Quick Overview

Departure Points (vary by tour): Many NYC helicopter products depart from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport (DMH), or from New Jersey (e.g., Kearny/Linden) and Westchester County (HPN). Always follow the exact meeting point shown on your ticket.
Typical Check-in: Arrive 30–45 minutes before flight for safety briefing & ID check.
Documents: Government ID required for adult passengers. Seating assigned for aircraft balance.

Best First-Timer Route

If your tour departs from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport (often used for “Big Apple” routes), use subway to South Ferry/Whitehall St/Bowling Green/Wall St and walk 5–10 minutes.

Not Sure Which Heliport?

Click “Meeting point” on your GetYourGuide ticket page or email confirmation. It includes the precise address, check-in window, and local contact for your operator.

Option 1 — Downtown Manhattan Heliport (DMH)

Often used for classic “Big Apple” and Manhattan skyline routes. Check your ticket to confirm.

  • Subway (fast): Use any of the following near Battery/Financial District: 1 to South Ferry, R/W to Whitehall St, 4/5 to Bowling Green, J/Z to Broad St, 2/3 to Wall St. Walk 5–10 minutes to the heliport.
  • On Foot: From Battery Park, follow the East River waterfront south toward the heliport at Pier 6.
  • Rideshare/Taxi: Ask for drop-off near “Downtown Manhattan Heliport” (Pier 6, East River). Build in extra time for traffic/security.

Fees & ID

Expect heliport/security fees or a fuel surcharge at checkout. Carry a government-issued ID. Follow crew instructions during seating and boarding.

Option 2 — New Jersey Departures (Kearny / Linden)

Frequently used for night-time and skyline flights. Your voucher shows the exact NJ heliport.

By Transit + Rideshare

PATH to Journal Square or Newark Penn, then a short rideshare to the heliport. Plan 30–45 minutes buffer for transfers.

Driving

Easiest option. Allow time for highway traffic and check gate/parking instructions in your ticket. Bring your ID for security.

Tip

NJ departures can offer night slots with dramatic city lights and lit bridges—arrive early to enjoy the skyline from ground level before your flight.

Option 3 — Westchester County (HPN)

Used for private charters, couples’ flights, and some shared tours.

By Rail + Taxi

Metro-North (Harlem Line) to White Plains or North White Plains, then a taxi/rideshare to the heliport. Check your product page for the exact hangar/terminal.

Driving

Easiest from northern NYC/suburbs. Verify parking and meeting point on the voucher and arrive 30–45 minutes early.

Private & Proposal Flights

Westchester often hosts private or proposal packages. Pricing is usually per flight (not per seat).

From NYC Airports

JFK → Downtown Heliport

AirTrain JFKJamaica. Then either LIRR to Grand Central Madison (fast) + subway/walk, or E subway → transfer for R/W / 4/5 downtown, then walk 5–10 minutes.

LGA → Downtown Heliport

Q70 SBS to Jackson Heights–Roosevelt Av, then R/W or E → 4/5 to the Financial District. Finish with a short walk to the heliport.

EWR → Downtown Heliport

AirTrain NewarkNJ Transit to Penn Station. Take 1 to South Ferry or R/W to Whitehall St / 4/5 to Bowling Green, then walk 5–10 minutes.

Time Buffers

Build generous buffers for airport → city transfers. If delayed, contact the operator using the number on your ticket.

Practical Tips

Arrive Early

Be at check-in 30–45 minutes before your flight. Night/sunset slots are popular—book ahead.

What to Bring

Government ID, phones/small cameras (no large bags). Wear darker tops to reduce window glare in photos.

Weather & Policies

If conditions aren’t safe to fly, operators reschedule. Many listings offer free cancellation up to the cutoff. Final price may include heliport/security fees and a fuel surcharge.

Getting There Cheatsheet

Common NYC Subway

DMH area: 1 (South Ferry) • R/W (Whitehall St) • 4/5 (Bowling Green) • 2/3 (Wall St) • J/Z (Broad St)

Walk Times (approx.)

South Ferry → DMH: 6–10 min • Bowling Green → DMH: 8–12 min • Wall St → DMH: 10–12 min

Check-in & Seating

30–45 min early; seating assigned for balance; weight limits typically ~125–136 kg (275–300 lb).

Photography

Hold phone near window; disable flash; wear dark clothing to reduce reflections.

Accessibility

Many operators can assist boarding with advance notice. Confirm needs via your ticket page.

Fees

Watch for heliport/security fee & possible fuel surcharge at checkout; ID required.

Ready to Fly?

Pick your departure, plan the fastest route, and arrive early for a smooth check-in. Take off for the best views of New York City—by helicopter.

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