BLADE's Insider Guide to Helicopters Versus Seaplanes

One of the most common questions we receive at BLADE is whether a flier should choose a helicopter or seaplane for their trip.

Here are some insider tips on the differences between both forms of air travel and why you might want to choose one over another.

How BLADE helps travelers choose between helicopters and seaplanes

Choosing between a helicopter and a seaplane is less about which aircraft is better and more about which one fits your route, timing, and destination. Blade operates both helicopters and seaplanes across the Northeast, which allows travelers to select the aircraft that best matches their specific travel needs rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all option. Whether the priority is minimizing crosstown traffic in Manhattan, reaching a wider range of Hamptons destinations, or departing early in the morning with greater weather flexibility, Blade structures its service around these real-world considerations.

When is a helicopter the right choice?

Seaplanes only land on the East Side of Manhattan. Given the traffic between the East Side and the West Side, the driving commute crosstown could be longer than your flight to the Hamptons. So if the West Side is much more geographically convenient, a helicopter may be the way to go.

Helicopters have many more potential destinations for by-the-seat travel, as the majority of BLADE flights by seaplane are only to or from East Hampton. If you would like to fly to or from Quogue, Southampton, or Montauk, there are far more helicopter flight choices.

Helicopter vs seaplane travel from Manhattan: what actually matters

For most travelers departing Manhattan, the choice between a helicopter and a seaplane comes down to geography and time sensitivity. Helicopters offer greater flexibility across Manhattan, with indoor lounges and access to more destinations throughout the Hamptons. Seaplanes are optimized for East Side departures and waterfront arrivals, making them ideal for travelers whose origin or destination is directly on the water. Understanding where ground travel time creates friction is often the deciding factor, not the flight duration itself.

When is a seaplane the right choice?

The BLADE seaplanes are usually positioned overnight at East Hampton airport ahead of next-day morning flights. So, if you need to depart from the Hamptons before 10 AM, we highly recommend that you book a BLADE Aqua Seaplane, which operates with a greater level of all-weather capability. While inclement weather can always delay or cancel flights on any aircraft, booking a seaplane flight will minimize the chance of your schedule being disrupted for isolated cloud cover and transient weather conditions.

Additionally, any passenger over 200 pounds will be much more comfortable on a seaplane as they are generally more spacious than helicopters.

Seaplanes also have greater flexibility for baggage. Regardless, please consult a BLADE representative ahead of your flight to discuss any baggage in excess of 25 lbs per person. Golf clubs may be permitted upon prior request for seaplane flights only.

If you have a home on a large body of water such as Sag Harbor/North Haven, Shelter Island, Peconic Bay, or Fort Pond, seaplanes can land at or right near your home on the water.

The BLADE Aqua EX features a jet interior and is 15% faster than a BLADE Xcel helicopter.

Out Manhattan BLADE Aqua Seaplane Lounge is located outdoors, on the water, while our three Manhattan helicopter lounges are indoors.

Which option is best for your trip

The best aircraft choice depends on how you plan to use it. Helicopters are typically preferred when flexibility, destination variety, and avoiding crosstown traffic are priorities. Seaplanes are often the better option for early morning departures, waterfront access, and passengers seeking a more spacious cabin with additional baggage flexibility. By offering both options, Blade allows travelers to choose based on practical travel constraints rather than aircraft limitations.