getting up there and catch some amazing views of the city at the same time! (Yelp)


Thank You Wings Air Helicopter Team

We had a lot of luggage to load as well but he and his team managed to fit it all in. Our little one then started singing a nursery rhyme to keep herself calm, Anthony knew the words and immediately joined in, it was magical our daughter, now calm, and the pilot singing as we took off. And what a flight it was, over the city, all the usual sights then up sate. Thank you, Anthony, Anna and all the Wings Helicopter team for your incredible professionalism and expertise, we were safe in your hands and can’t wait to fly with you again. (TripAdvisor)

Special Surprise Trip

We arranged a special surprise trip with Wings Helicopters for our 2 young daughters on Christs Eve last. Its was to be a tour of New York City, then a short flight to our final destination up sate. When we arrived at the Heliport on East 30th and told the girls our youngest burst into tears as she was so nervous of flying. Anthony, our pilot, took her in hand and was absolutely superb. (Trip Advisor)

The Flight Was Amazing

This was so much better than I expected!! We were picked up and driven to a lovely private airport with a nice waiting area where we were greeted by our pilot and his colleague who made us feel at ease. The flight was amazing and the pictures you take are out of this world. The pilot, Nick, will accommodate you in any way he can so you get the perfect picture and he has a great sense of humor! I would definitely do this again!! Thank you. (TripAdvisor)

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