NYC Holiday Lights Helicopter Tour from Westchester — Private Night Flight Over Manhattan
Hover above Manhattan’s holiday glow on a private helicopter departure from Westchester County Airport. This intimate night flight delivers sweeping views of Midtown, Central Park, the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty—plus practical tips for making the most of a weather-sensitive, weight-limited aerial tour.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early for check-in
Plan to be at Westchester County Airport at least 30 minutes before your scheduled flight to complete briefings and weight checks.
Dress in warm layers
Cabin temperatures drop at night—bring a jacket and avoid bulky bags that might crowd the cabin.
Mind weight & height limits
Operators enforce strict weight/balance rules—declare accurate weights when booking and expect possible seat changes at boarding.
Bring a camera with manual exposure
Night skyline shots respond well to higher ISO and steady hands; use a small tripod or stabilizer if allowed.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Look for the Hudson River approach for reflective water shots of the skyline.
- •If airspace permits, pilots may route to show neighborhood displays like Dyker Heights and the bright avenues around Rockefeller Center.
Wildlife
- •Herring gulls along the waterfront
- •Peregrine falcons perched on tall buildings
Conservation Note
Flights follow strict air-traffic and noise-abatement rules; consider offsetting your carbon footprint and choose operators that minimize idle time on the ground.
The Manhattan skyline evolved rapidly in the 20th century; Lower Manhattan’s Freedom Tower marks post-9/11 rebuilding while Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty recall the city’s immigrant past.
Photographer's Notes
- • Circling pass over Midtown for the Empire State Building and Rockefeller Center
- • Lower Manhattan pass to capture Freedom Tower and the Statue of Liberty
- • Hudson River approach for reflective water shots
What to Bring
Photo-ready smartphone or mirrorless cameraEssential
Compact, good low-light performance and quick to use for skyline shots through the window.
Government-issued IDEssential
Required for airport check-in and security paperwork.
Warm insulated jacketEssential
Night flights can feel cold; layers retain warmth without bulk in the cabin.
Small daypack or soft bag
Keeps personal items organized and fits into the compact cabin without obstructing exits.
Common Questions
How long is the helicopter in the air?
Flight legs over Manhattan typically last 20–30 minutes; the full experience (check-in, briefing, optional transfers) runs about 3–4 hours.
Where do flights depart from and return to?
All flights depart and arrive at Westchester County Airport (HPN) in White Plains; optional roundtrip transfers from Manhattan are available for an extra fee.
What are the passenger and weight limits?
Limits depend on the helicopter model—R44s have lower combined weight allowances and a 250 lb max per person; Airbus options carry higher totals. You’ll be asked for weights at booking for safe load planning.
Can infants or children ride?
Yes—infants under 2 may sit on a parent’s lap at no extra cost, but you must note this at booking and flights remain subject to operator rules.
What happens in bad weather?
Flights are weather-dependent; if conditions force cancellation you’ll be offered an alternate date or full refund per the operator’s policy.
Are photos allowed during the flight?
Yes—personal photography is allowed (except Samsung Galaxy Note 7 devices); pilots will often point out the best photo windows and viewpoints.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours (includes check-in and transfers)
Location
White Plains, New York
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required—participants must be able to board and sit safely during flight.
Ready to Explore White Plains?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now