Representing the Helicopter Tourism Industry Since 2014
The Helicopter Tourism and Jobs Council is composed of the operators and employees of the Air Tour Industry in New York City. Our number one priority is the safety and well being of our passengers and employees. Over many years, air tour operators in New York City have undertaken many reforms to ensure our customers receive the best experience possible while also being considerate of the needs of our neighbors and friends in the communities in which we operate.
Helicopter service is an important element in the transportation infrastructure that links New York City to the surrounding region and the nation.
Without the current volume of charter and sightseeing flights, the number of aircraft in the City would decrease, meaning less availability for emergency services. In critical situations, helicopter service is virtually irreplaceable.
The helicopter industry created a total of 444 jobs. Skills developed through these jobs include aviation, aviation support, engineering, marketing, accounting, and more.
In 2023, the average total compensation (wages and benefits) for workers in the helicopter industry was $113,000. 2x as much as the per capita income in NYC.
Jobs within the helicopter industry generate about $45 million dollars in labor income and a total output of $145,000,000.
Businesses headquartered in NYC are among the leading users of the helicopter industry. Corporate charters average 32,500 flights annually.
Assuming the average helicopter trip reduces the travel time of two passengers by 60 minutes. This results in a time travel savings of 65,000 hours annually for business passengers, generating higher productivity and greater value to the companies that employ them.
Depending on the number of riders and length of trip, helicopters can generate less CO2 on a per person basis than car travel. And as the helicopter industry continues to innovate, emissions will continue to decrease.
Helicopter tours fly over homes disrupting daily activities.
Our tours never fly over land and have an approved route entirely out over water.
Helicopter tours are unrelenting and operate continuously.
Our tours operate during set hours every day - never earlier than 9:00 am and never later than 7:00 pm. We also do not fly on Sunday.
The tour industry does not support a substantial number of jobs.
Our industry employs over 200 people. The average salary of $43,000 is higher than the average salary of other workers in the tourism sector.