The Empire Helicopter Tour of New York

Exploring New York City from a bird’s-eye view is an exhilarating experience made possible by the Empire Helicopter Tour. This 30-minute aerial adventure showcases the city’s most iconic landmarks, from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building, offering passengers a rare perspective typically reserved for the feathered inhabitants of the urban skyline. With an on-board guide providing live commentary and a climate-controlled cabin perfect for capturing stunning aerial photographs, the Empire Helicopter Tour presents a unique opportunity to see the Big Apple like never before. But the true allure of this tour lies in its ability to transport visitors beyond the hustle and bustle of the streets below, revealing a side of New York that few ever have the chance to witness.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Helicopter Flights And Tours In New York City.

Key Points

• The Empire Helicopter Tour offers a 30-minute aerial excursion showcasing iconic New York City landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and One World Trade Center.
• With a small group size capped at 6 passengers, the tour provides a shared, intimate experience with live commentary from an on-board guide.
• The tour departs from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport, providing a convenient starting point to explore the city from an aerial perspective.
• Passengers can capture high-quality photographs of the NYC skyline through the climate-controlled cabin and large windows during the tour.
• The tour’s educational and immersive approach, with anecdotes and historical details from the guide, enhances the overall experience for visitors.

Overview of the Helicopter Tour

The Empire Helicopter Tour of New York offers visitors a unique opportunity to admire the iconic sights of the city from an aerial perspective, showcasing top attractions like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and One World Trade Center.

This small-group tour, capped at 6 travelers, provides a shared experience that lets you take in the city’s breathtaking skyline.

During the 30-minute flight, you’ll enjoy live commentary and a climate-controlled cabin, with photos available for purchase.

The tour departs from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport, conveniently located at 6 East River Piers.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for a new perspective, the Empire Helicopter Tour promises an unforgettable aerial adventure.

Top Sights Showcased

During the 30-minute Empire Helicopter Tour of New York, passengers can admire some of the city’s most iconic sights, including the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and One World Trade Center.

The Statue of Liberty stands proudly on Liberty Island, offering a unique aerial perspective of this legendary symbol of freedom.

The iconic Empire State Building, with its distinctive art deco design, dominates the skyline.

The graceful span of the Brooklyn Bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn.

One World Trade Center, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, serves as a poignant reminder of the city’s resilience.

This small-group tour provides an exceptional opportunity to take in these renowned landmarks from an unparalleled vantage point.

Shared Group Experience

A shared group experience aboard the Empire Helicopter Tour invites passengers to marvel at New York City’s iconic landmarks alongside a small group of fellow travelers, capped at a maximum of 6 individuals.

This intimate setting allows for camaraderie and conversation as you soar above the city, your on-board guide providing live commentary to enhance your understanding and appreciation of the sights below.

While you won’t be guaranteed a window seat, the climate-controlled cabin ensures your comfort throughout the 30-minute flight.

Although hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, the convenient downtown Manhattan Heliport location makes it easy to access.

This shared group experience offers an unparalleled aerial perspective of New York City’s most famous attractions.

On-Board Live Commentary

On-board live commentary from the experienced pilot and guide enhances passengers’ understanding and appreciation of New York City’s iconic landmarks as they soar above the metropolis. The knowledgeable commentary provides valuable insights into the history, architecture, and significance of destinations like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and One World Trade Center.

Passengers can engage with the guide, ask questions, and gain a deeper connection to the sights they’re witnessing. The live commentary elevates the experience, transforming it from a mere sightseeing tour into an educational and immersive exploration of the city from a unique aerial perspective.

Key features of the on-board commentary include:

• Detailed explanations of landmark features and histories
• Anecdotes and little-known facts about New York City
• Engaging interaction with the guide
• Personalized attention to enhance the tour experience

Photo Opportunities

Passengers can capture stunning aerial photographs of New York City’s iconic landmarks during the helicopter tour, with ample opportunities to immortalize their bird’s-eye views of the metropolis.

The on-board climate-controlled cabin and large windows provide the perfect conditions for taking high-quality photos.

From the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building to the Brooklyn Bridge and the One World Trade Center, every major attraction is visible from the air, allowing passengers to frame their shots with precision.

While window seats aren’t guaranteed, the small group size ensures that everyone gets a chance to snap their dream shots of the city skyline.

Photos taken during the tour are available for purchase as souvenirs.

Meeting Point and Directions

The Empire Helicopter Tour’s meeting point is located at the 6 East River Piers in downtown New York City, with the tour departing from the Charm Aviation NYC – Downtown Manhattan Heliport.

Passengers will need to arrive at the meeting point, which is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, including:

• Walking, as it’s located in a prime downtown area
• Public transportation, such as the subway or bus
• Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft
• Parking at nearby garages, though on-site parking isn’t available

With a clear meeting point and convenient access, the Empire Helicopter Tour ensures a smooth start to your aerial adventure over the iconic sights of New York City.

Weight and Identification Requirements

Along With the convenient meeting point, the Empire Helicopter Tour has specific weight and identification requirements for passengers.

Travelers mustn’t exceed a total weight of 275 lbs, with those over that limit required to purchase an extra seat. Passengers will also need to provide a valid photo ID for security purposes prior to boarding.

These measures are in place to provide a safe and enjoyable aerial experience over the iconic sights of New York City.

Passengers are subject to metal detector and bag inspection, so it’s important to arrive with plenty of time to complete the screening process.

This ensures the safety and comfort of all guests.

Additional Policies and Information

Guests can expect a climate-controlled cabin and live commentary during the aerial tour, providing an immersive and informative experience. Photos taken during the flight are available for purchase, allowing travelers to capture and preserve their memorable moments.

However, window seat assignments aren’t guaranteed, as seating is arranged based on weight distribution and safety considerations. On top of that, on-site parking isn’t provided, so guests will need to arrange their own transportation to and from the designated meeting point.

Key considerations for this tour include:

• Valid photo ID required for all passengers
• Thorough security screening process upon arrival
• Maximum weight limit of 275 lbs per passenger
• Additional seat purchase required for those over 275 lbs

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Duration of the Helicopter Tour?

The duration of the helicopter tour is 30 minutes. According to the details provided, the tour has a total duration of 30 minutes, offering passengers an aerial perspective of the top sights in New York City.

Is Airport Transportation Included in the Tour?

No, airport transportation is not included in the helicopter tour. The tour only includes the helicopter flight with live commentary, and the option to purchase photos. Passengers are responsible for their own transportation to and from the meeting point.

Can I Request a Specific Window Seat?

No, window seat requests cannot be guaranteed on this helicopter tour. Seating is assigned on a shared basis, and the tour operator does not offer the option to reserve a specific window seat.

Are Children Allowed on the Helicopter Tour?

Children are generally allowed on the helicopter tour. However, passengers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Total weight and safety requirements apply to all passengers, regardless of age.

Can I Bring My Own Camera or Drone on the Flight?

Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own cameras on the helicopter flight, but drones are typically prohibited for safety reasons. Passengers should check with the tour operator for any specific policies regarding personal photography equipment.

Recap

The Empire Helicopter Tour offers an unparalleled aerial perspective of New York City’s iconic landmarks.

With a small group and live commentary, passengers can enjoy the city’s most breathtaking sights while capturing stunning photographs through the tour’s climate-controlled cabin.

Whether a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this unique experience promises to provide an unforgettable exploration of the Big Apple from above.