2 Outstanding Helicopter Flights & Tours In Newark

Newark is often seen as a gateway city, but its strategic location makes it a fantastic starting point for helicopter tours that offer spectacular aerial views of the New York City skyline and beyond. With Newark’s proximity to major airports like LaGuardia, JFK, and its own Essex County Airport, you can seamlessly combine a quick helicopter transfer with sightseeing flights. These tours bring a new perspective to iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Brooklyn Bridge, all visible from a vantage point only accessible from above. Whether you’re looking to add a dash of adventure to your trip or need a stylish way to arrive in Manhattan, Newark’s helicopter experiences deliver a memorable dose of excitement.

While many travelers flock to Manhattan for its skyline, Newark offers the convenience of departure points and opportunities for unique helicopter experiences that are just as impressive. From a breathtaking night city tour to a quick private transfer, these options cater to different interests and schedules—making helicopter travel more accessible than ever. Plus, you’ll avoid the traffic and crowded subways that can turn your journey into a hassle, especially after a long flight.

1. New York City Helicopter Tour at Night

At number 1 on our list, the New York City Helicopter Tour at Night is the best-selling helicopter experience departing from the convenient Essex County Airport in New Jersey. Priced at $229 per person and lasting roughly 20 to 25 minutes, this tour offers some of the most stunning views of the city’s illuminated skyline. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a memorable evening experience, whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to see the city in a different light.

This tour covers a lot of ground, flying past landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, One World Trade Center, and the Chrysler Building. You’ll also see Times Square, the Empire State Building, the Intrepid Museum, and even the American Dream Mall. It’s a highlight reel of New York City’s most iconic sights seen from a perspective that’s hard to beat. The pilot is praised for thorough commentary, making the experience both exciting and informative. Several reviews mention how the nighttime views are spectacular—”the view of New York at night is just magnificent,” one reviewer noted.

This tour is best suited for those wanting a condensed, high-impact experience. While it’s priced higher than a typical sightseeing cruise, the aerial perspective makes it worth every penny for many. The limited duration means you’ll get a quick but intense taste of NYC’s skyline, perfect for travelers short on time but eager for a big impression.

Bottom Line: If you want a vivid, memorable view of New York City after dark, this helicopter tour offers a perfect blend of spectacle and convenience, especially departing from Essex County Airport.

2. Private Helicopter Transfer from New York Airports to Lower Manhattan

For those looking for a luxurious, time-efficient transfer from Newark, LaGuardia, or JFK airports to Lower Manhattan, this private helicopter service is an excellent choice. Priced at $2,323.34 per group (up to 6 people), the flight lasts approximately 10 minutes, making it ideal for business travelers or anyone on a tight schedule. It’s not a sightseeing tour in the traditional sense but offers a way to arrive in style and skip the traffic that can make ground transportation stressful and unpredictable.

You’ll be whisked directly from the airport to Pier 6 in Manhattan, with incredible aerial views of the city’s skyline, bridges, and waterfront. This private transfer ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing you to bypass busy traffic and crowded subways while arriving relaxed and ready for your day. Reviews are currently unavailable, but the value is clear for those who prioritize comfort and efficiency over sightseeing. It’s also a way to make your first impression of New York City truly unforgettable, especially if arriving for a business meeting or special event.

Since it’s a private service, you can customize your experience slightly—perhaps requesting specific views or departure times. The quick transfer time makes it especially appealing for travelers who need to maximize their time in the city without sacrificing style.

Bottom Line: This helicopter transfer offers a luxurious, efficient way to enter Manhattan directly from Newark or other airports, making it perfect for busy travelers who want to travel in comfort and arrive in style.

How to Choose

When deciding between these helicopter options, consider your priorities: Are you after a memorable sightseeing experience, or is your goal to streamline your travel? The Night City Tour provides iconic views and a chance to see New York at its most dazzling, making it ideal for sightseeing or special occasions. Meanwhile, the private transfer suits travelers focused on convenience and luxury, especially if you’re arriving late or have tight schedules.

Think about your budget as well. For around $229, the night tour offers a lot of bang for the buck if you’re seeking a memorable adventure. For a more exclusive, private experience that emphasizes comfort and efficiency, splurging on the $2,323 group transfer can make a big difference, especially for larger groups or business travelers.

If you’re interested in combining a quick helicopter ride with other sightseeing or dinner plans, check out the Night City Tour for its broad coverage of landmarks. Conversely, if your goal is to arrive at your hotel or meeting point in style, the private transfer will serve you best.

Final Thoughts

Newark offers two standout helicopter experiences that cater to different needs. The night city tour is a fantastic way to see New York’s skyline lit up from above, perfect for adding a special touch to your trip or celebrating a special occasion. Meanwhile, the private transfer combines luxury with efficiency, ideal for making your connection to Manhattan smooth and stylish.

For travelers seeking a breathtaking aerial view of the city’s most famous landmarks, the night tour remains a top choice. If arriving in ultimate comfort and speed is your priority, the private helicopter transfer from Newark to Lower Manhattan is hard to beat. No matter which you choose, booking early and planning ahead ensures you’ll make the most of these sky-high experiences during your visit.