Pin helicopter tours offer an exhilarating way to experience New York City’s iconic skyline from above. These tours provide breathtaking aerial views of famous landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Central Park. With various flight durations and options for doors-on or doors-off experiences, pin helicopter tours cater to different preferences and budgets, making them a popular choice for tourists and locals alike seeking a unique perspective of the Big Apple.
What Are the Different Types of Pin Helicopter Tours Available?
Pin helicopter tours in New York City come in various packages to suit different preferences and budgets:
- NYC Experience – Doors Off (16-19 minutes)
- NYC Classic – Doors Off (30-35 minutes)
- NYC Intro – Doors On (15-17 minutes)
- NYC VIP – Doors On (27-30 minutes)
- NYC Grand – Doors On (37-40 minutes)
Each tour offers a unique perspective of the city, with longer tours covering more landmarks and providing a more comprehensive view of New York’s skyline.
How Much Do Pin Helicopter Tours Cost?
The pricing for pin helicopter tours varies based on the duration and type of experience:
Tour Package | Duration | Price per Seat |
---|---|---|
NYC Experience – Doors Off | 16-19 minutes | $149 |
NYC Classic – Doors Off | 30-35 minutes | $275 |
NYC Intro – Doors On | 15-17 minutes | $99 |
NYC VIP – Doors On | 27-30 minutes | $135 |
NYC Grand – Doors On | 37-40 minutes | $275 |
It’s important to note that these prices are base fares and may not include additional fees such as the heliport fee ($40 per person) or optional add-ons like weather insurance or camera rentals.
What Additional Fees Should I Be Aware Of?
When booking a pin helicopter tour, consider the following additional fees:
- Heliport Fee: $40 per person, payable at the time of the tour
- Shoe Selfie Seat Guarantee: Additional $82.35 per person (prices may vary)
- Weather Insurance: Available for an extra fee to allow rescheduling in case of bad weather
- Camera Rental: Starting at $69 for DSLR, mirrorless, or GoPro cameras
What Landmarks Will I See During a Pin Helicopter Tour?
The landmarks you’ll see depend on the tour package you choose. Here’s a general overview:
- NYC Experience and NYC Intro tours typically include:
- Statue of Liberty
- Ellis Island
- Wall Street
- Freedom Tower
- 9/11 Memorial
- The Oculus
- Lower Manhattan
-
Brooklyn Bridge
-
NYC Classic and NYC VIP tours add:
- Empire State Building
- Midtown
- Times Square
- The Vessel
-
Central Park
-
NYC Grand tour covers all the above landmarks plus additional sites, providing a more comprehensive view of Manhattan.
How Can I Book a Pin Helicopter Tour?
Booking a pin helicopter tour is a straightforward process:
- Choose your preferred tour package and date
- Provide personal details and contact information
- Select any additional options (e.g., weather insurance, camera rental)
- Make the payment using accepted methods (usually credit cards or online payment platforms)
- Receive confirmation and tour details
It’s recommended to book in advance, especially for popular time slots like sunset or nighttime flights, to secure your preferred seating and avoid higher prices due to demand.
What Should I Know About the Cancellation Policy?
Pin helicopter tours typically have strict cancellation policies:
- Flights are generally non-refundable without weather insurance
- Rescheduling may be possible but is subject to availability and additional fees
- Weather insurance can provide flexibility in case of unfavorable weather conditions
Are There Any Weight or Age Restrictions for Pin Helicopter Tours?
While specific restrictions may vary by tour operator, general guidelines include:
- Weight limits: Usually around 250-300 lbs (113-136 kg) per person
- Age restrictions: Children under 2 years old are typically not allowed
- Minimum height: Some tours may have a minimum height requirement, often around 34 inches (86 cm)
Always check with the specific tour operator for their exact restrictions and requirements.
What Should I Wear for a Pin Helicopter Tour?
When preparing for your pin helicopter tour, consider the following:
- Wear dark, solid colors to reduce reflections in photos
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can be cooler at higher altitudes
- Wear closed-toe shoes (required for safety reasons)
- Avoid loose items like scarves or hats that could fly off during the flight
For doors-off experiences, secure clothing and long hair is particularly important.
How Safe Are Pin Helicopter Tours?
Pin helicopter tours prioritize safety:
- Operators adhere to strict FAA regulations
- Pilots are highly trained and experienced
- Regular maintenance checks are performed on all aircraft
- Safety briefings are provided before each flight
- Modern helicopters are equipped with advanced safety features
While no activity is without risk, helicopter tours have a strong safety record when conducted by reputable operators.
What Makes Pin Helicopter Tours Unique Compared to Other NYC Experiences?
Pin helicopter tours offer several unique advantages:
- Unparalleled views: See New York City from a perspective impossible to achieve from the ground
- Time-efficient sightseeing: Cover major landmarks in a short time
- Photographic opportunities: Capture stunning aerial shots of the cityscape
- Thrilling experience: Enjoy the excitement of flying in a helicopter
- Customizable options: Choose from various tour lengths and styles to suit your preferences
These tours provide a memorable and distinctive way to experience New York City’s grandeur and beauty.
By offering a bird’s-eye view of one of the world’s most iconic cities, pin helicopter tours create unforgettable memories and provide a unique perspective on New York’s architectural marvels and urban landscape. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, these tours offer an exhilarating way to rediscover the Big Apple from above.
References:
1. https://travel-shark.com/new-york-helicopter-tour/
2. https://helicopterthrills.com/new-york-helicopter-tours/
3. https://www.kbfs.us/services/helicopter-tours-charters/