Helicopter Filming
Large-scale aerial cinematography with gyro-stabilized camera systems across New York.
Helicopter filming delivers dramatic aerial perspectives with the payload capacity, flight endurance, and altitude range that drones cannot match. In New York, helicopters equipped with gyro-stabilized mounts capture sweeping vistas over Manhattan's skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, the Hudson Valley and Hudson River, the Catskill and Adirondack Mountains, and the Hamptons and Long Island shores.
We coordinate helicopter filming with FAA-certified aviation operators and experienced aerial cinematographers across New York. Our team handles Federal Aviation Administration flight authorizations, NYPD Online Services Portal permits, National Park Service approvals for Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island waters, Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment coordination, and safety planning — so your production captures breathtaking NYC footage while meeting the highest aviation standards.
Complete Helicopter Services
From epic establishing shots to high-speed chase sequences, our helicopter teams deliver cinema-quality aerial footage for large-scale productions.
Cinematic Aerials
- • Epic establishing shots
- • High-speed chase sequences
- • Extended aerial takes
- • Long-range travel shots
- • Large-scale landscape coverage
Camera Systems
- • Gyro-stabilized mounts
- • Cineflex & Shotover systems
- • ARRI & RED cinema cameras
- • Long-range zoom lenses
- • Real-time video downlink
Aviation Compliance
- • FAA flight authorization
- • NYPD permits & airspace coordination
- • NOTAMs & flight plans
- • Full aviation insurance
- • Safety documentation
Safety & Coordination
- • Experienced film pilots
- • Ground safety teams
- • Air-to-ground communication
- • Weather monitoring
- • Emergency protocols
Aerial Cinematography Expertise
When should I choose helicopter over drone filming?
Helicopters are ideal for extended aerial takes over Manhattan, high-speed sequences, shots requiring heavy cinema cameras, long-range coverage across New York State, and situations where drones cannot operate due to FAA restrictions over most of Manhattan airspace, stadiums, and national landmarks. For quick setups and lower altitudes, drones may be more cost-effective.
What camera systems do you use for helicopter filming?
We operate gyro-stabilized systems including Cineflex and Shotover mounts, which can carry ARRI, RED, and other cinema cameras. These systems provide rock-steady footage even during dynamic flight maneuvers and allow remote camera control.
Can you film over Manhattan?
Yes, with proper authorization. Manhattan has extremely restricted airspace, but we can obtain FAA permits and NYPD permits via the NYPD Online Services Portal with 30 days advance application. We coordinate with FAA, NYPD, and MOME to secure necessary approvals for shoots over the skyline, bridges, and harbour.
What types of helicopters do you use?
We work with various helicopter types depending on your requirements—from smaller aircraft for tight urban maneuvers to larger helicopters for heavy camera systems and extended flights over the Catskills and Adirondacks. Aircraft selection depends on shot requirements, locations, and payload needs.
How do you handle air-to-ground coordination?
We use professional radio communication systems for real-time coordination between helicopter crew and ground teams. Directors can communicate with pilots and camera operators, and we provide video downlink for live monitoring of aerial shots.
How far in advance should we book helicopter filming?
We recommend 4-6 weeks minimum for NYC helicopter operations to allow time for FAA authorizations and the 30-day NYPD permit application. Shoots over the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, or historic landmarks typically need longer lead times.
Need Helicopter Filming?
Tell us about your aerial requirements and we'll coordinate experienced helicopter teams.