Kearny, New Jersey serves as a convenient launch point for thrill-seekers looking to experience the Big Apple from an aerial perspective. The NYC helicopter tour offers breathtaking views of iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge. With a quick 10-15 minute flight and an intimate group setting, passengers can soak in the bustling city skyline. But before embarking on this unforgettable adventure, there are a few important details to consider.
Key Points
- Helicopter tours depart from Kearny, NJ, offering a unique aerial perspective of iconic New York City landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge.
- Tours are approximately 10-15 minutes long and accommodate a maximum of six passengers for an intimate experience.
- Passengers must arrive at least one hour prior to the scheduled flight time and pay an additional $50 heliport/fuel fee on-site.
- Weight restrictions of 250 lbs per person and 249 lbs total per passenger are enforced, with an additional seat required if exceeded.
- Customers can take advantage of a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled flight, but late arrivals incur penalties up to $100.
Tour Overview
New York City offers a unique aerial perspective through helicopter tours, allowing visitors to experience the city’s iconic landmarks from above.
These tours provide a 10-15 minute flight, showcasing sights like the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Wall Street, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
With a maximum of six travelers per flight, the experience offers an intimate and personalized view of the city.
Multiple daily departures are available, accommodating various schedules.
Passengers are advised to arrive at least one hour prior to their scheduled flight time to ensure a seamless experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in New York City.
Pricing and Fees
The base price for the NYC helicopter tour is $200.00 per person.
Additional fees include a $50.00 heliport/fuel fee per person, payable on-site.
There’s also a $50.00 fee for children under 2 years old.
Late arrivals face penalties – $50.00 for 45 minutes late, and $100.00 for 30 minutes or less before the flight.
However, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
Meeting Point and Shuttle Service
The meeting point for the NYC helicopter tour is located at 78 John Miller Way, Kearny, NJ 07032.
Call the shuttle bus upon arrival for transport to the heliport. The shuttle is identifiable by its light blue color with red and white helicopter logo.
Arrive at least one hour prior to your scheduled flight time. This will ensure a smooth check-in process and timely departure.
- Conveniently located meeting point
- Reliable shuttle service to heliport
- Arrive an hour early to avoid delays
- Shuttle marked with distinctive colors and logo
- Ample time for check-in and boarding
Passenger Requirements
Passengers must adhere to certain requirements when booking and participating in the NYC helicopter tour.
The company has a weight limit of 250 lbs per person, with a total weight per passenger of 249 lbs. Passengers will be weighed upon arrival, and those exceeding the weight limit must purchase an additional seat.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, stroller accessible, and allows service animals. Infants must sit on laps during the flight.
These policies ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers throughout the helicopter experience.
Accessibility
The NYC helicopter tour offers accessibility features to accommodate passengers with varying needs.
Wheelchair users and those with strollers can easily join the tour. Service animals are welcome aboard the aircraft. Infants under 2 years of age can sit on a parent’s lap during the flight.
However, passengers should be aware of the weight restrictions, as those exceeding 250 lbs per person or 249 lbs total will need to purchase an additional seat.
These accessibility considerations ensure a comfortable and inclusive aerial experience for all travelers.
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Infants on laps
- Weight restrictions in place
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Customer Reviews
Feedback from past participants offers a mixed perspective on the NYC helicopter tour experience. With 531 reviews, the tour has received a combination of positive and negative comments.
Positive feedback highlights the professionalism of the staff, the safety of the flights, and the enjoyment of seeing the city from the air.
However, negative reviews cite issues with late fees, poor customer service, and logistical challenges in reaching the meeting point.
Recommendations suggest booking well in advance and planning ample travel time to the meeting location in Kearny, New Jersey to avoid potential problems.
Booking in Advance
Because of the popularity of the NYC helicopter tour, it’s recommended to book in advance. The tour often sells out, especially during peak travel seasons.
Booking early ensures availability and secures the desired flight time. Plus, advance booking allows for proper planning and reduces the risk of missing the flight due to unexpected delays.
Key benefits of booking in advance include:
- Guaranteed tour availability
- Flexible scheduling
- Stress-free experience
- Ample time for travel to the meeting point
- Avoidance of late fees
This proactive approach optimizes the overall helicopter tour experience.
Reaching the Meeting Location
One key consideration for the NYC helicopter tour is reaching the meeting location in Kearny, New Jersey. The tour departs from 78 John Miller Way, about 12 miles outside Manhattan.
Travelers must call for a shuttle upon arrival to be transported to the heliport. The shuttle is easily identifiable by its light blue color with a red and white helicopter logo.
Guests are advised to arrive at least one hour prior to their scheduled flight time to ensure a smooth check-in process. Allowing ample time for transportation and check-in is crucial for a stress-free experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Flight?
No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the flight. The tour provider doesn’t allow outside food or beverages to be brought on board. They offer limited refreshments for purchase during the experience.
Are Photographs or Videos Allowed During the Helicopter Tour?
Photographs and videos are allowed during the helicopter tour. However, passengers are advised to use handheld cameras and avoid obstructing the views of other passengers. Flight crew may request passengers to put away cameras at certain times for safety reasons.
What Are the Safety Procedures Followed During the Flight?
The helicopter tour follows strict safety protocols, including pre-flight safety briefings, mandatory seatbelt use, and adherence to FAA regulations. Passengers’ weights are checked to ensure the aircraft stays within safe operating limits.
Can I Request a Specific Route or Sightseeing Area?
Passengers can’t request a specific route or sightseeing area. The tour follows a standardized flight path to showcase key New York City landmarks. However, the tour operator may accommodate special requests if feasible and within safety guidelines.
Do the Pilots Provide Commentary During the Helicopter Tour?
The pilots provide engaging commentary during the helicopter tour, describing the key sights and landmarks as passengers enjoy the aerial views of New York City. This adds an informative and educational element to the experience.
Sum Up
The NYC helicopter tour from Kearny, NJ offers an unparalleled aerial experience. Passengers can marvel at iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge during the 10-15 minute flight. With a maximum of six travelers per group, the tour provides an intimate and memorable adventure above the bustling city skyline. Arriving at least an hour early ensures a smooth check-in and boarding process, so you don’t miss out on this exhilarating opportunity.
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