Avoiding the gridlocked traffic of Manhattan this summer just got easier for guests staying at some of the city’s top luxury hotels. Marriott International Luxury Group has recently announced a special perk for its guests – free helicopter transfers from both John F. Kennedy International Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport starting from July 1 to Sept. 2. This exclusive service aims to provide guests with a faster and more convenient mode of transportation, reducing travel time from the airports into Manhattan to as little as five minutes.
The complimentary helicopter transfers are available for guests who are staying at least two nights in one of the six luxurious Manhattan hotels under Marriott’s banner. These hotels include The St. Regis New York, JW Marriott Essex House New York, W New York – Union Square, The New York EDITION, The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad, and The Luxury Collection Hotel Manhattan Midtown. Upon arrival in Manhattan, guests will be transported to their hotels in style via a waiting car service at either Blade Lounge East on East 34th Street or the newer Blade Lounge West on West 30th Street.
While the convenience of helicopter transfers may seem enticing, it does come at a cost. Guests looking to avail of this exclusive perk must book a certain type of suite at the specified hotels, as entry-level rooms do not qualify. Suite rates at Marriott’s five-star luxury hotels in New York can be quite steep, with The Ritz-Carlton NoMad’s “Liberty Suite” averaging around $3,500 per night. Additionally, the round-trip helicopter transfer itself starts at $390 for the basic fare and can go up to $500 for a “Maximum Flexibility Fare.” Ground transportation to and from the Blade lounges is an additional $180, making this luxury experience reserved for those willing to splurge.
Guests who are staying in rooms rather than suites at the designated hotels are not completely left out. They are eligible for discounts on Blade’s services this summer, offering them a taste of luxury transportation at a more affordable rate. Blade, known for its on-demand helicopter services, started operating in the New York area back in 2019, months ahead of Uber Copter. The service provided by Blade offers travelers a high-end and efficient mode of travel to and from the airports, with one seat on their airport transport service costing $195 at the time.
By providing guests with the option to travel via helicopter, Marriott International Luxury Group is elevating the travel experience for those seeking a luxurious and hassle-free stay in New York City. The convenience and exclusivity of this offer cater to discerning travelers looking for a premium way to navigate the bustling cityscape of Manhattan.