Central Park Helicopter Tour

The Central Park Helicopter Tour offers an exhilarating aerial adventure over the iconic landmarks of New York City. Operated by the experienced team at New York Helicopter Tours, this 30-minute excursion provides breathtaking views of the city’s skyline, the sprawling greenery of Central Park, and the winding rivers that surround Manhattan. With a focus on safety and professionalism, the tour accommodates up to six passengers and ensures a memorable experience. However, travelers should be aware of additional fees and the potential for weather-related cancellations. For those seeking a unique perspective of the Big Apple, this tour may be the perfect addition to their sightseeing plans.

Key Points

• The 30-minute helicopter tour offers aerial views of Central Park, the Hudson and East Rivers, and the iconic Manhattan skyline.
• Passengers can choose between shared tours with up to 6 people or a private tour, with a weight limit of 250 lbs per person.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible and allows for strollers and service animals, with infants required to sit on laps.
• Passengers must arrive 45 minutes prior to the scheduled flight time and provide proper identification, and are subject to potential weather-related cancellations.
• Booking the tour includes a $274 per person fee, with an additional $50 heliport/fuel fee per passenger payable on the day of the tour.

Tour Overview and Details

The Central Park Helicopter Tour is offered by New York Helicopter Tours in New York City, USA.

It’s an 11-review tour that has an overall rating of 4.5 based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews.

The helicopter seats 6 passengers and 1 pilot, and tours are shared unless all seats are purchased for a private tour.

There’s a weight limit of 250 lbs per passenger, and guests are weighed at the facility.

Pricing and Fees

The Central Park Helicopter Tour costs $274.00 per person.

There’s an additional $50.00 heliport/fuel fee per passenger, payable on the day of the tour. For children under 2, the heliport/fuel fee is $50.00.

Late arrivals are subject to fees – $50.00 for 45 minutes late, and $100.00 for 30 minutes or less.

However, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Passengers must arrive 45 minutes prior to the scheduled flight time and bring proper identification.

Meeting Point and Accessibility

The meeting point for the Central Park Helicopter Tour is at 6 East River Piers, New York, NY 10004, which is the Pier 6 Downtown Manhattan Heliport.

The tour begins and ends at this location. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and passengers can bring strollers and service animals. Infants must sit on laps, and the transportation is wheelchair accessible.

Passengers are required to arrive 45 minutes prior to their scheduled flight time and present identification upon arrival.

Flight Conditions and Policies

The Central Park Helicopter Tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. Cancellations may occur due to poor weather, and the tour operator, New York Helicopter, reserves the right to cancel or delay flights for various reasons, including weather, FAA restrictions, and maintenance.

Passengers must arrive 45 minutes prior to their scheduled flight time and bring proper identification. It’s important to note that the tour operator may weigh passengers at the facility, as there’s a total weight limit per passenger.

Customers should familiarize themselves with the tour’s policies, including late fees and cancellation policies, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Customer Reviews

As a review of the Central Park Helicopter Tour, customers have provided mixed feedback.

While some praised the wonderful experience and fantastic views, others criticized the unfriendly staff and extra fees.

The tour received an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on reviews from Viator and Tripadvisor.

Passengers acknowledged the professionalism and safety measures, but a few noted their disappointment with the staff’s demeanor.

Key Highlights

A 30-minute Central Park Helicopter Tour provides passengers with unparalleled aerial views of New York City’s iconic landmarks.

The tour offers:

1. Breathtaking vistas of Central Park, the Hudson and East Rivers, and the Manhattan skyline.
2. Shared tours with up to 6 passengers and 1 pilot, or the option to book a private tour.
3. Wheelchair accessibility and the ability to bring strollers and service animals.

However, passengers should be aware of the $50 heliport/fuel fee per person, as well as late arrival fees.

Weather conditions can also impact flight schedules, so flexibility is key for an optimal experience.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking this Central Park Helicopter Tour is a straightforward process.

The tour’s pricing starts at $274 per person, with an additional $50 heliport/fuel fee that’s paid on-site. Children under 2 have a $50 heliport/fuel fee.

Late arrivals will incur fees of $50 for 45 minutes late or $100 for 30 minutes or less. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Passengers must arrive 45 minutes prior to the scheduled flight time and present identification.

The helicopter can accommodate up to 6 passengers plus the pilot, with a maximum weight limit of 250 lbs per passenger.

Bookings are subject to weather conditions, and the operator reserves the right to cancel or delay flights.

Things To Known

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

Based on the tour details, passengers are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the helicopter tour. The tour operator provides all necessary provisions for the flight.

What Kind of Photography Equipment Is Allowed on the Helicopter?

Passengers are allowed to bring photography equipment like cameras and smartphones on the helicopter tour. The tour operator recommends compact, hand-held equipment for the best experience and safety during the flight.

How Long Is the Actual Flight Duration?

The actual flight duration is approximately 15-20 minutes. This is the typical length of the aerial tour, though it may vary depending on factors like weather conditions and flight route.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Passengers?

There are no explicit age restrictions for passengers on the helicopter tour. Infants must sit on laps, and the total weight limit per passenger is 250 lbs, which may impact participation for certain age groups.

Can I Choose My Own Seating Arrangement in the Helicopter?

Passengers can’t choose their own seating arrangement on the shared Central Park helicopter tour. The seating is arranged by the tour staff to optimize weight distribution and balance in the helicopter.

Sum Up

The Central Park Helicopter Tour offers an unforgettable aerial adventure over New York City’s iconic landmarks. With breathtaking views, a focus on safety, and professional operators, it’s a must-do for those seeking a unique perspective of the city. However, travelers should be aware of additional fees and weather-related cancellations that may impact their experience. The tour provides a thrilling and memorable way to explore the Big Apple from above.