20-Minute Helicopter Tour of New York
The 20-minute helicopter tour strikes the perfect balance between price and flight time. You'll see the highlights of New York with plenty of time to enjoy the views from above.
Booking Helicopter Flight 20 minutes
A 20-minute helicopter tour of New York: great value for time and price
- This 20-minute flight departs from Downtown Manhattan Heliport at the southern tip of Manhattan. Unlike the 15-minute tour featured on our helicopter tours in New York page, this flight takes you higher into Manhattan. It’s an excellent balance between cost and duration.
- You’ll take off near the Brooklyn Bridge, heading toward Governors Island, and circle the Statue of Liberty for a unique perspective. The helicopter then returns to Manhattan and follows the Hudson River north to the George Washington Bridge. You’ll see Manhattan’s entire length, from the Financial District to the Upper West Side, passing over Greenwich Village, the Meatpacking District, SoHo, Chelsea, Hudson Yards, Hell’s Kitchen, the Theater District, Midtown, and Central Park.
- Iconic New York landmarks visible during your flight include One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, SUMMIT New York observatory, the Chrysler Building, Central Park, and many more.
- The helicopter turns back just before the George Washington Bridge and descends the Hudson River on the return to Downtown Manhattan Heliport. A perfect route to discover New York from the sky at an excellent price.
- Another advantage of the 20-minute flight: recorded commentary is available in French (subject to availability on your flight date).
Your benefits when booking with CNEWYORK
- CNEWYORK provides support throughout your booking process. Our team is here to answer all your questions.
- We confirm your flight with the helicopter operator for you. This required step involves calling an English-speaking line to reconfirm every detail of your reservation. We handle it so you don’t have to.
- We also manage any rescheduling with the operator if you need to change your date or time. This saves you time and eliminates any confusion from language barriers.
- NEW: as of March 2026, the price shown includes mandatory heliport fees of $40 per person. The price you pay on CNEWYORK is all-inclusive. You have nothing more to pay at the heliport.
Practical information for the 20-minute helicopter flight
- The 20-minute flights operate year-round, Monday through Saturday, from 10 am to 4:30 pm. Book as early as possible—demand far exceeds availability. Since New York City banned Sunday sightseeing flights and the city has reduced the annual number of flights, availability is limited.
- You’ll receive an email confirmation as soon as payment is processed on our site through the 20-minute helicopter tour booking module. Your confirmation will include a voucher to present when you check in at the heliport.
- Since September 2025, a valid passport is required to board a helicopter in New York. This applies to all passengers, adults and children alike. Photocopies or smartphone photos of your passport are not accepted—you must present your actual passport, just as you would for a flight.
- If you have questions or need assistance, contact us using our contact form. The CNEWYORK team is here to help.
Frequently asked questions
When should I book the 20-minute helicopter flight in New York?
Book as early as possible. Availability is limited each day, and this flight is in high demand with visitors from around the world because it offers excellent value. New York City has also ordered a reduction in the total number of flights. Secure your spots early to guarantee your preferred date and time.
What's the best time to take the 20-minute flight?
Don’t schedule your helicopter flight on your arrival day in New York to avoid problems if your plane is delayed. Instead, book it during the first few days of your stay. This gives you flexibility if weather forces a cancellation—you’ll have time to reschedule.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my flight?
The helicopter operator closely monitors weather and follows FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) regulations. If conditions don’t allow safe flying, the operator will cancel the flight and contact us immediately. You can then choose a new date or receive a full refund.
Are the heliport fees included in the booking price mandatory?
Yes, heliport fees are mandatory. They’re a charge imposed by the heliport that all passengers must pay. Since this fee is required, we’ve included it in the price so you know the total cost upfront. You have nothing more to pay at the heliport.
Is there a maximum weight limit for helicopter flights in New York?
The weight limit is 250 lb (113 kg) per person. If you exceed this, contact us so we can coordinate your flight details with the helicopter operator.
Route map for the 20-minute New York helicopter flight
The 20-minute flight route is shown in yellow on the map above.