A helicopter tour over Manhattan takes 12 to 15 minutes, covers 20+ landmarks from the air, and departs from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport, a short walk from the South Ferry subway station. No trip to New York is complete without seeing the skyline from above.
Here’s what you need to know to book.
Ticket Prices (2026)
A shared helicopter flight is the most affordable way to fly over Manhattan. You share the helicopter with up to 5 other passengers, but every seat has floor-to-ceiling windows and the same views.
Manhattan Highlights Tour (shared flight):
- 12–15 minute flight
- From $234 per person on Viator (heliport fees included — no surprise charges at check-in)
- Live pilot commentary through noise-cancelling headsets
- Flies past the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, Central Park, One World Trade Center, Hudson Yards, and Times Square
This is the most popular option for first-time visitors. It covers the full Manhattan skyline loop at the best price point.
👉 Book your NYC helicopter tour tickets
Good to know: some operators advertise lower prices but add a $40–$45 heliport facility fee at checkout. The tour linked above includes all fees in the ticket price — what you see is what you pay.
What’s Included
Your ticket covers everything you need for the flight: the shared helicopter seat, live commentary, noise-cancelling headset, heliport landing and facility fees, and fuel surcharge. There are no hidden costs.
Not included: hotel pickup (you make your own way to the heliport), souvenir photos (available for purchase after the flight), and tips for your pilot (customary but optional, 15–20% is standard).
How to Get There
The Downtown Manhattan Heliport is at 6 East River Piers, New York, NY 10004. It’s a large gray building with a clock on the front — you can’t miss it.
By subway: take the 1 train to South Ferry station. The heliport is a 5-minute walk. By taxi/rideshare: tell your driver “Downtown Manhattan Heliport” – it shows up on all map apps. By car: no parking at the heliport. Use the garage at South Street & Whitehall Street or the South Street Seaport (Pier 17).
Check in 30 minutes before your flight. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID. Complimentary lockers are available for your belongings during the flight.
See Also: Best Things to do in New York
Before You Book: Quick Tips
- Weight limit: 275 lbs (124 kg) per passenger. Passengers over this limit may not be able to fly. If you need a seat belt extender, contact the operator before booking.
- Best time to fly: clear mornings offer the sharpest skyline views. Sunset slots are popular but book out faster.
- Weather cancellations: flights may be rescheduled due to weather. The operator will contact you, and you can reschedule at no charge.
- Kids: children under 2 fly free on an adult’s lap. All other passengers need a ticket.
- Cancellation policy: free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book Your Tickets
The Manhattan Highlights tour is the best entry point: full skyline loop, all fees included, departing from Downtown Manhattan (not New Jersey), with 4.8 stars from 1,280+ verified reviews.
👉 Check availability and book your helicopter tour
Prices are based on 2026 published rates and may vary by date. Always confirm the final price at checkout.
