Hudson Valley Fall Foliage Helicopter Tour from Westchester — Aerial Views of Autumn in New York
Skip crowded overlooks and see Hudson Valley autumn from above: a 30–45 minute shared helicopter flight from Westchester that sweeps over estates, river bends and ridgelines at peak color. Perfect for photographers and short-on-time travelers who want a bold, bird’s-eye take on fall foliage.
The Experience
Before You Go
Confirm your pickup time
Call the supplier or confirm your preferred departure time after booking — flights require time-slot confirmation and may need weight details.
Bring a warm, windproof layer
The cabin can feel cold in autumn; a light insulated jacket will keep you comfortable during lift-off and return.
Pack minimal, secured camera gear
Use a short wide-angle and a 70–200mm equivalent; secure straps and avoid loose items that could drop during the flight.
Arrive early for check-in and fees
Plan extra time for the $25 per-person airport fee and security check at Atlantic Aviation West—arriving 30 minutes early is smart.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Bannerman Island ruins (visible on 45-minute tour) — an evocative red-brick ruin in the river
- •Croton Gorge and Croton Dam — dramatic riverfalls viewed at a distance from the air
Wildlife
- •Bald eagle
- •White-tailed deer
Conservation Note
Stick to supplier guidelines to reduce noise and disturbance; the valley’s ecosystems are sensitive during migration and nesting seasons, so operators keep routes and altitudes mindful of wildlife.
The Hudson Valley’s river corridor was a key transportation and industrial artery in the 18th–20th centuries; many grand estates along its banks reflect the wealth of that era.
Photographer's Notes
- • Above Kykuit/Rockefeller estate for estate and river juxtaposition
- • Bear Mountain ridge for sweeping valley scale
- • Bannerman Island (45-min route) for dramatic, isolated architecture
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Keeps you comfortable in the often-chilly helicopter cabin during autumn flights.
Compact camera or smartphone with wide and tele lensesEssential
Wide-angle captures sweeping river vistas; a short telephoto isolates estates and ridgelines.
Government IDEssential
Required for check-in at the airport hangar.
Binoculars (compact)
Small binoculars help pick out details on the river and distant ridgelines during flight.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
Tours run 30 minutes for the shorter route and 45 minutes for the extended route that includes Bannerman Island and additional Palisades views.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights are weather-dependent; if canceled you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund according to the supplier’s policy.
Are children allowed?
Yes—children under 2 may sit on a parent’s lap at no extra charge; minors require parental consent and all passengers must meet weight requirements.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The meeting areas and hangar are wheelchair accessible, but boarding may require assistance—contact the supplier in advance to arrange accommodations.
Are there weight limits?
Yes, there is a maximum weight of 250 lbs (113 kg) per person and combined weight limits per flight for safe weight-and-balance operations.
Is there an extra airport fee?
Yes—a $25 per-person airport fee is payable at time of check-in and is not included in the listed price.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
30–45 minutes
Location
White Plains, New York
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for all ages and physical abilities though boarding requires stepping into the aircraft.
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