What to Expect on This Daytime Manhattan Helicopter Tour
This video documents a 20-minute aerial tour of New York City with Charm Aviation, a helicopter operator based at 6 East River Greenway in lower Manhattan. The tour launches during daylight hours in summer and covers the full sweep of Manhattan's iconic landmarks—from the Statue of Liberty to Central Park—from a vantage point few travelers experience. If you've been considering a scenic flight over the city but aren't sure whether it's worth booking, this footage shows exactly what you'll see and helps you decide whether an aerial perspective of New York matters to you.
The experience suits anyone who wants to see Manhattan's geography and major attractions in a single flight, photographers seeking elevated cityscape shots, and travelers looking for a concentrated dose of "New York" in under an hour from check-in to landing. It's particularly appealing if you're short on time but want a memorable perspective that ground-level tours cannot match.
Key Moments
Key Sights and Stops on the Big Apple Route
- Governor Island—visible early in the flight as you depart lower Manhattan
- Statue of Liberty and Liberty Island—approached twice during the tour for extended viewing
- Central Park—captured in full from above, showing its scale and shape within the grid of Manhattan
- Hudson Yards and One World Observatory—the modern architectural heart of the city, clearly framed from the air
- Empire State Building and Bank of America Building—passed during the return leg of the tour
- Battery Park and Little Island—waterfront landmarks visible in the opening and closing segments
What You Should Know Before Booking Your Flight
- Flight Duration: Approximately 20 minutes in the air, plus check-in and boarding time at the base
- Location & Contact: Charm Aviation operates from 6 East River Greenway, NY 10004; phone (212) 786-5751; online at flycharmny.com
- Daytime Tours: The video captures a summer midday flight, offering bright, clear visibility and strong daylight for photography
- Tour Coverage: The "Big Apple" route includes the full Manhattan loop, starting and ending at Battery Park with water views throughout
- Best Time to Book: Tours fill quickly, especially in peak season, so advance booking is recommended
- What to Bring: A camera or smartphone for photos; the video was shot on iPhone 12 Pro Max and action cameras, showing that typical devices capture good footage
Frequently Asked Questions About Charm Aviation's Manhattan Helicopter Tour
How long is the actual flight time?
The tour is approximately 20 minutes in the air. Add extra time for check-in, safety briefing, and boarding before and after the flight.
What landmarks will I definitely see?
The Big Apple tour covers the Statue of Liberty (twice), Central Park, Hudson Yards, One World Observatory, the Empire State Building, Battery Park, and the full Manhattan waterfront. The exact sequence depends on flight conditions and air traffic.
Is this tour better in summer or other seasons?
Summer daylight flights offer clear visibility and long daylight hours, as shown in the video. Winter and overcast days may reduce visibility; always check weather forecasts before booking.
Can I take photos during the flight?
Yes. The video demonstrates that smartphones and action cameras capture clear aerial footage from the helicopter. Bring a camera charged and ready for takeoff.
Where do I go to check in?
Charm Aviation is located at 6 East River Greenway, NY 10004, near Battery Park in lower Manhattan. This is where you'll arrive for your flight.
