Flying gave me a new altitude on life!

One day, I had the privilege of taking the HeliNY New York City Helicopter Tour. Joined by my mother and friend Ricardo, we embarked on a 12 to 15-minute adventure to see the stunning skyline of Manhattan from a unique perspective. Here’s a detailed account of our exciting experience.

Concept

Heli NY offers a variety of helicopter tours, and we chose the New Yorker Tour, priced at $259 per seat. This tour covers highlights from the Statue of Liberty to Central Park, including the New Jersey City skyline and the New York Harbor. Arriving 20 minutes before our 10:30 AM reservation, we were greeted by attentive staff and promptly prepared for our journey.

Design

The process was smooth and efficient. After checking in and securing our belongings in provided lockers, we were guided to the helipad. Safety is a top priority at Heli NY; we were outfitted with parachutes and harnesses, and given clear instructions on what to do. The staff ensured that everyone understood the safety protocols, which was reassuring.

Before boarding the helicopter, an employee with a camera asked if we wanted our picture taken. We agreed, and this photo opportunity was a nice touch, allowing us to have a keepsake of the day. After our flight, we were shown the printed photo and offered the option to purchase it framed. While a thoughtful gesture, the $40 price for a low-quality print in a flimsy frame seemed excessive.

Once on the helipad, we boarded the helicopter. The flight itself was awe-inspiring, offering stunning views of landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and the expansive green of Central Park from above. Seeing all these iconic sights from the sky was a surreal experience, and it was truly a highlight of the tour.

Unfortunately, we had to share the ride with another family, which limited our ability to take the perfect photos we had hoped for. Despite this, the overall experience was still enjoyable. The tour was well-conducted, although at 15 minutes, it felt incredibly short.

Aesthetics

Heli NY’s facilities are modern and well-maintained. The architecture is sleek, and all necessary amenities are up to date, adhering to standard OSHA procedures and safety protocols. We were equipped with all the necessary gear and given a thorough safety briefing, including a video guide. The staff’s professionalism and attentiveness were impressive.

Value

While the experience was undoubtedly memorable, the price is a significant consideration. At $259 per seat for a 15-minute tour, it’s a hefty investment for a brief adventure. The photograph package, priced at $40 for a low-quality print, felt overpriced and didn’t match the high standards of the experience. Nevertheless, the tour offers a unique perspective on New York City that is hard to replicate.

Verdict

Despite the high cost, the Heli NY helicopter tour is an experience worth trying at least once in a lifetime. The breathtaking views and the thrill of seeing New York City from above make it a special adventure.