The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City

Helicopter tours have gained immense popularity among locals and tourists alike, providing an unparalleled way to witness the city’s grandeur.

Among the most popular helicopter rides over New York is the Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City, offering an unparalleled adventure that allows you to see the city in a way few lucky ones have experienced.

Also known as Complete New York Helicopter Tour, this tour allows you to behold the world’s most influential city in all its glory from thousands of feet in the air.

This article will tell you everything you need to know before booking the Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City.

The Big Apple Helicopter Tour

Big Apple tour
Image: Viator.com

Treat yourself to the magical sight of the sun casting its golden glow over a panorama of towering skyscrapers, including the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and One World Trade Center. 

These architectural marvels create an awe-inspiring scene that showcase NYC’s economic and cultural significance. With the buildings, the view becomes even more magical.

Witness the city’s natural beauty and tranquility in the vastness of Central Park, with its lush greenery and winding paths, like an oasis in the midst of the urban jungle. 

Soar above the iconic Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and hope, standing tall on Liberty Island.

Glide over Ellis Island to reflect on the millions of immigrants who entered the United States through its gates and fly past the majestic Brooklyn Bridge.

Get a bird’s-eye view of Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx during your flight.

Marvel at the aerial views of the Big Apple and its boroughs, the Hudson River, One World Trade Center, the Woolworth Building, and much more.

Get expert onboard live commentary about the city’s rich history and heritage and a cabin with climate control.

Hop on to this adventure ride to experience the breathtaking sight of the Manhattan skyline.

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Cost of the heli tour

The NYC Big Apple Helicopter Tour tickets cost US$269 per person for people above 2 years of age.

The ticket gives access to approximately 17 to 20 minutes in the air and onboard narration.

Departure point

The aircraft for this tour takes off from Downtown Manhattan Heliport.

Address: Charm Aviation NYC- Downtown Manhattan Heliport

6 E River Piers, New York, NY 10004, USA. Get Directions.

The heliport is near public transportation.

There are multiple take-offs daily, so book early to get your preferred time slot.

The tour ends back at the meeting point.

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Timings of the tour

The twenty-minute Big Apple Helicopter ride’s first batch takes off at 9 am on all days of the week except Sunday.

There is a tour every 30 minutes till 5:30 pm when the last batch of tourists takes off for their aerial view of New York City.

Most tour operators prefer their participants reach the meeting point 45 minutes before the aircraft’s departure.

Restrictions strictly followed

Weight limits apply for a safe and comfortable Big Apple Heli tour.

No passenger must weigh over 275 lbs./124 kg.

Passengers exceeding 275 lbs./124 kg. will be required to purchase an additional seat at full cost. 

A minimum of two and a maximum of six passengers are required on this tour, failing which, it will be canceled.

Infants and children are allowed onboard, but infants must sit on the caregiver’s lap throughout the flight.

All passengers and bags must go through an inspection, and lockers are available at o extra cost to hold belongings while flying.

A valid photo ID is required.

No pets are allowed onboard except service animals.

Flight times are approximate based on winds, weights, and conditions.

Seating arrangements may often be in the hands of the tour organizers for a safe and stable flight.

Exclusions of the air tour

A heliport fee of $40 is not included in your ticket. However, you are expected to pay it before taking off.

Your ticket price also excludes photos for souvenirs.

Additionally, the Complete New York Helicopter Tour tickets is not inclusive of hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Reviews of the Big Apple Helicopter Tour

NYC Big Apple Heli tour is a popular choice for business purposes and among couples, families, friends, solo travelers, and adventure-seekers.

Here’s what they have to say about the tour:

Great experience

The flight was amazing, considering it was the first time in a helicopter for me and my wife. Very satisfied with the company providing the tour. The weather wasn’t very friendly, and we had to reschedule our flight 3 times. But Charm Aviation always offered another date and time and did the best they could to give us the best tour. Totally recommended!

Radim98, Trip Advisor

Dream come true

I had always dreamed of visiting New York and taking a heli tour. I could not have chosen a better operator than “Charm Aviation”! From the welcome, professionalism, and kindness of the ground staff to the pilot, everything exceeded my expectations! As for the flight, it was an awesome, unforgettable experience that left me speechless! I’ll choose “Charm Aviation” again. They are 5-star and the best.

Renan G., Trip Advisor

Amazing flight

It was a very good experience. I would have loved it to last longer or even go more over the city. Our pilot was lovely and made us feel at ease. You’re not guaranteed a window seat, but you don’t even need it as you can still see everything. We all loved it and felt very comfortable.

Aoife W., Trip Advisor

Accessibility to the tour

This tour is completely accessible to guests with disabilities.

The aircraft, transportation, and surfaces are completely wheelchair accessible, preventing any inconvenience for the guests.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your tour date. 

If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, a 100% percent cancellation fee is applicable.

No changes are allowed within 24 hours of the experience’s start time.

Helicopter tours require good weather. 

If the tour is canceled due to poor weather or non-fulfillment of the minimum number of passengers, you may be offered a different date or a full refund.

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Researched & Written by
For Vanshita, traveling is not just a hobby but the truest form of self-expression. She has a penchant for road trips, spontaneous detours, captivating landscapes, and cultural encounters. She loves collecting souvenirs from the places she visits and taking snapshots with a story to tell. Her favorite cities are Boston, Budapest, and Nikko.

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