Manhattan skyline from the sky
🇺🇸 Helicopter Tour — 2026 Guide

Fly over New York in a helicopter: an unforgettable experience

Compare the different helicopter flight options over Manhattan: 15, 20, or 30 minutes. Find the perfect option for your trip.

4+
certified companies
15-30 min
flight duration
from $249
per person
3 options to fly over New York in a helicopter 🚁
FAA certified companies

Licensed professional pilots

Free cancellation

Up to 24h before the flight

Instant confirmation

Book online in 2 mins

Tested and recommended

Thousands of positive reviews

Why take a helicopter tour in New York?

Flying over Manhattan in a helicopter is one of the most spectacular experiences you can have in New York. From the sky, you will discover the skyline from a totally unique angle, with breathtaking panoramas of the most iconic monuments.

  • Unique panoramic view — Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Central Park, One World Trade Center seen from the sky
  • Live commentary — The pilot guides you along the route with fascinating explanations
  • Memorable photos and videos — Breathtaking shots you could never take anywhere else
  • Accessible to everyone — No experience required, suitable for the whole family (children from 2 years old)
View from the cockpit of a helicopter flying over Manhattan

Comprehensive comparison of helicopter flights

Find all the options, durations, and prices to choose the flight that fits your desires and budget.

Scroll to see all columns
Package Duration What you'll see Heliport Price Book
Manhattan Tour Budget 12-15 min Statue of Liberty, Empire State, Central Park, Times Square Pier 6, Manhattan $249 View offer
Big Apple Tour Top Pick 17-20 min The essentials + Yankee Stadium, Harlem, the Bronx, Columbia, Palisades Pier 6, Manhattan $279 View offer
Empire Tour Complete 25-30 min Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island, Verrazzano Bridge, Hudson River Pier 6, Manhattan $350 View offer

The 3 detailed flight itineraries

Each route takes you over New York's most iconic landmarks. The longer the flight, the more you'll see.

15-minute helicopter flight — the essentials of Manhattan

15 min flight — The Essentials

Departure from downtown Manhattan. You will fly over the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, and get a glimpse of Central Park. The most affordable option to discover the skyline.

Charm Aviation helicopter flying over New York

20 min flight — Best value for money

All the sights of the 15 min flight, plus the Yankee Stadium, Trinity Church, Columbia University, and the George Washington Bridge. The formula recommended by travelers.

30-minute helicopter flight — full tour of New York

30 min flight — Full Tour

The most immersive experience: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Coney Island, the Verrazzano Bridge, Staten Island, and the Hudson River. For those who want to see it all, without compromise.

New York helicopter flight prices

Prices vary depending on the flight duration. Heliport fees are included in the displayed prices.

Short flight
12-15 minutes
from $249

Downtown Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. Ideal for a first flight or a tight budget.

Recommended flight ♥️
17-20 minutes
from $279

Best value for money. Full Manhattan with the Bronx. Heliport fees included.

Full flight
25-30 minutes
from $350

Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island. The ultimate experience to be amazed.

Heliports and companies

The main companies and departure points for your New York helicopter tour.

Downtown Manhattan Heliport

Pier 6, Financial District. Main departure point for day flights.

Kearny Heliport

New Jersey. For doors-off flights.

Zip Aviation / Charm Aviation

Recommended company. 15, 20, and 30 min flights.

HeliNY

Another renowned company with a modern fleet.

6 tips for your helicopter flight

Our best tips to fully enjoy your New York flight.

1

Book at the beginning of your stay

In case of bad weather, your flight will be rescheduled. Plan it early to have a margin for rescheduling before you leave.

2

Prefer a weekday

Flights on weekdays are often $10 to $20 cheaper than on weekends, and flight conditions are generally calmer.

3

Arrive 30 minutes early

Allow 30 minutes before takeoff for check-in, safety briefing, and boarding the helicopter.

4

Prioritize the 20 min flight

It's the best value for money according to travelers. You will see the must-haves without breaking the bank.

5

Prepare your camera

Charge your phone or camera to 100%. Video mode is ideal for capturing the panorama continuously. Avoid using the flash.

6

Fees are included

Good news: heliport fees are included in the displayed price. No bad surprises on the day of the flight!

What travelers say

Feedback from travelers who have flown over New York

★★★★★ 4.7/5 — based on hundreds of reviews
SC
★★★★★
Sophie C. 20 min flight March 2026

A magical experience! The view of Manhattan from the sky is breathtaking. The 20-minute flight is perfect, you see all the main monuments. The pilot was super nice and gave lots of info. A must-do!

AB
★★★★☆
Amélie B. 15 min flight January 2026

Very beautiful flight, but 15 minutes goes by fast! If I had to do it again, I would take the 20 minutes for just a little more money. The view of the Statue of Liberty from the sky remains etched in my memory.

Frequently asked questions about helicopter flights

Yes, it is highly recommended. Spots sell out fast, especially during high season (summer, school holidays, end-of-year holidays). Book as soon as your travel dates are set to secure a slot.

If weather conditions do not allow for takeoff, your flight is simply rescheduled to another date at no additional cost. This is why it is advisable to schedule the flight at the beginning of your stay.

Helicopters generally accommodate a maximum of 6 passengers. Everyone gets a window seat, so you will have an unobstructed view regardless of where you sit.

The total weight of the passengers is distributed to balance the aircraft. People over 113 kg (250 lbs) may be required to purchase an additional seat. Inquire with the company when booking.

Yes, children aged 2 and up are accepted. Babies under 2 can travel on an adult's lap. Children pay the same rate as adults.

Mornings generally offer the best visibility and fewer turbulences. Sunset is the most photogenic. Each time slot has its advantages!

The most reputable companies are Zip Aviation, Charm Aviation, HeliNY, Liberty Helicopter Tours NYC, and Manhattan Helicopter. All are certified by the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration).