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New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour

Badge of ExcellenceNew York City, USA
New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour
  • 20 minutes
  • Flight time: 18 to 20 minutes
  • Mobile ticket
  • Offered in: English

Overview

New York's iconic landmarks, mighty rivers, and islands are even more impressive from the air. On this tour, soar over Manhattan’s most famous sights in a helicopter and enjoy spectacular aerial views of the Big Apple. There's plenty of time time to see Liberty Island, the Empire State Building, and Governor’s Island, all while enjoying perspectives that few other visitors to the city get to see.
  • New York City helicopter flight over famous landmarks
  • Unbeatable views as you fly face-to-face with the Statue of Liberty
  • See Times Square, Madison Square Garden, Central Park and more
  • Learn more about NYC from your pilot's live commentary

Why Travelers Choose This Tour

This helicopter tour includes extra flight time so you can fly over Governor’s Island

What's Included

  • 18-20-minute Helicopter tour
  • Local Taxes
  • Gratuities
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • The listed price does not include a USD40.00 per person (including infants) heliport/security fee

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

  • 6 East River Piers, New York, NY 10004, USA

    Google Maps provides the correct navigation route, all other navigation options will take you to Chelsea Piers. Please ensure the end of route address matches the address above. Located on Pier 6 (2 Building North of Staten Island ferry and the East River). Look for Zip Aviation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Your flight departs from Downtown Manhattan’s Heliport. From there it’s on to Governor’s Island, which was once a Revolutionary US Army post. Next, soar past the towering figure of the Statue of Liberty, enjoying an up-close encounter with one of the nation’s most powerful landmarks. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture memorable shots of this icon of freedom.

Bid farewell to Lady Liberty as your pilot takes you over the sobering location of Ground Zero and the 9/11 Memorial. After that, the helicopter heads north above the mighty Hudson River where you're treated to the sight of two magnificent art-deco landmarks: the Chrysler and Empire State Buildings.

Continue your flight north over New York’s tribute to nature, Central Park. From there, catch sight of the George Washington Bridge, Times Square, and renowned entertainment arena Madison Square Garden. Continue back toward the river to enjoy a look at the powerful WWII warship the USS Intrepid before hovering over Ellis Island, the nation’s historic tribute to immigration. This helicopter tour allows you to enjoy all of New York City’s most famous sites without having to battle the crowds.

A scenic helicopter tour offers a truly extraordinary way to see New York City. Don’t miss the chance to experience the city from this remarkable vantage point.

Please note: The listed price does not include the heliport/security fee, payable at the time of tour check-in.

Statue of Liberty

Admission Ticket Free

Empire State Building

Admission Ticket Free

Ellis Island

Admission Ticket Free

Central Park

Admission Ticket Free

Times Square

Admission Ticket Free

George Washington Bridge

Admission Ticket Free

Governors Island National Monument

Admission Ticket Free

Manhattan Skyline

Admission Ticket Free

Madison Square Garden

Admission Ticket Free

Zip Aviation - Helicopter Tours & Charters

Admission Ticket Free

Additional Info

  • Total weight per passenger: 300 lbs
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Infants must sit on laps
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Stroller accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Near public transportation
  • Transportation is wheelchair accessible
  • Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
  • Most travelers can participate
  • Check-in is 45 minutes prior to the scheduled flight time. Failure to do so may result in extended wait times or forfeiture of flight.
  • A $40 (USD) heliport fee per person (including infants) is due at check-in.
  • Due to comfort and weight / balance of the aircraft, passengers weighing over 250lbs (113kgs) will be required to purchase an additional seat. This is payable directly to the tour operator on the day of the tour. 300-lb (136kg) maximum weight per passenger.
  • All passengers including children must have a government-issued ID/Passport or you may be denied your flight.
  • Please note, that audio language selection is not guaranteed and is based on availability. Should more than 2 languages be requested on the same flight, the audio commentary may default to English. Due to the unpredictable nature of technical difficulties, we cannot provide assurance for the audio functionality of the headsets.
  • All flight times are approximate and subject to change due to weather conditions and weight restrictions.
  • Infants 24 months and younger must sit on an adult's lap
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.

Filter by:

Q:What is the departure location for the New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour?

A:The helicopter tour departs from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport at Pier 6 on the East River. The building is located just north of the Staten Island Ferry and just south of the Pier 11 South Street Seaport. (6 East River Piers, NY NY 10004)

Apr 2021

Q:Can I take public transportation to get to the New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour?

A:Public transportation can be taken from anywhere in Manhattan using the MTA Subway. You want to take the R train to the Whitehall stop and walk north past the Staten Island Ferry to the gray two-story building on the right with the large clock on it.

Apr 2021

Q:Is there parking near the departure point for the New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour?

A:Parking is not available at the heliport, but there is a cash municipal parking lot at the next exit just west of Pier 11.

Apr 2021

Q:How early should I arrive for the New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour?

A:Please arrive one hour prior to your confirmed flight time.

Apr 2021

Q:Do I have to go through security before the New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour?

A:Yes. When you approach the heliport, a representative will accompany you to a security checkpoint where you are scanned by a metal detector to ensure safety.

Apr 2021

Q:Do I need an ID to fly on the New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour?

A:Yes, all passengers including children must have ID/Passport or you may be denied your flight.

Apr 2021

Q:What type of helicopter is used during the New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour?

A:The fleet includes luxurious six-passenger Bell 407 aircraft.

Apr 2021

Q:How many seats are there on the New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour?

A:The Bell 407 helicopter carries six passengers in addition to your professional pilot and boasts comfortable leather seating, more headroom, and luxurious amenities.

Apr 2021

Q:Can I request a specific seat during the New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour?

A:Seating in the helicopter is arranged by weight and balance to maximize safety and security. Persons with disabilities are accommodated accordingly. You may make a request, but it cannot be guaranteed.

Apr 2021

Q:What can I bring with me on the New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour?

A:You are permitted to bring a camera, phone, and glasses/sunglasses aboard the aircraft. Purses, bags, handbags, camera bags, scarves, hats, and other loose items of clothing need to stay at the heliport in a private, secure locker.

Apr 2021

Traveler Photos

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Featured review
Kate_M
Incredible from start to finish! I was in two minds about whether to book a day or night tour but chose the day and the views were spectacular, down by the Statue of Liberty and around by Central Park, I think the views in the day light were probably better to take in rather than at night - I've also done helicopters in Vegas and would only do that at night!! Would highly recommend not missing this, even as a once off, treat yourself!

Reviews

4.5
739 reviews
Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews
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Reviews by Viator travelers.
Showing 1-10 of 739 reviews
The staff was so friendly...
Therese_A, Mar 2024
The staff was so friendly and professional. Enjoyed every minute , can highly recommend. Me and my daughter will never forget the experience
Response from Host, Apr 2024
Hello Therese, Thank you for your review and recommendation. We truly appreciate it! Cheers!
Great time.
jamescthomasson, Feb 2024
It was fantastic. Loved being able to see the whole city at once. Worth it for sure! Loved it so much I would do it again!
Response from Host, Feb 2024
Hello jamescthomasson, Thank you for your review. So happy to hear you had a great time! Cheers!
Bad
LILOU_D, Feb 2024
I'll start with the negative: a long wait before being picked up,the departure time was not respected,we had calculated for a sunset flight,so it was already dark when we took off,a big disappointment.Many people passed us by without explanation even though our time had already passed.On the other hand, the helicopter flight was Beautiful.But the fact that we felt left out from the start spoiled the fun for us.Poor organization on site.
Response from Host, Feb 2024
Hello LILOU_D, Thank you for leaving a review. Sorry to hear that you had a long wait. Sometimes this happens when the passengers you were grouped with have not checked-in yet. We will direct our Heliport Staff to make sure they are in constant communication with waiting passengers so everybody knows what's going one. Our sincerest apologies.
Brilliant
Clare_H, Feb 2024
Amazing 20 mins but felt like 2 Loved narration and music on flight all very professional thank you So good
Response from Host, Feb 2024
Hello Clare_H, Thank you for your review. Glad to her you had a great time! Cheers!
Fun but beware
Heather_L, Jan 2024
It was nice but just know when you show up you will have to pay MORE $$$ for the land strip fees which we weren’t expecting. Also, our headsets didn’t work properly and they were wanting to Put music for a us to listen to which was a bummer and we were hoping that the Pilot would tell us the sights (which did not happen). I thought I paid an hour which turned out it literally was only 20 minutes. Everyone was very polite and helpful. I would recommend this company.
Response from Host, Jan 2024
Hello Heather, Thank you for your review and your recommendation. Cheers!
Amazing life changing experience
Julie_M, Jan 2024
Very rare in peoples lives u get to experience something as magical as this... Do it!!.... Absolutely amazing... Love it ❤️
Response from Host, Jan 2024
Hello Julie, What a great review. Glad to hear you had an amazing time! Cheers!
Amazing helicopter tour
Colin_S, Dec 2023
Just an incredible experience. Very well organised and the flight was just so smooth. Would highly recommend for those looking for a treat.
Response from Host, Jan 2024
Hello Colin, Thank you for your review and recommendation! Cheers!
Separated
Jichul_J, Dec 2023
I companied with my fiancé for Christmas. Crews were kind and hospitalized. The tour was excellent, but they let us signed the seat separated. That’s totally unexpected and felt like ruined the tour. Even they didn’t explain of it. I think they should have to be cared about the situation of detail. Fortunately, my fiancé had seen more than she expected cuz she was assigned next to pilot. Anyway I felt like it was something missed during the trip.
Response from Host, Jan 2024
Hello! Thank you for your review. Our apologies if it wasn't explained why you were seated apart. Just making sure everyone who reads this is aware that seats are assigned based on weight in order for the helicopter to achieve balance. Please note that there is a possibility you will not be sitting together. Thank you.
Top of the world
jack_t, Dec 2023
Perfect in every way, very professional and great trip. Recommend to anyone wanting to see New York from above.
Response from Host, Jan 2024
Hello Jack, Thank you!! Cheers!
Fantastic trip
Ricky_D, Dec 2023
Fantastic experience! Very well organised. A once in a lifetime experience. Perfect for a birthday celebration for our daughter.
Response from Host, Jan 2024
Hello Ricky, Thank you for leaving a review. Glad we were able to give your daughter an unforgettable birthday experience! Cheers!
Cramped
Aimeekate_D, Dec 2023
I was sat in the middle of 2 people so although the experience was incredible to be going in a helicopter after spending £500 I couldn’t see much at all and was cramped against strangers. Was really dissatisfied considering the price and how much I was looking forward.
Response from Host, Jan 2024
Hello! Thank you for your review. So sorry to hear about your experience. For others reading this review, please consider a Private Tour by buying all six seats. This way, it's just you and your group. Thank you.
Stunning
Lois_B, Nov 2023
Breath taking views of New York City from above. Music through the headphones was an amazing extra feature to have, emotional
Response from Host, Nov 2023
Hello Lois, What a wonderful review! Thank you! Cheers!
Family helikopter tour.
raymond_w, Oct 2023
Very nice tour. Niice staff. Smooth flying. Family was very excited. Exided our families expectations.
Response from Host, Oct 2023
Hello! Thank you for your review. We're so happy you had a smooth and great Tour! We love hosting families, thank you for your trust! Cheers!
Flying delight
Robert_m, Oct 2023
Excellent communication even on the day of departure as we were running a few minutes late. Brilliant flight and well looked after from the moment we stepped inside the building.
Response from Host, Oct 2023
Hello Robert, Thank you for your review. We're so glad you had a delightful time flying with us! Cheers!
Unfair and Inferior Experience
Hao_D, Sep 2023
Completely dissatisfied with this. Having paid the same as everyone else I found myself directed to a rear facing seat with limited view compared to everyone else and a commentary of approaching sights I couldn't see and therefore could make no sense of. I had no idea that on the basis apparently of what I weighed I would be disadvantaged and at that point had no option to object. I had a vastly inferior experience to forward facing passengers with better visibility/ views and a commentary they could relate to. I complained and was offered no rebate on my payment. I was simply told they weren't responsible for the design of the aircraft. I do not accept this as they are entirely responsible for how I was seated. This is completely unfair and I could not enjoy the experience. Everyone paying the full amount should have the right to the same experience. Very disappointed and angry. I would urge anyone I know not to do this unless they are prepared to be the unfortunate person who gets the rear facing seat with the small window
Response from Host, Oct 2023
Hello! Sorry to hear about your experience. With a shared flight, there will be a total of six passengers in the Helicopter. Seating is based on weight so the Helicopter can achieve balance and be able to fly safely. A Private Tour is always an option for those who want to choose their seats. Our apologies.
Fantastic
Kevin_O, Jul 2023
Fantastic experience, a must do in NYC. Once in a lifetime that you'll never regret. Puts a permanent smile on your face
Response from Host, Aug 2023
Hello Kevin, We totally agree! This is an experience you'll never regret and forget! Cheers!
Just okay, wouldn’t recommend for how expensive it is.
Kimberly_M, Jul 2023
Waited over an hour to be called for my ride, seemed like they were just trying to wait for the right number of people to come along to squeeze together. The company asked me to be there 45 min early to check in only to have me wait over my scheduled time, watching others that came after us go before us. The e-mail stated being late would cancel the ride and “no refund” would be given no excuses. But it’s okay to have me wait over an hour? Does that mean I should ask for my money back? Only after I complained about the wait time did they suddenly call me and my husband for our flight which was a birthday present for him. Flight was supposed to include a tour, which is just a pre recording of some sights in over the city but it was so low you couldn’t even hear anything. Pilot didn’t speak at all just to say hi and bye even telling us he was going to mute us. Not interactive at all. My husband and I were crammed with 3 other people on the tiny helicopter being stepped over and knees hitting each other the whole time it was very uncomfortable making it hard to enjoy the experience. One of the other people with us was speaking into the microphone so loudly the entire time and literally putting his mouth on the mic. Which made me realize they didn’t clean or disinfect anything between rides, right before we got on another group was just getting off and while we were coming out another group was waiting to go in. So I know for a fact at least the helicopter we used was not cleaned before or after. We left very disappointed, for the flight being extremely expensive and not even get a real tour. I’ve been on other flights before and this was the worst. Also had to pay $40 per person for an additional helipad fee, I checked other companies and none asked for this. Should be included in the price, after spending almost $600 already. Wouldn’t fly again with this company or recommend.
Response from Host, Jul 2023
Hello. Thank you for leaving your review. It's definitely not what we want our customers to feel or experience. We're sorry you did not have a good Tour. Thank you.
The Best Way To See Manhattan
noel_b, Jul 2023
Wonderful times in New York topped off with a brilliant Helicopter trip over Manhattan. Well worth the money for the experience of a life time.
Response from Host, Jul 2023
Hello Noel, We totally agree. It's the best way to see our wonderful and beautiful city. Cheers!
Wow and just wow
Matthew_D, May 2023
Wow what can we say? Our pilot Laura was fantastic. Smooth flight and some great tunes for us to listen to on the way. Class service with a confirmation call before we arrived and then the safety info and away we went. Wall to wall sunshine on our flight so the views were amazing. Five star
Response from Host, Jun 2023
Hello Matthew, Thank you for your review. We will tell Pilot Laura about your comments. Cheers!
Childhood dream came to reality.
Katerina_N, May 2023
As a teen back home in Czech Republic I dreamed of taking my baby sister to NYC one day and experiencing something amazing. 30 years later it became reality. Absolutely amazing experience.
Response from Host, Jun 2023
Hello! Thank you for sharing this heartwarming story. Thank you for trusting us with this incredible dream. Cheers!
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From $279.00

up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)

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