The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City

Imagine soaring high above one of the world’s most bustling cities, taking in sights that are impossible to appreciate fully from the ground. That’s exactly what the Big Apple Helicopter Tour promises. It’s a popular choice for visitors eager to see Manhattan’s skyline and surrounding boroughs from a fresh, panoramic angle. Since this tour generally gets booked about 27 days in advance, it’s clear that many travelers see it as a highlight of their trip.

We’re drawn to this experience for two reasons: first, the opportunity to get an expansive view of NYC’s most famous landmarks, and second, its relatively affordable price considering the exclusive perspective it offers. That said, it’s not perfect for everyone; the 17-20 minute flight can feel brief, and additional costs like the $40 heliport fee add to the expense. Still, if you’re craving a memorable, high-flying snapshot of Manhattan and beyond, this tour is worth considering, especially for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a quick, scenic overview.

Key Points

• The tour lasts approximately 17 to 20 minutes, offering a quick but comprehensive aerial view of NYC.
• You’ll see landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and Yankee Stadium.
• The experience is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of six, ensuring a more intimate atmosphere.
• The price includes on-board live commentary and climate-controlled comfort, enhancing the overall experience.
• Additional costs include a $40 heliport fee, payable during check-in.
• The tour is booked on average 27 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

An Overview of the Experience

The Big Apple Helicopter Tour is designed to give you a taste of New York from above. It begins at the 6 East River Piers, a location that’s accessible for most visitors near public transportation, making your journey to the heliport straightforward. To enjoy the flight without stress, arrive at least 30 minutes early—45 minutes if you’re traveling during peak hours or after 4 PM, when traffic can get heavy.

Once at the heliport, you’ll check in, pay the $40 per person heliport fee, and prepare for takeoff. You’ll be seated in a small helicopter, with window seats assigned based on weight balance—so don’t count on sitting right next to the pilot or by the window unless luck is on your side. The interior has climate control and commentary, making your flight comfortable and informative.

What the Flight Actually Looks Like

The flight itself is relatively short—about 17 to 20 minutes—so it’s a quick snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration. During this time, you’ll fly over some of the most photographed spots in the city, with stunning views that are difficult to replicate on foot. Expect to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, with their iconic silhouettes clearly visible from above, giving you a new appreciation for their scale and design.

Flying over the Hudson River offers a spectacular perspective of Manhattan’s west side, with the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building looming tall on the skyline. You’ll pass over Central Park, seeing its green patches from the air, and glide past Yankee Stadium, a treat for sports fans. The Brooklyn Bridge and the skyline of Brooklyn are also part of the route, providing a panoramic view of the city’s diverse boroughs.

The Detailed Itinerary and Landmarks

While the tour is mainly a flyover, the route is thoughtfully designed to maximize your sightseeing experience. It starts with a view of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, establishing a dramatic start with these symbolic icons. From there, the helicopter moves northward along the west side of Manhattan, giving you a close-up look at the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building—two Art Deco marvels that define the city’s skyline.

The route then sweeps over Central Park, offering a contrasting green space amid concrete, and continues towards Yankee Stadium. The flight also passes along the Brooklyn Bridge, with aerial views of Brooklyn, showcasing the city’s vibrant neighborhoods from above. Along this route, the pilot provides commentary, pointing out landmarks and sharing interesting tidbits.

Insights from Travelers

Many reviews praise the stunning views and the value for the money this tour provides. One enthusiastic traveler summarized it as, “It was an outstanding experience, highly recommend, amazing view of New York and all its wonders! A MUST!” Others appreciated how quick yet comprehensive the flight was, making it a perfect addition to a busy NYC itinerary.

However, not all feedback is glowing. Some travelers note feeling rushed, especially if they are last to board or if they’re caught in rush hour traffic en route to the heliport. One review mentioned feeling hurried onto the helicopter, with an experience described as “very rushed,” and some found the staff to be “rude” during check-in. These are worth considering if you value a relaxed experience.

The Practical Side: Costs, Group Size, and Accessibility

At $279 per person, the tour is priced to reflect its exclusivity and the breathtaking views you’ll get. When you add the $40 heliport fee, the total cost climbs a bit, but many feel the experience is worth it—especially given the compact duration and the unforgettable perspectives.

The group size is capped at six travelers, which creates a more intimate environment and allows for better viewing and commentary. The tour is suitable for most travelers; most can participate, and service animals are permitted. Passengers exceeding 275 lbs/124 kg will need to purchase an additional seat, which might be an important consideration for some.

What to Expect and What to Bring

Since the helicopter has limited capacity and window seats aren’t guaranteed, it’s best to be flexible about your seating. You might want to arrive early to secure the best spot and enjoy the brief pre-flight safety briefing.

Photography is an option, but photos are only available for purchase after the flight. Remember, all bags are subject to inspection, and lockers are provided. If you’re planning to capture the moment, prepare your camera or phone in advance, and keep valuables minimal.

Weather, Cancellations, and Planning Tips

This tour is weather-dependent; if the weather turns poor, the flight may be canceled, with a full refund or rescheduling offered. The best advice is to book your flight well in advance, keeping an eye on the weather forecast.

To avoid missing your scheduled departure, arrive early—at least 30 minutes beforehand—and allow extra time during busy hours. If you’re late, you might be turned away or have to reschedule, which can be frustrating given the pre-booking demand.

This helicopter tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a quick, rundown of NYC’s most famous sights. It’s also a fantastic choice for travelers celebrating a special occasion or looking for an unforgettable experience that offers a different perspective on the city.

If you’re on a tight budget or prefer longer, more relaxed sightseeing, this might not be the best fit. The flight is brief, and the additional fees can add up, but the scenery and thrill are well worth it for many.

The Big Apple Helicopter Tour delivers a memorable, visually stunning experience that highlights the most iconic New York City landmarks from a perspective few get to enjoy. It’s a relatively affordable way to see the city’s skyline in a way that’s both exciting and efficient. The limited flight time is a trade-off for the chance to see so much in such a short span — perfect for those who want a snapshot of the Big Apple’s grandeur.

While it’s not without its minor downsides—like the potential for feeling rushed or the extra fee at check-in—the overall value is undeniable for many travelers. This tour suits those who crave a unique viewpoint of NYC and are comfortable with a brief, high-impact flight.

If you’re looking to add a memorable, photo-worthy adventure to your NYC trip, and don’t mind the extra cost, this helicopter tour will give you a fresh appreciation of the city’s famous skyline and vibrant boroughs.

What’s the duration of the helicopter tour?
The flight lasts approximately 17 to 20 minutes, making it a quick but impactful sightseeing experience.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from 6 East River Piers, a location that’s accessible via public transportation, simplifying your logistics.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the maximum group size is six travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, a $40 heliport fee per person is payable at check-in. Photos are available for purchase post-flight.

What should I bring?
A valid photo ID, and be prepared for security checks including walking through a metal detector. Bring minimal belongings, as bags are inspected.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Seeing New York from above on this helicopter tour offers a distinct and exhilarating perspective. It’s a quick, memorable way to witness the city’s famed skyline and landmarks—perfect for travelers wanting a snapshot of NYC’s grandeur without taking too much time or budget. For those seeking a fun, photo-worthy adventure, this experience is a standout choice.