Helicopter Tours in New York
Helicopter tours over Manhattan, Liberty Island, and Central Park, departing from Downtown Manhattan Heliport. Flights run 12 to 20 minutes; longer combo routes loop the harbor and the bridges before heading back.
NY Helicopter Tour: New York City Skyline from New Jersey
from 25 to 30 minutes · ★ 4.8 (1643)
From $331
The Empire Tour - The Empire Tour (public) - USD
30 minutes · ★ 4.9 (1828)
From $434
Liberty Harbor Helicopter Tour
15 minutes · ★ 4.8 (2781)
From $259
Big City Helicopter Tour
20 minutes · ★ 4.9 (2654)
From $279
Helicopter Tours
Private NYC Scenic Charter from Manhattan
★ 5.0 (1170)
From $4690
NYC Night Lights - From New Jersey - NYC Night Lights - From New Jersey (public) - USD
30 minutes · ★ 4.5 (2101)
From $334
Deluxe Manhattan Helicopter Tour
from 18 to 20 minutes · ★ 4.4 (1260)
From $324
New York City: 30-Minute Helicopter from New Jersey
30 minutes · ★ 4.8 (560)
From $240
The Manhattan Tour - The Manhattan Tour (public) - USD
15 minutes · ★ 4.3 (1783)
From $294
Helicopter Tours
Classic Manhattan Helicopter Tour
15 minutes · ★ 4.9 (1764)
From $259
Helicopter Tours
Shared NYC Tour from Westchester
★ 4.7 (25)
From $415
Helicopter Tours
New York City: 20-minute Helicopter Tour from Manhattan
20 minutes · ★ 4.6 (1425)
From $282
About
Helicopter tours leave from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport (Pier 6) and cover the major sights from a few hundred feet up. The standard route arcs over Liberty Island, around the Statue of Liberty, past the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges, and back over the Financial District. Longer routes add Central Park and a pass along the Hudson.
Flights are short — 12 to 20 minutes is typical — but the view density is high. All passengers get a window seat on most operators. Bookings are weight-balanced for safety, so the booking flow may ask for passenger weights before confirming.
Weather can ground flights with little notice. Most operators reschedule for no extra cost, and full refunds apply when cancellations come from the operator. Check the cancellation policy on each tour page before booking.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a typical helicopter tour?
The standard tour is 12–15 minutes in the air, with a 30–60 minute total experience including check-in, safety briefing, and boarding. Longer routes run 20–25 minutes in the air.
Where do helicopter tours depart from?
Downtown Manhattan Heliport at Pier 6, on the East River near the Staten Island Ferry terminal. The closest subway is Whitehall Street (R, W) or Bowling Green (4, 5). Allow 30 minutes for check-in.
Is there a weight limit for passengers?
Yes. For safety, total cabin weight is capped. Most operators ask for individual weights at booking. Passengers over 250 lbs (113 kg) may need to book an additional seat — confirmed before payment.
Do all seats have a window?
Yes on most operators, with passengers grouped by weight to balance the aircraft. Center seats on a four-passenger aircraft share window views. Check the seat layout on the tour page.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights ground for low visibility, high winds, or thunderstorms. Operators reschedule at no cost when they cancel, with a full refund if you can't make a new slot. Passenger-initiated cancellations follow the standard policy.
Can I bring a camera or phone?
Yes. Loose items must be on a wrist strap or in a pocket — nothing handheld out an open door. Selfie sticks and tripods are not allowed.
Are helicopter tours noisy or rough?
Noise-canceling headsets are provided. The ride is generally smooth in good weather, with mild turbulence on windy days. Most flights are comfortable for first-time helicopter passengers.
Is there a minimum age?
Most operators allow children from 2 years old, with kids under 2 not permitted. Children under 18 must fly with a parent or guardian. Specific age rules are listed on each tour page.