Manhattan has three public-use heliports: the Downtown Manhattan Heliport at Pier 6 near Wall Street, the East 34th Street Heliport on the East River, and the West 30th Street Heliport on the Hudson River. They serve helicopter transfers to JFK and Newark, flights to the Hamptons and other destinations, charters and, at Downtown, sightseeing tours. Helicopter transfers can turn a long drive into a short flight — but you still need ground transportation to and from the heliport, and schedules depend on weather.

At a glance

Heliport Location Typical uses
Downtown Manhattan Heliport Pier 6, near Wall Street Airport transfers, charters, tours
East 34th Street Heliport East River at 34th Street Airport transfers, charters
West 30th Street Heliport Hudson River at 30th Street Charters, corporate flights

How helicopter transfers work

Passengers book seats or charter an aircraft, arrive shortly before departure, go through a check-in and weight process, and fly to a helipad at or near the airport, where ground transportation connects to the terminal. Baggage limits are stricter than on airlines.

Weather and backup plans

Helicopters are affected by low clouds, storms and wind. If a flight is cancelled, you’ll need a car to the airport at short notice — a good reason to have a car service you can call. Read flight delayed: what happens to your car.

Connecting by car

A chauffeur can bring you to the heliport and meet you on arrival, handling luggage. For Hamptons trips, a car from East Hampton airport completes the journey. Read the Hamptons car service guide, what is an FBO and private aviation transfers.