New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour
Traveler rating
4.4/5
Based on 817 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour worth booking?
New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour is a 0.3-hour experience in New York, United States, from $319 per person. It scores 60 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.4/5 rating across 817 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 60 / 100
- Rating
- 4.4/5 (817)
- Duration
- 0.3 hours
- From
- $319 per person
Take to the skies on a helicopter tour to see New York's amazing skyline! On this scenic 18-20-minute helicopter flight you'll soar through the sky and experience a bird's eye view of Manhattan's world famous landmarks. This is the best view you can get of New York City!
What you get
About this experience
Take to the skies on a helicopter tour to see New York's amazing skyline! On this scenic 18-20-minute helicopter flight you'll soar through the sky and experience a bird's eye view of Manhattan's world famous landmarks. This is the best view you can get of New York City!
What's included
Included
- 18-20 Minute Helicopter Tour in New York City
- All Taxes and Fees included
- Heliport Fee ($40 per person included)
Not included
- Gratuities
- Transportation to/from the heliport
What you'll see and do
Statue of Liberty
After taking off from Downtown Manhattan Heliport, you will fly over Governor's Island, a former Revolutionary US Army post, and the birthplace of New York. Next you will come face-to-face with the Statue of Liberty, which has become synonymous with America's most fundamental value, freedom.
Pass by without stopping
Ellis Island
Fly over Ellis Island.
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Central Park
This is the perfect vantage point to take in New York's skyline. Don't miss out on this incredible scenic helicopter flight!
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Times Square
This is the perfect vantage point to take in New York's skyline. Don't miss out on this incredible scenic helicopter flight!
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George Washington Bridge
This is the perfect vantage point to take in New York's skyline. Don't miss out on this incredible scenic helicopter flight!
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Governors Island National Monument
This is the perfect vantage point to take in New York's skyline. Don't miss out on this incredible scenic helicopter flight!
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Manhattan Skyline
This is the perfect vantage point to take in New York's skyline. Don't miss out on this incredible scenic helicopter flight!
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Madison Square Garden
This is the perfect vantage point to take in New York's skyline. Don't miss out on this incredible scenic helicopter flight!
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Zip Aviation Helicopter Tours
This is the perfect vantage point to take in New York's skyline. Don't miss out on this incredible scenic helicopter flight!
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
New York
Google Maps provides the correct navigation route, all other navigation options will take you to Chelsea Piers. Please ensure the end of route address matches the address above. Located on Pier 6 (2 Building North of Staten Island ferry and the East River). Look for Zip Aviation.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Google Maps provides the correct navigation route, all other navigation options will take you to Chelsea Piers. Please ensure the end of route address matches the address above. Located on Pier 6 (2 Building North of Staten Island ferry and the East River). Look for Zip Aviation.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- de, ru, pt, cmn, ja, en, it, fr, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Group size
- Up to 6 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Zip Aviation
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Check-in is 45 minutes prior to the scheduled flight time. Failure to do so may result in extended wait times or forfeiture of flight.
- Due to comfort and weight / balance of the aircraft, passengers weighing over 250lbs (113kgs) will be required to purchase an additional seat. This is payable directly to the tour operator on the day of the tour. 300-lb (136kg) maximum weight per passenger.
- All passengers including children must have a government-issued ID/Passport or you may be denied your flight.
- Please note, that audio language selection is not guaranteed and is based on availability. Should more than 2 languages be requested on the same flight, the audio commentary may default to English. Due to the unpredictable nature of technical difficulties, we cannot provide assurance for the audio functionality of the headsets.
- All flight times are approximate and subject to change due to weather conditions and weight restrictions.
- Infants 24 months and younger must sit on an adult's lap
- Passengers may be scheduled to fly at any time between their assigned check-in time and their booked tour time. Actual flight times may vary based on operational needs, weather conditions, and passenger flow.
- Flights purchased prior to March 2, 2026, the $40 per person heliport fee was not included in the original booking price. This fee will be payable at the time of check-in.
- For passengers with mobility issues, you will need to transfer from your wheelchair to the helicopter seat and be able to sit with your legs bent. For passengers weighing under 150 lbs, our staff can assist you into the helicopter and will ensure your wheelchair is brought to and from the heliport during your flight. For passengers over 150 lbs, you must either be able to transfer on your own or have someone with you who can assist in getting you into the helicopter. Please let us know about any mobility issues in advance.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 817 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Photo opportunities
5 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
817 verified traveler reviews for New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Excellent first time experience!
On the fence about booking with Viator? Don’t hesitate, book now, you won’t be disappointed! My first time in a helicopter and it won’t be my last.
Response from the operator: Hello Debbra, Thank you so much for the great review! We’re happy to hear that your first helicopter experience was such a memorable one. We love hearing that it won’t be your last flight! We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back the next time you are in the City! Cheers!
via Viator
Once again please
Booking and rescheduling worked perfectly. Great online and offline service. Flight itself was unbelievable.
Response from the operator: Hello Lukas, Thank you for your review! We’re so glad to hear that the booking and rescheduling process went smoothly and worked perfectly for you. Most importantly, we’re thrilled that the flight itself was an unbelievable experience! Cheers!
via Viator
Disappointed but easy for company to fix !
Disappointing ride , firstly our headsets didn't work so we couldn't talk to each other tols the pilot didn't do anything . Thought the guide would point out Land marks or chat to us on the ride , nothing just want your money
Response from the operator: Hello! Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We’re sorry to hear that your experience was disappointing, particularly with the headsets not working and the lack of communication during the flight. We understand how important it is to be able to hear and communicate clearly during a helicopter tour, and we regret that this was not addressed appropriately during your ride. Your feedback will be shared with our team as we continue working to improve the guest experience. Thank you.
via Tripadvisor
Fun Helicopter Tour of New York City
Really enjoyed the tour. We saw a lot of the really outstanding iconic sights of New York. Very fun tour to see it all from a helicopter. The business is very safety conscious and al directions were clear and the staff took us to and from the helicopter, made all safety instructions very clear and the boarding process was very easy. We had a great time and got a thumbs up drive with all the pictures of us the staff had taken for $35. I definitely recommend this as a fun and unique way to see NYC.
Response from the operator: Hello! Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience! We’re thrilled to hear that you enjoyed seeing New York City’s iconic sights from the helicopter and that our team made you feel safe, comfortable, and well taken care of throughout the experience. We’re also glad you enjoyed the photos—it’s always great to have special memories to take home with you! And thank you for your recommendation! Cheers!
via Tripadvisor
Very good flight, but hidden t&c's
The helicopter ride was fantastic, views were superb and the whole experience was simply brilliant with one caviat. During booking Viator do ask for you weight, what they don't mention at the time or anywhere in the t&c's until after you have paid it that their is a 113kg weight limit, above this then the provider may force you to purchase an extra seat depending on demand on the day. Thankfully we went on a quiet day but had it been busy then we could have had problems and could well have been forced to pay for an extra seat. It's dissapointing that at no point before payment is made that this is mentioned, not when you input your weight when asked, not in the terms and conditions and not until the tickets are issues a few days before the flight and again in small, easily unnoticeable text buried away that you miss until it's too late. That was dissapointing but thankfully wasn't an issue in the day, but onku because it was quiet and the flight wasnt full
Response from the operator: Hello Phillip, Thank you for your review. Copied and Pasted from the Viator Booking page - not sure how you missed it. Nothing is hidden about weight and over the weight limit issue - Due to comfort and weight / balance of the aircraft, passengers weighing over 250lbs (113kgs) will be required to purchase an additional seat. This is payable directly to the tour operator on the day of the tour. 300-lb (136kg) maximum weight per passenger. Read more about - Manhattan Sky Tour: New York Helicopter Flight - https://www.viator.com/tours/New-York-City/Manhattan-Sky-Tour-New-York-Helicopter-Flight/d687-5024MANSKY?mcid=56757 You can check it out by clicking on the link. Again, full disclosure about over the weight limit and the need to purchase an extra seat. Thank you.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 0.3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 286
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Zip Aviation, who run 5 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 51.9.
See everything Zip Aviation runsWhy this scores 60
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for New York.
How much does New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour cost?
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Prices start at $319 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in New York usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour take?
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Plan for about 0.3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in New York is not rushed.
Is New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 60 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.4/5 across 817 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in New York, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 0.3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour?
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Around 286 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in New York can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in New York and add a light layer if any part of the 0.3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central New York within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in New York?
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New York has more bookable experiences than any other city on Outty, and the quality spread is brutal. Observation decks are commoditised, so we score them on timed-entry reliability and sunset slots. Food tours and borough walks are where the ranking really separates operators, and the top scores in the city all come from small-group guides. On Outty we rank every New York experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include NYC Bus Tour of Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens: Art, Food & Sports, Half-Day Bus Tour of NYC Top Highlights, SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown Walking Tour in New York. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit New York?
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September to early November, and late April through June. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in New York?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour?
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Included: 18-20 Minute Helicopter Tour in New York City; All Taxes and Fees included; and Heliport Fee ($40 per person included). Not included: Gratuities; and Transportation to/from the heliport. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour?
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Google Maps provides the correct navigation route, all other navigation options will take you to Chelsea Piers. Please ensure the end of route address matches the address above. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour offered in?
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It is offered in German, Russian, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, English, Italian, French and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour?
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Across 817 reviews averaging 4.4 out of 5, recurring themes include photo opportunities. The views and photo stops come up again and again.
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