Top New York City Helicopter Tours

There are many options for New York City helicopter tours with positive reviews from customers, but some top-rated ones include: 

• New York Helicopter Tour: Manhattan Highlights
• New York Helicopter Tour: Ultimate Manhattan Sightseeing
• New York Helicopter Tour: City Lights Skyline Experience
• New York Helicopter Tour: Manhattan, Brooklyn and Staten Island
• New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour

A helicopter ride in NYC usually costs from US$200 to US$350 per person, depending on the length of the ride and the location of the heliport from which you depart. Most helicopter tours are shared with other passengers, but a private tour can cost around US$2,000 per group.

Yes, a helicopter ride in NYC is worth it. Helicopters give you a bird’s-eye view of the Big Apple and let you see the true expanse of the city across all five boroughs. Travelers looking for an adrenaline rush will find a helicopter ride an exhilarating sightseeing option.

There's no bad time of day for an NYC helicopter ride. The morning may offer softer light best for photography, though nothing beats a sunset view for romantic vibes. Some tours offer nighttime options, which are great for seeing the glittering lights of the City That Never Sleeps from above.

The 5-minute helicopter ride from Midtown Manhattan to JFK airport typically costs US$200 per passenger. One option is a helicopter transfer that includes a sightseeing tour; you can meet your pilot at your arrival airport, see the Big Apple's major sites from the sky, and then get dropped off at the heliport of your choosing.

Helicopters are expensive machines to own and operate, and trustworthy tour providers put the money you spend into maintaining vehicles that are safe for all passengers. Operating a helicopter requires training pilots, high insurance and fuel costs, and expensive storage and repairs, which contribute to a safer and more comfortable ride.

There are tons of fun tours and excursions in New York City aside from helicopter tours. According to previous travelers, these are the best activities to book for your next trip:

• Walking Tours

• Night Cruises

• Hop-On Hop-Off Buses

• Sunset Cruises

• Bus Tours

New York City helicopter tour prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now:

• Taste of New York Helicopter Tour From Kearny, NJ

• Kearny, NJ: Highlights of NYC Helicopter Tour

• New York City Helicopter Tour With Statue of Liberty Views

• Liberty Helicopter Tour

• New York City Skyline Helicopter Tour From Kearny, New Jersey

New York City helicopter tours are typically short, ranging from 12 to 35 minutes. The longer the flight, the higher the price. Shorter flights are ideal if you’re on a lower budget, and you will still see a lot—but you’ll see much more on a longer ride. Some flights are just for you and your party, while others you may need to share with strangers. A private flight is the best way to ensure a great seat.

Get your camera or phone ready before takeoff because there’s little time to fumble around once you’re in the air. Helicopters are very noisy—you’ll be given ear muffs to block the noise and to hear your pilot’s commentary, but consider bringing earplugs if you’re sensitive to noise or traveling with kids.

Yes, children can ride in helicopters in New York City so that the whole family can enjoy a sightseeing flight. Some operators have age or height restrictions, and many offer discounted (or free) flights for younger children, so a family heli flight might not be as costly as you expect. Note that some kids might be uncomfortable with the noise in the helicopter.