There is no cityscape in the world as iconic as New York City. While walking its streets is an experience in itself, seeing that legendary skyline from the air is something else entirely. A New York City Helicopter Tour provides a sense of scale and a perspective that you just can’s get from the top of an observation deck. It allows you to see how all the famous landmarks connect, from the tip of the Financial District to the green expanse of Central Park.
Choosing the right tour can seem complicated with different departure points and flight lengths. My goal is to break down the essentials so you can confidently book the best aerial experience of the city that never sleeps.
The Iconic Sights from Above
Every New York City Helicopter Tour is a highlight reel of the world’s most famous landmarks. Due to flight restrictions, tours fly along the Hudson River corridor, which provides spectacular views. You can expect to see:
- The Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island:Â Get an incredible, up-close view of Lady Liberty and the historic gateway to America.
- The Manhattan Skyline: See it all, including the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and the towering One World Trade Center.
- Iconic Bridges: Enjoy a fantastic perspective of the historic Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan Bridge.
- Extended Sights: Longer tours often fly further up the Hudson, offering views of Central Park, Yankee Stadium, and the George Washington Bridge.
The Key Decision: Manhattan vs. New Jersey Departures
Where your flight departs from is the biggest factor in the cost and style of your tour.
- Manhattan Departures: Flying from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport is incredibly convenient if you’re already in the city. However, these tours are generally more expensive and often have shorter flight times due to high demand and operational costs. Note that due to city regulations, no flights operate from this heliport on Sundays.
- New Jersey Departures (Kearny/Linden): These heliports are a short drive from Manhattan. The tours from New Jersey are almost always more affordable and often feature longer flight times. They are also the primary location for the popular doors-off helicopter tours. A major advantage is seeing the entire Manhattan skyline come into view as you approach the city.
25 New York City Helicopter Tour FAQ’s
1. Question: What famous landmarks will I see on a New York City Helicopter Tour?
Answer: You’ll get an unparalleled view of Manhattan’s iconic skyline. Key sights always include the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, One World Trade Center, and the Brooklyn Bridge. Longer tours can also include views of Central Park, Yankee Stadium, and the George Washington Bridge.
2. Question: Where do New York City Helicopter Tours depart from?
Answer: There are two main departure areas: the Downtown Manhattan Heliport (near Wall Street) and heliports in New Jersey (typically in Kearny or Linden), which are a short drive from Manhattan.
3. Question: What is the difference between departing from Manhattan vs. New Jersey?
Answer: Departing from Manhattan is convenient if you are already downtown, but these tours are often more expensive and may have shorter flight times. Tours from New Jersey are usually more affordable, often have longer flight durations, and include the entire Manhattan skyline in view as you approach and depart the city.
4. Question: How long are the flights?
Answer: Flight times typically range from 12-15 minutes for a basic tour to 25-30 minutes for a more comprehensive flight. The duration directly impacts how many landmarks you will see, with longer flights covering more of the city.
5. Question: Why don’t the helicopters fly directly over Manhattan or Central Park?
Answer: Due to strict FAA regulations and security measures in the post-9/11 era, helicopters are not permitted to fly directly over most of Manhattan. The standard flight path is along the Hudson River and around the tip of Manhattan, which still provides spectacular, close-up views of the entire skyline, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.
6. Question: Are doors-off New York City Helicopter Tours available?
Answer: Yes! Doors-off flights are a very popular option, especially for photographers and thrill-seekers. They offer a completely unobstructed, reflection-free view of the city. These tours almost always depart from the New Jersey heliports.
7. Question: What should I wear for a doors-off flight?
Answer: Dress in layers, even in summer, as it will be significantly colder and windier at altitude. A jacket is essential. All loose items like hats, scarves, and bags are prohibited. Phones and cameras must be secured with a neck or wrist strap.
8. Question: What is the best time of day for an NYC helicopter tour?
Answer: This depends on your preference. Daytime tours offer clear, vibrant views of the city’s architecture. Sunset tours are magical, allowing you to see the city transition from day to night with spectacular colors. Night tours showcase the dazzling, iconic lights of the city that never sleeps.
9. Question: How far in advance should I book my flight?
Answer: Book as far in advance as you can, especially for sunset flights or tours on weekends. A New York City Helicopter Tour is one of the most popular tourist activities, and spots fill up quickly.
10. Question: Are there weight restrictions on these tours?
Answer: Yes, every tour has a strict weight limit per seat for safety, typically around 250-275 lbs. Passengers exceeding this limit may be required to purchase a second seat. You will be weighed before your flight.
11. Question: What happens if the weather is bad?
Answer: Safety is the top priority. Flights will be canceled by the operator in case of high winds, heavy rain, or low cloud cover. If your tour is canceled, the company will offer to reschedule your flight or provide a full refund.
12. Question: Can I get a good photo even if I’m not in a window seat?
Answer: Yes. Modern tour helicopters are designed with large windows for sightseeing. Seating is based on weight distribution for safety, but everyone will have a great view. Pilots often make turns to ensure passengers on both sides get fantastic photo opportunities.
13. Question: What should I wear for a standard (doors-on) tour?
Answer: Wear comfortable clothing. It’s highly recommended to wear dark colors to reduce the glare and reflections in the helicopter windows, which will significantly improve your photos.
14. Question: Which companies offer a New York City Helicopter Tour?
Answer: There are several reputable operators. Popular companies include FlyNYON (known for doors-off), Liberty Helicopter Tours, HeliNY, and New York Helicopter Tours. Always check recent reviews and safety records.
15. Question: Is a helicopter tour better than an observation deck like the Empire State Building?
Answer: They offer very different perspectives. An observation deck gives you a static, panoramic view. A New York City Helicopter Tour is a dynamic experience that allows you to see the relationship between all the major landmarks—from the Statue of Liberty to Central Park—in one sweeping, thrilling journey.
16. Question: Are children allowed on the flights?
Answer: Yes, most tours are family-friendly. Children under two often fly for free on a parent’s lap (proof of age required). Doors-off tours have a strict minimum age for safety, so be sure to check with the operator if you are flying with kids.
17. Question: What can I bring on the helicopter with me?
Answer: Only a camera or your phone is allowed in the cabin. All bags, purses, hats, and loose items must be stored in free lockers at the heliport before the flight. This is a strict security and safety rule.
18. Question: How early do I need to arrive for my tour?
Answer: You should plan to arrive 45 to 60 minutes before your scheduled flight. This allows time for check-in, security screening, a safety briefing, and storing your belongings.
19. Question: Do the pilots provide narration?
Answer: Yes, passengers are provided with headsets to hear live commentary from the pilot, who will point out the famous landmarks and share interesting facts as you fly by them.
20. Question: Is a New York City Helicopter Tour scary?
Answer: For most people, it’s an exhilarating and smooth ride. The professional pilots and state-of-the-art aircraft make for a very secure-feeling experience. The incredible views quickly replace any nervousness you might feel.
21. Question: Are private tours available?
Answer: Yes, you can charter a private helicopter for a more personal experience. This is a popular option for marriage proposals, special celebrations, or professional photography assignments.
22. Question: Will I fly by Yankee Stadium?
Answer: Longer tours, often called ‘Grand Island’ or ‘Deluxe’ tours, typically extend the flight path north up the Hudson River, providing excellent aerial views of Yankee Stadium in the Bronx.
23. Question: Are the heliport fees included in the ticket price?
Answer: This is important to check. Many tour prices do not include a mandatory heliport/security fee, which is payable per person upon check-in. Always read the booking details carefully to understand the total cost.
24. Question: Is it possible to fly on a Sunday from the Manhattan heliport?
Answer: No. Due to a city agreement to reduce noise, sightseeing helicopter flights are not permitted to operate from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport on Sundays.
25. Question: Is a New York City Helicopter Tour worth the money?
Answer: It is an expensive activity, but most visitors consider it a once-in-a-lifetime experience and the absolute highlight of their trip. The ability to see the entire iconic skyline from such a unique vantage point is truly unforgettable and provides a perspective of the city’s scale that you can’t get any other way.
So, is a helicopter tour of New York City actually worth it? Here’s my take: seeing the skyline from the top of a skyscraper is one thing, but flying at eye-level with it is something else entirely. It’s the difference between looking at a picture and stepping inside it.
You get to see all the landmarks you’ve heard about your whole life—the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge—all in one incredible, non-stop view. Yes, it’s a splurge, but it’s an experience that delivers a huge “wow” factor that you’ll remember long after the trip is over.
We’ve already compared the different tours and companies to make picking one easier. When you’re ready, head over and check out our guide to the Best New York City Helicopter Tours and reviews.
