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Your guide to the New York helicopter tours operating hours

NYC helicopter tour operating hours

Helicopter tours from Manhattan

15-minute tour: 9am to 5:30pm (flights available every 30 minutes)
20-minute tour: 9am to 5:30pm (flights available every 30 minutes)
30-minute tour: 9am to 5pm (flights available every hour)

Helicopter tours from New Jersey

30-minute tour: 6pm to 9:30pm (flights available every 30 minutes)

Helicopter tours from Westchester

  • 30-minute tour: 10am to 8:30pm (flights available every 30 minutes)****
  • 45-minute tour: 10am to 8:30pm (flights available every 30 minutes)

*All tours do not operate on Sundays due to New York flight restrictions.

Best time to take an NYC helicopter tour

Peak season vs low season

The best time to ride on a helicopter tour over New York is typically from April to October. You can have a great look at the city all while escaping the strenuous tourist crowds.

Avoid the winter months, specifically January and February, since the city experiences cold temperatures, snowstorms, and icy conditions, making outdoor activities less enjoyable at this time and offering lower visibility.

If you ride on a New York helicopter tour during the spring or fall months, you can be privy to the stunning colors of blooming flowers across the city.

Peak season: April to October
Low season: January to February

Weekday vs weekend

The best time to go on a New York helicopter tour is on a weekday. On weekends, since the service is only available on Saturdays, there is likely to be more of a rush to book the tour.

Taking the weekday tour may also result in less co-passengers allowing a roomy and more personalized experience.

On the other hand, taking the helicopter tour on weekends will give you the unique opportunity of seeing the city come alive in all its hustling-bustling glory! With a plethora of cultural events, bustling markets, vibrant nightlife, the weekend tour will let you see the cityscape in a livelier atmosphere.

Best month to take a helicopter tour

January – February

Winter brings excellent visibility, with crystal-clear air and minimal haze. While temperatures can drop below freezing, the city looks stunning, dusted in snow. Dress warmly, especially if you’re booking an open-door flight.

March – April

Spring begins with mild weather and longer days. March can still be chilly, but April offers comfortable temperatures and blooming parks below, like Central Park bursting with color. Visibility remains strong most days.

May – June

Late spring to early summer is one of the best times to fly. Expect warm but not humid weather, long daylight hours, and vivid skyline views. Sunset flights during this period are spectacular as the light reflects off the glass towers.

July – August

Summer brings bright days and high tourist activity. While humidity can occasionally create haze, morning flights often offer clearer skies. This is a great time for sunset tours, when temperatures drop slightly and the city glows in golden hues.

September – October

Early fall is the most recommended time for helicopter tours. The air is crisp, skies are usually clear, and the fall foliage adds vibrant colors to Central Park and beyond. October sunsets are especially photogenic.

November – December

As winter returns, expect cooler but very clear air, ideal for photography. The city’s holiday lights and decorations make for stunning evening flights. Just be sure to dress warmly, temperatures can dip quickly after sunset.

Frequently asked questions about the NYC helicopter tour timings

Most tours fly every 30 minutes from Manhattan for the 15 and 20 minutes tours from 9am to 5:30pm. Tours fly every 60 minutes for the 30 minute tour from 9am to 5pm from Westchester.

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