FAQs
What is New York On Air?
The Ultimate Doors-On Helicopter Experience. Fly like the pros into our helicopter, giving you visual access to the world below. Use your creative eye to capture the images that inspire you and challenge your photographic skills. Don’t be fooled, it is not as easy as it looks, but it sure is fun and will encourage you to come back for more.
When is the best time to fly?
For first time aerial photographers, we recommend a flight midday or morning where there is plenty of light to capture the iconic sights from the air. For the more experienced shooter who is looking for a bit of a challenge, a flight at sunset or later is a great option.
What if my flight does not meet its minimum required to fly?
If your flight does not meet the minimum number of passengers required to fly, we may have to adjust your departure time to combine you with other passengers. We’ll always do everything we can to accommodate your original reservation.
What should I bring?
Bring a valid photo ID. (Driver’s License, State ID, or Passport) And a camera* (see more info, below) Camera Gear: We provide tethers and/or cases for smartphones. We allow up to two image capture devices per person on doors-off flights. All photo equipment must have a strap to be securely attached. DSLR, 35mm, Mirrorless, Compact and Point & shoot cameras are all welcome. Lenses must remain attached and may not be switched in flight. If you would like to shoot more than one lens, you must have more than one body. Detachable lens hoods, caps and accessories are to be removed pre-flight. Selfie sticks (longer than a handle/grip) are not allowed. Samsung Galaxy Note 7 phones are not permitted on any flights.
Does flight time start right away?
Yes, flight time is measured from takeoff to landing.
What if the current dates and times do not work with my schedule?
Please contact us, we’d love to see what we need to do to get you in the air.
Can I schedule a private photo flight experience?
Absolutely! Please contact us to discuss options.
Is there any age restriction?
There is no age restriction for doors on flights. Your parent or guardian must be present to sign a consent form if you are under 18. On doors on flights, children under the age of 2 years old may fly as a lap child. All children 2 years or older must have a purchased seat in order to fly.
What do you do if there is bad weather?
Some of the best images come when the weather is not perfectly clear. We will not fly if the weather is not suitable to fly or take pictures. If weather on the day of your flight is questionable, we will make a GO/NO GO decision four hours before your scheduled departure time. Please check your email frequently for updates on the day of your flight and make sure to provide a day of flight contact number on your order.
Do you fly in the winter?
We operate year ’round!
What is the cancellation policy?
Flights are non refundable. Scheduling changes can be made up to 48 hours before flight departure. If you need to reschedule or weather grounds the flight, vouchers will be issued which are redeemable for up to 12 months. Flight vouchers can be transferred to another city or another person.
How does weather insurance work?
In town for a short period of time? Purchase weather insurance to receive a refund for your flight in the event of a cancellation due to weather. If you are unable to reschedule during your visit, a refund will be given for the cost of your purchased seat. Our standard cancellation and scheduling policies still apply. Refunds will be issued only in the event of a weather cancellation by the New York On Air team.
Is there any weight restriction?
Due to weight and balance, any passengers over 310lbs inclusive of all gear will be required to purchase a 2nd seat. However, we will offer the 2nd seat at a 30% discounted rate.
What route do these flights take?
Where do YOU want to go? We tailor the flight to the sites and views you and your copter-mates want to see. We do not have set routes. You’ll be able to discuss your image requests with the pilot during your safety briefing. The NYC Experience is focused on lower Manhattan and the harbor area. With double the time in the air, The NYC Classic can cover most of NYC’s iconic landmarks in one flight, from the Statue up to Central Park.
Note: As a courtesy to the NYC community, Flights will not pass over Central Park during Shakespeare In The Park open-air theatre performances.
How many people fly on each flight?
We take six passengers per flight. Don’t worry; if you’re flying solo, we’ll pair you with other photographers. We require a minimum of three passengers.
When should I arrive?
It is critical that you are on time for preflight information and safety briefing. We’ll make sure waivers are signed, and cameras secured. New York On Air departures require an arrival of 1 hour and 15 minutes prior to flight time. If you do not arrive to our location by the designated time, you will forfeit your flight. We would be happy to arrange transportation for you to ensure you are on time. Just add the car service option to your order and we will coordinate everything for you.