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If you want to experience New York City in the most unforgettable way possible, there’s nothing like taking an NYC helicopter tour with HeliNY. From soaring over glittering skyscrapers to witnessing the sprawling beauty of Central Park, this aerial adventure gives you a vantage point few ever experience. Whether you’re a seasoned local or a first-time visitor looking for the best attractions NYC has to offer, spotting these iconic landmarks from above with HeliNY will undoubtedly leave you breathless. Here are seven must-see landmarks to look for on your NYC helicopter tour.
There’s no better way to appreciate Lady Liberty than from the sky. As your HeliNY helicopter approaches, you’ll get unparalleled views of her iconic crown and torch against the backdrop of the sparkling waters of New York Harbor. A helicopter tour with HeliNY provides an extraordinary perspective, offering photo opportunities that ground-level viewing can’t match. Keep your camera ready—this moment you won’t want to miss.
Central Park is a lush oasis nestled within Manhattan’s concrete jungle. On your HeliNY helicopter tour, you’ll be amazed at how vast and green this iconic landmark truly is. Spanning 843 acres, Central Park offers spectacular contrasts—verdant lawns, winding paths, picturesque lakes, and historic bridges, all framed by towering skyscrapers. From the sky, you’ll appreciate why Central Park consistently ranks among the best attractions NYC visitors love.
No NYC helicopter tour would be complete without an aerial view of the legendary Empire State Building. At 1,454 feet tall, it’s a mesmerizing sight from above, especially if you catch it glowing during sunset or illuminated at night. Observing this Art Deco masterpiece from your HeliNY helicopter gives you a new appreciation for its architectural brilliance and historical significance.
The Brooklyn Bridge isn’t just a way to cross from Manhattan to Brooklyn; it symbolizes ingenuity and beauty. As your HeliNY helicopter glides above, marvel at the intricate web of cables and Gothic arches spanning the East River. With the skyline in the background, it’s easy to see why this iconic bridge is considered one of the best attractions NYC has to offer.
Standing tall as the Western Hemisphere’s highest building, One World Trade Center is a poignant reminder of resilience and rebirth. During your HeliNY helicopter tour, this sleek, modern skyscraper rises proudly above the city, reflecting the sun and clouds from its glass facade. The entire World Trade Center complex, including the stunning 9/11 Memorial, is especially moving when viewed from above.
Times Square, known worldwide as “the crossroads of the world,” is even more mesmerizing from above. Your HeliNY helicopter tour offers a unique perspective of this vibrant hub, highlighting the colorful LED billboards, bustling streets filled with taxis and tourists, and the pulsating energy that makes Times Square one of the best attractions NYC visitors flock to year-round.
Once an elevated freight rail line, the High Line has been transformed into one of NYC’s most innovative parks—and it’s even more impressive when seen from the sky. As your HeliNY helicopter glides above Manhattan’s West Side, you’ll spot this narrow ribbon of green weaving through the cityscape, lined with modern architecture, public art, and lush gardens. Stretching from the Meatpacking District to Hudson Yards, the High Line is a striking symbol of urban renewal and creativity, making it one of the best attractions NYC has to offer from above.
To make the most of your NYC helicopter tour with HeliNY, here are some quick tips:
Looking for something even more special? HeliNY also offers private helicopter charter services, perfect for personalized sightseeing tours, special events, or business trips around the city and beyond. As you create your itinerary, enjoy exclusive privacy, flexibility, and unmatched comfort.
An NYC helicopter tour with HeliNY is more than just sightseeing; it’s an unforgettable way to experience the city from a unique angle. Spotting these seven iconic landmarks from above will give you incredible photos, lifelong memories, and a deeper appreciation of the Big Apple. No matter which landmarks you prioritize, an aerial tour with HeliNY offers the best of the best attractions NYC proudly showcases, making your trip truly memorable.
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Recognition from the Tour Operators Program of Safety underscores HeliNY's aviation safety and operational excellence leadership 1HeliNY - helicopter sightseeing, charter, and medical transport services NEW YORK, NY, UNITED STATES, November 5, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- HeliNY, New York City's premier provider of helicopter sightseeing, charter, and medical transport services, is proud to announce that it has been awarded certification from the Tour Operators Program of Safety (TOPS)—the nation's most respected safety accreditation program for helicopter tour operators. This distinction marks a significant milestone in HeliNY's commitment to safety, pilot training, and operational integrity. HeliNY is the sole helicopter operator in the New York metropolitan region holding this elite certification. TOPS is an independent nonprofit organization that sets the gold standard for air tour safety—surpassing even FAA requirements. Earning the designation requires compliance with a comprehensive set of safety benchmarks covering pilot qualifications, maintenance programs, risk management systems, and overall safety culture. Certified operators must also undergo annual third-party audits to ensure full compliance and continuous improvement. “We congratulate HeliNY for passing our stringent air tour certification process and becoming a member operator,” said Christopher Young, Executive Director at the Tour Operators Program of Safety (TOPS). “All of our member operators voluntarily hold themselves to a much higher safety standard than other industry operators, and we are thrilled to welcome HeliNY into this organization.” "Being recognized by TOPS is a tremendous honor," said Paul Blodgett, CEO of HeliNY. "It reinforces our belief that unforgettable experiences start with uncompromising safety. As the largest sightseeing helicopter operator in the New York metro area, maintaining the highest levels of safety training and oversight is not just our responsibility—it's our identity." Since 1994, HeliNY has served the New York City metro area with a state-of-the-art fleet of Bell helicopters, operating from two key departure points: the Downtown Manhattan Heliport and Linden Municipal Airport in New Jersey. With over 80,000 collective pilot hours and 78,000 passengers flown annually, HeliNY has earned a reputation as one of the most trusted names in urban air tourism. The achievement of TOPS Certification provides an additional layer of confidence for passengers who choose HeliNY for sightseeing tours, private charters, regional getaways, or medical transportation—knowing their experience meets the industry's highest safety and operational standards. Key Standards Required for TOPS Certification - Annual independent safety audits - Implementation of proactive Safety Management Systems (SMS) - Pilot training and maintenance programs that exceed federal regulations - Transparent reporting and continuous safety enhancement To learn more about the Tour Operators Program of Safety, visit topssafety.org. About HeliNY Founded in 1994, HeliNY (Helicopter Flight Services, Inc.) is the largest sightseeing helicopter operator in the New York metropolitan region. The company provides world-class sightseeing tours, private charters, and medical transport services from Manhattan and New Jersey. Known for its modern Bell 407 fleet, experienced pilots, and exceptional service, HeliNY delivers a range of unforgettable flight experiences—from scenic skyline tours to luxurious regional escapes. Learn more at heliny.com. About TOPS The Tour Operators Program of Safety (TOPS) is the leading independent safety certification for helicopter tour operators across the United States. Through rigorous standards, transparent audits, and a collaborative approach to risk management, TOPS ensures that participating operators maintain the highest levels of safety, maintenance, and operational excellence. Learn more at topssafety.org. Bert Solivan HeliNY (Helicopter Flight Services, Inc.) berts@heliny.com
