Grand Helicopter Tour

The Grand Helicopter Tour offers an exhilarating aerial adventure over the iconic skyline of New York City. From the breathtaking vantage point of a state-of-the-art helicopter, guests can witness the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, and Central Park. With a maximum of six travelers per flight, the tour provides an intimate setting for a truly remarkable experience. Safety and accessibility are paramount, ensuring a memorable journey for all. But what makes this tour truly special is the chance to see the Big Apple from a perspective few have the privilege to enjoy.

Key Points

• The Grand Helicopter Tour offers panoramic views of New York City landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, and Central Park.
• The tour is up to 25 minutes long and accommodates a maximum of 6 travelers, with a private tour option available.
• Passengers must arrive 45 minutes prior to the scheduled flight time to avoid late fees ranging from $50 to $100.
• Safety measures include a 250 lb weight limit, wheelchair accessibility, and accommodations for infants and service animals.
• Cancellation and rescheduling policies provide flexibility, with alternative dates offered for weather-related cancellations.

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Grand Helicopter Tour offers visitors a chance to take in the sights of New York City from the air.

This tour has a maximum of 6 travelers per flight, with the option to book a private tour. The total cost includes a $50.00 heliport/fuel fee per person, payable on-site, and a $50.00 fee for children under 2.

Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the experience.

With an overall rating of 3.0 from 5 reviews, the tour provides panoramic views of major landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, and Central Park, though some passengers have complained about dirty windows and inaudible pilot navigation.

Meeting and Arrival Information

Conveniently, the meeting point for the Grand Helicopter Tour is at 6 East River Piers, New York, NY 10004, USA (Pier 6 Downtown Manhattan Heliport).

Passengers must arrive 45 minutes prior to their scheduled flight time, bringing proper identification to avoid late fees. A $50.00 late fee applies for arriving within 45 minutes, and a $100.00 late fee for arriving 30 minutes or less before the scheduled time.

Ensuring timely arrival is crucial, as the tour can’t wait for late passengers. With these arrival guidelines, travelers can expect a seamless start to their Grand Helicopter Tour experience.

Safety and Accessibility

Safety and accessibility are paramount for the Grand Helicopter Tour. Passengers mustn’t exceed a total weight limit of 250 lbs, and will be weighed at the facility. Those exceeding the limit must purchase an additional seat or forfeit the flight.

The helicopter is wheelchair accessible, and service animals are allowed. Strollers can also be accommodated, and the surfaces are wheelchair-friendly. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

These measures ensure a comfortable and safe experience for all passengers, regardless of their physical abilities. The tour operator prioritizes the well-being and accessibility of its guests.

Cancellation and Rescheduling Policies

In accordance with the tour’s policies, New York Helicopter reserves the right to cancel, change, or delay flights due to weather conditions, FAA restrictions, or insufficient passenger numbers.

If a tour is canceled due to poor weather, alternative dates will be offered to customers. This flexibility allows the company to prioritize passenger safety while still providing an enjoyable experience.

Rescheduling options help ensure customers can reschedule their tour for a more favorable time, reducing disappointment or frustration.

Customer Feedback and Concerns

Mixed reviews of the Grand Helicopter Tour highlight both customer satisfaction and areas for improvement.

Positive feedback praises the breathtaking views of major landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, and Central Park.

However, some customers complain about dirty windows, inaudible pilot navigation, and tour cancellations due to weather.

The host responds by emphasizing safety and communication regarding tour conditions.

While the tour offers a unique aerial perspective of New York City, inconsistent service and weather-related disruptions have left some patrons dissatisfied.

Addressing these concerns could help enhance the overall customer experience.

Sights and Landmarks

Soaring above the iconic skyline, the Grand Helicopter Tour offers passengers a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of New York City’s most renowned landmarks. Gliding over the urban landscape, travelers marvel at the towering presence of One World Trade Center, the verdant expanse of Central Park, and the iconic Statue of Liberty standing guard in the harbor. The tour provides unparalleled perspectives of these iconic sights, allowing passengers to appreciate the scale and grandeur of the city from a unique vantage point.

Landmark	Description
One World Trade Center	The tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, standing as a symbol of resilience and progress.
Central Park	A sprawling urban oasis, offering a lush respite from the bustling streets below.
Statue of Liberty	An enduring symbol of freedom and opportunity, welcoming visitors to the shores of New York.

Duration and Schedule

The Grand Helicopter Tour is a captivating experience that spans a duration of approximately 15 to 25 minutes, depending on weather conditions and air traffic.

Passengers must arrive 45 minutes prior to their scheduled flight time to avoid late fees, which can range from $50 for arriving within 45 minutes to $100 for arriving 30 minutes or less before the scheduled time.

New York Helicopter reserves the right to cancel, change, or delay flights due to weather, FAA restrictions, or insufficient passengers.

In the event of a cancellation due to poor weather, alternative dates are offered to accommodate your’ schedules.

Booking and Reservations

To book the Grand Helicopter Tour, customers can visit the company’s website or call their reservation line.

On the website, they’ll find an easy-to-use booking system that allows them to select their desired tour date and time. Customers can also speak to a friendly reservation agent over the phone, who can assist them with the booking process.

Payment is due in full at the time of booking, and customers must provide their contact information, weights, and any special requests. A confirmation email will be sent, outlining all the important details.

Customers should arrive at the designated meeting point 45 minutes prior to their scheduled flight time to avoid late fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Based on the information provided, passengers cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour overview does not mention any allowance for outside food or beverages. Passengers must follow the tour provider’s policies.

Is There a Height/Age Requirement for the Helicopter?

There aren’t any specific height or age requirements for the helicopter tour. However, infants must sit on a lap during the flight. Passengers exceeding the 250 lb weight limit may need to purchase an additional seat.

How Many Passengers Can Fit in the Helicopter?

The helicopter can accommodate a maximum of 6 passengers per tour, unless all seats are purchased for a private tour. The tours are shared unless travelers purchase all seats for a private flight.

Is There a Limit on the Number of Bags/Luggage Allowed?

The tour has no explicit limit on the number of bags or luggage allowed. However, passengers are responsible for ensuring their belongings don’t exceed the helicopter’s weight capacity or impede their own boarding and seating.

Can I Take Photographs or Video During the Flight?

Passengers are allowed to take photographs and videos during the helicopter flight. However, they should avoid obstructing the pilot’s view or interfering with the aircraft’s operation. Flash photography is generally discouraged to maintain the safety and comfort of all onboard.

Recap

The Grand Helicopter Tour offers an unforgettable aerial experience above New York City’s iconic landmarks. With a maximum of six travelers, guests can enjoy a more intimate setting while taking in the stunning skyline. The tour prioritizes safety and accessibility, ensuring a memorable adventure for all attendees. Whether it’s a 15-minute or 25-minute flight, the Grand Helicopter Tour provides a unique and exhilarating way to see the city from a bird’s-eye view.