Helicopter service

“Cheap” helicopter rides between JFK and Manhattan on Delta

I usually pass right over announcements about helicopter service from any city to any airport because the ticket prices seem so outrageous.

But today, perhaps because I’ve just written a column for USA TODAY about cheap excursions from airports, this notice caught my eye.

And while $45 is not cheap, an eight-minute helicopter ride between JFK airport and Manhattan can be a great thrill for not much more than a cab ride into the city. Although cab rides can have their own special, but different, thrills…

For a short time, economy class passengers flying on Delta Air Lines domestic flights to or from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport can take a helicopter between the airport and the city for $45. The regular fare is $159 and is complimentary year-round for eligible First class, Business Class or unrestricted Economy tickets. So $45 is a good deal for this service.

The reduced fare on US Helicopter is good for tickets purchased after Sept. 1 for travel through Oct. 31, 2008. The travel time is eight minutes between New York City Heliports in Midtown and Downtown Manhattan and JFK. Flights operate 27 times a day.