New York (Skyports SPB)

New York Skyports Seaplane Base (NYS) offers perhaps the most cinematic way to arrive in the "Big Apple." Forget hour-long traffic jams from major international hubs: here, your journey concludes with a spectacular landing on the waters of the East River, surrounded by legendary skyscrapers. This unique transport hub, devoid of conventional runways, combines the spirit of aviation romance with exceptional efficiency, allowing you to be in the center of Manhattan in mere minutes.

Skyports Seaplane Base is not just a transit point, but an exclusive experience that turns a routine trip into a memorable event. Here are the main advantages and features of this location:

• Location in the Heart of the City: The terminal is located on 23rd Street, directly on the water. Stepping off the seaplane, you immediately enter the thick of city life, bypassing bridges and tunnels.
• Instant Boarding: There are no tedious security checks or endless queues typical of large airports here. The check-in and boarding process takes minimal time.
• Panoramic Views: Taking off and landing on the water reveals stunning angles of the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Manhattan skyline.
• Convenient Destinations: The airfield serves as a main departure point for express flights to The Hamptons, Shelter Island, as well as regular flights to Boston Harbor and Washington D.C.

• Airport Address: 2430 FDR Drive, New York, NY 10010, USA (located by the East River, entrance from 23rd Street).
• Information Service Phone: +1 212-686-4546 (Skyports Complex Administration / Parking).
• Official Airport Website: There is no single information portal for passengers, as the terminal serves as a base for private carriers. Management is handled by New York Skyports (skyports.com), while tickets and schedules should be sought on the operators' websites (most commonly Blade or Tailwind Air).
• Email: There is no general public email for inquiries. It is recommended to use the contact forms on the website of your chosen airline.
• Airport Social Media: The airfield does not have its own official pages. Current news and photos are best found on the social media accounts of the air carriers (for example, Blade accounts).
• Lost Luggage Information: Lost item issues are handled by representatives of the specific airlines inside the terminal. You should contact the carrier directly immediately after the flight.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Support is provided by the airlines. For Blade clients: +1 844-359-2523; for Tailwind Air passengers: +1 212-328-9145.

The main advantage of Skyports Seaplane Base (NYS) is its phenomenal location. Unlike large international hubs, it is located directly in the city center, on the eastern shore of Manhattan. Getting here is as simple as going to a restaurant or office in the Gramercy district. The terminal is situated by the East River, at the end of 23rd Street, next to the FDR Drive highway.

Public Transport

Thanks to its central location, the hydroport is easy to reach using New York's extensive public transport network (MTA). This is the most budget-friendly way to get to the departure point.

• Bus: The most convenient option is the M23-SBS (Select Bus Service) route, which runs across Manhattan along 23rd Street. The final stop is in immediate proximity to the entrance of the marina and Skyports terminal.
• Subway: The nearest subway station is 23rd Street (Line 6, green line), located at the intersection with Park Avenue. From the subway, you will need to walk about 10–15 minutes towards the river or transfer to the M23 bus.
• Ferry: A scenic way to get to the location is to use the NYC Ferry system. The nearest pier, Stuyvesant Cove (Soundview Route), is within walking distance (about 5–7 minutes walk along the waterfront).

Taxi and Transfers

For those who value time and comfort, a taxi or car booking via apps (Uber, Lyft) will be the optimal choice. It is sufficient to tell the driver the address: "East 23rd Street and FDR Drive" or simply "New York Skyports Seaplane Base." A trip from Times Square or Central Park usually takes 15–20 minutes, provided there is no heavy traffic. The estimated cost of a trip from central Manhattan is 20–35 dollars.

Car and Parking

If you prefer personal transport, you can reach the hydroport via the FDR Drive highway (Exit 7 to 23rd Street). A unique feature of this place is the presence of its own parking lot right on the complex territory.

The Skyports Parking Garage is located directly at the terminal. This is one of the few parking facilities in Manhattan located right by the water. Parking costs here correspond to the standard high rates of central New York, but the convenience is worth it if you are flying for a short period.

Transfers from Other Airports

Passengers often use seaplanes for transfers after arriving in New York on international flights. Travel time to Skyports depends heavily on traffic on bridges and in tunnels.

• LaGuardia Airport (LGA) — the nearest major airport (about 10 km). A taxi ride will take 25–40 minutes.
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) — located approximately 20 km away. You should allocate from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours for the road depending on traffic.
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) — located in the neighboring state of New Jersey (17.6 km). The transfer can take about an hour due to the need to cross the Hudson.
• For private aviation, Teterboro Airport (TEB) is often used, located 15 km from the city.
• The most distant option is Westchester County Airport (HPN), the road from which will take more than an hour.

For the fastest movement between major airports and the Skyports base, some travelers book a helicopter transfer (for example, via the Blade service), which reduces travel time to 10 minutes.

Unlike giant international hubs with their confusing labyrinths of corridors, the structure of Skyports Seaplane Base (NYS) is distinguished by extreme conciseness and comfort. This is not a classic airport in the usual sense, but a compact city base (FBO), where all infrastructure is created to maximize time savings for passengers.

Number of Terminals and Layout

The Skyports complex represents a single terminal, combined with a multi-level parking garage and marina. There is no division into "Terminal 1" or "Terminal 2," nor is there a need to use internal trains or buses. The entire space is organized so that the path from the car door to the seaplane ramp takes mere minutes.

The terminal building essentially represents a cozy waiting area, reminiscent of the lobby of a fine hotel or a business lounge.

Service Zone Features

Inside the complex, passengers are met by check-in counters of major operators (such as Blade or Tailwind Air) and comfortable lounge zones. Here you can have coffee, use Wi-Fi, and prepare for the flight in a calm atmosphere.

• Departure Zone: After a brief check-in, passengers wait for the boarding invitation in the lounge. When the aircraft is ready, a staff member escorts the group directly to the pier by the water.
• Arrival Zone: Arrival takes place at the same pier. Passengers disembark and immediately head to the city exit or to their cars in the parking lot. Flows of departing and arriving passengers are separated in time or space on the pier, so congestion does not occur.

Procedure Times

One of the main advantages of flying through Skyports is the absence of exhausting security checks typical of commercial aviation (TSA). There are no shoe scanners or restrictions on liquids in carry-on luggage in the form passengers of large liners are accustomed to.

• Check-in: Takes literally a couple of minutes. You just need to present identification (passport or ID).
• Screening: Conducted visually and quickly, without queues.
• Recommended Arrival Time: Most carriers ask you to be on-site just 15–20 minutes before departure. This is quite enough to drop off luggage (if any) and have a cup of coffee.

Navigation and Transfers

It is impossible to get lost in Skyports. Navigation is intuitive: the entrance to the building is located on the side of the driveway running parallel to 23rd Street and FDR Drive. Signs clearly indicate the entrance to "Skyports Seaplane Base."

Since there is one terminal, no complex transfers are required. The entire path from the building entrance to the seat in the plane is less than 100 meters. This makes the hydroport an ideal choice for passengers with limited mobility or those traveling with children, as long walks and stairs are absent.

The history of Skyports Seaplane Base (NYS) is a fascinating chapter in the annals of New York aviation, taking us back to times when flying boats were considered the future of passenger transport. This facility appeared thanks to the ambitious vision of city authorities striving to make New York the main aviation hub of the East Coast.

Founding and the La Guardia Era

The official opening of the base took place in 1939. The initiator and main inspiration for the project was the legendary Mayor of New York, Fiorello La Guardia. He understood that for business people, time is the most valuable resource, and the ability to land on water just minutes from Manhattan offices would be a huge advantage. Construction was carried out under the Works Progress Administration (WPA) program, designed to create jobs during the Great Depression.

Initially, the facility was named Gulf Marine Terminal, as the oil company Gulf Oil acted as a partner and operator of the aircraft refueling station. It was a unique multimodal complex for its time: it combined a dock for seaplanes and an innovative garage for automobiles.

Architectural Features and Development

The complex building is notable not only for its aviation function but also for its architecture. The Skyports garage, built in a style close to Art Deco and functionalism, became one of the first structures of its kind in the city. Its design allowed for the efficient storage of cars for passengers transferring from personal transport to a plane. While many other seaplane bases closed after World War II with the development of jet aviation and the construction of giant land airports, the base on 23rd Street managed to survive and adapt.

Modern Stage

In recent decades, Skyports has experienced a renaissance of sorts. If in the mid-20th century it was a base for private enthusiasts and rare courier flights, today it is an elite transport hub. Modernization has touched the interior premises: comfortable lounge zones for passengers appearing to business class standards have appeared. The arrival of operators such as Blade and Tailwind Air has turned the historic pier into a high-tech hub for quick connections to suburbs and resorts.

Interesting Facts from NYS History:

• Cinematic Fame: Thanks to its location and authentic look, the hydroport has repeatedly been caught in camera lenses. It can be seen in various films and series set in New York.
• Longevity Record: It is one of the oldest continuously operating seaplane bases within a major US city. It has been functioning for over 80 years, surviving the era of decline in hydro-aviation.
• Parking for Seaplanes: In the early years of operation, the terminal offered a unique service — the ability to lift a seaplane out of the water and store it in a hangar protected from the elements, which was a rarity for urban conditions.
• Connection with the UN: The airport's location near the UN headquarters historically made it a convenient arrival point for diplomats and VIPs wishing to avoid traffic jams.

Given the unique format of New York Skyports Seaplane Base (NYS) as a compact urban hub for private and business aviation, the range of services here differs significantly from what tourists are used to seeing in large international airports. An atmosphere of intimacy and exclusivity reigns here: instead of endless rows of Duty-Free shops and food courts, the emphasis is on speed of service and comfortable waiting in a business-class style.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Shops

Inside the terminal, there are no full-service restaurants or shopping galleries, as the airport concept assumes passengers spend minimal time here before departure (usually 15–20 minutes). However, it is difficult to stay hungry:

• In Lounge Zones: Passengers (especially clients of premium carriers like Blade) are often offered complimentary refreshments, including coffee, water, as well as light snacks, fresh pastries, and in the evening, beverages.
• Near the Terminal: Since the airport is located on 23rd Street in Manhattan, dozens of cafes and restaurants in the Gramercy and Kips Bay districts are within walking distance (5–10 minutes).
• Shopping: There are no shops inside. If you need to buy something for the road, it is better to do so in the city before arriving at the port.

Waiting Halls and VIP Services

The entire passenger terminal at Skyports essentially represents one large zone of enhanced comfort. There is no rigid division into a "general hall" and "business lounge" in the usual sense, as almost all flights fall into the premium category.

• Operator Lounges: Airlines design their waiting areas in the style of stylish lobby bars or living rooms. Soft sofas, designer furniture, and counters are installed here. This is an ideal place for a short rest before a flight or a meeting with business partners.
• Personal Service: Concierge service meets guests, helps with luggage, and escorts them to the aircraft.

Communication and Technology

Understanding the needs of business people who make up the main audience of the hydroport, the terminal is equipped with everything necessary for work:

• Wi-Fi: Fast and free wireless internet is available throughout the complex.
• Charging Stations: Waiting areas are provided with a sufficient number of outlets and USB ports for charging gadgets before the flight.

Financial and Medical Services

Due to the compactness of the building (which is, in essence, an extension to the parking garage), some services are absent:

• Banks and Currency Exchange: There are no currency exchange points or bank branches inside the terminal. It is recommended to settle financial matters beforehand in the city. The nearest ATMs are located on 1st and 2nd Avenues.
• Medical: There is no medical center or pharmacy in the building. In emergencies, staff call city emergency services, which arrive in minutes thanks to the location in the city center. The nearest major hospitals (for example, NYU Langone Health) are just a few blocks away.

Services for Passengers with Children

Specialized mother and child rooms or play areas are not provided at Skyports. Nevertheless, traveling with children here passes comfortably thanks to the absence of queues and crowds. Staff are always ready to help parents with strollers during boarding and disembarking.

Services for Passengers with Reduced Mobility

The terminal complies with American accessibility standards (ADA):

• Accessible Environment: The building entrance is equipped with ramps, and there are elevators for moving between parking levels and the check-in area.
• Staff Assistance: Since the distance from the entrance to the plane is minimal, employees personally escort passengers requiring assistance when boarding the seaplane (it is worth noting that boarding the plane itself may require some agility, so it is better to notify the carrier in advance about the need for assistance).
• Restrooms: Specially equipped cabins are available.

Hotels and Accommodation

There are no hotels directly in the airport building, but the location in central New York opens access to the city's best hotels. The nearest options (5–10 minutes by taxi):

• Gramercy and Flatiron District: Here you will find famous hotels such as The New York EDITION, Gramercy Park Hotel, and Freehand New York.
• Proximity to Midtown: Luxurious hotels in the Empire State Building and Park Avenue area can be reached in just 15 minutes.

Conference Rooms and Business Centers

There are no special conference rooms for rent inside the terminal. The waiting area is suitable for short informal talks, but for full meetings and presentations, passengers usually use the business centers of their hotels or offices in Manhattan, which are very close by.

The gastronomic experience at Skyports Seaplane Base (NYS) differs radically from what passengers of large international hubs are accustomed to. Here you will not find noisy food courts, chain fast-food establishments, or full-service sit-down restaurants. Since Skyports is a compact city terminal (FBO) oriented towards express service and business aviation, the dining concept here is built around the "business lounge" format and exclusive bars.

Inside the Terminal: Lounge Zone and Bars

The only area where you can have a snack directly before departure is the client zones of air carriers (for example, BLADE Lounge), located inside the main building. This space combines the functions of a waiting room and a stylish bar.

• Assortment: The main focus is on beverages. You will be offered espresso, cappuccino, premium brand mineral water, as well as (depending on the time of day) various refreshments and signature drinks. Food options include light snacks: fresh pastries (croissants, muffins), fruits, yogurts, nut mixes, and chocolate.
• Signature Offerings: A trademark of local lounges is the serving of signature beverages in branded spill-proof cups ("sippy cups"), which can be taken with you directly on board the seaplane. This is a sort of ritual for those heading to The Hamptons for the weekend.
• Price Range: In most cases, drinks and light snacks are included in the ticket price. If additional items are offered, prices will be higher than average for the city (a premium drink from $15–20).
• Location: The waiting area is on the first floor of the terminal, immediately behind the check-in counter. The division into "secure" and "public" zones is nominal here; access to the lounge opens immediately after document verification.

Dining Options Outside the Terminal (Landside)

Since the airport is located in central Manhattan, it is better to plan a full lunch or dinner in the city. The nearest establishments are just a 5–10 minute walk from the terminal entrance, along 23rd Street and at the intersection with 1st and 2nd Avenues.

• For a Quick Snack: A block from the waterfront, you can find classic New York bagel shops and delis. This is an excellent opportunity to try a real New York bagel with lox and cream cheese before your flight.
• Full Lunch: The Kips Bay and Gramercy districts are famous for their restaurants. Italian trattorias, American diners, and Asian bistros are represented here. The average check for lunch will be $25–50 per person.

Dietary Needs and Special Requests

Inside the terminal, choices for people with special dietary needs are limited.

• Vegetarians and Vegans: Fresh fruits and nuts are usually available in the lounge. Plant-based milk for coffee is generally available, but it is better to check with the staff.
• Gluten-Free: Specialized gluten-free products may not be available at the airport bar, so it is recommended to bring a snack with you.
• Halal and Kosher: There is no certified food inside the terminal, but thanks to the location in New York, you will easily find corresponding restaurants or food trucks (Halal carts) a few blocks from the port on 23rd Street.

Opening Hours

Bars and service areas inside the terminal operate strictly in accordance with the flight schedule. They open 30–60 minutes before the first morning flight (usually around 06:30–07:00) and close after the departure of the last flight (approximately at 19:00–20:00, or until sunset, as seaplanes fly only during daylight hours).

Recommendations for Passengers

If you have spare time, the best strategy is to have breakfast or lunch in the city, and arrive at the airport 20 minutes before departure to enjoy a cup of coffee or a refreshing beverage with a view of the East River before boarding. Relying on Skyports as a place for a substantial meal is not advisable.

Traveling through Skyports Seaplane Base (NYS) is a unique experience that has nothing in common with the stress typical of large international hubs. An atmosphere of a private club reigns here, and rules are dictated by the specifics of small aviation. To ensure your flight goes perfectly, it is worth considering several important nuances.

Optimal Arrival Time

Forget the rule of "arriving 2–3 hours early." At Skyports, this would be a waste of time. Since there are no long queues for screening, the optimal arrival time is 20–30 minutes before departure. This is enough to check in at the counter, drop off luggage, and have a coffee. However, being late is strictly prohibited: seaplanes fly on a rigid schedule, and the aircraft will not wait.

Check-in and Safety: What to Expect

The security procedure here is simplified as much as possible. You do not need to remove shoes, belts, or take out laptops. The main feature of check-in is weight control. Since balance is critically important for seaplanes:

• You may be asked to step on scales (this is a standard procedure, no need to be shy).
• Your luggage will be weighed to the pound.
• Documents are checked quickly; a passport or ID is sufficient.

Carry-on and Luggage: What is Allowed

Luggage transport rules here are dictated by the size of the aircraft (usually a Cessna Caravan or similar).

• Weight Limit: Strictly monitor the limits. The standard allowance is often around 25 pounds (11–12 kg). You will have to pay extra for excess weight, and it may be sent on the next flight or by ground transport.
• Type of Bags: It is strongly recommended to use soft bags (soft-shell). Hard suitcases on wheels are difficult to place in the compact luggage compartment of a seaplane.
• Liquids: Unlike TSA, there is generally no ban on carrying liquids over 100 ml here. You can take a bottle of water or your favorite beverage if it is unopened (however, consuming beverages on board is allowed only if offered by the carrier).
• Prohibitions: Weapons, explosives, and dangerous items are strictly prohibited, as in any aviation.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane

Tickets for seaplanes usually do not specify specific seats. Seating is handled by the pilot based on the aircraft's center of gravity (weight distribution).

• If sitting by the window or together with a companion is crucial for you, mention this to the pilot or staff when boarding, but be prepared that you may be moved for flight safety.
• Insider Tip: Sometimes there is a chance to occupy the co-pilot seat if the flight is not full and regulations allow it. This ensures the best view of New York, but you need to ask about this politely and in advance.

For Passengers with Connections

If Skyports is part of your complex itinerary (for example, you arrived at JFK and are transferring to a seaplane to The Hamptons):

• Allocate spare time for the ground transfer between airports. New York traffic jams are unpredictable, especially in the Midtown Tunnel.
• If you are carrying large suitcases for an international flight, contact the seaplane operator airline in advance. Large luggage often does not fit in the cabin and requires delivery arrangements (valet service) to the final point for a separate fee.

Customs Control

Skyports serves primarily domestic flights (New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maryland states). There is no customs and border control in the usual form here. However, if you are an international tourist, always have your foreign passport with you, as it is your main form of identification.

Saving Time and Money

• Apps and Subscriptions: Operators like Blade or Tailwind often offer "commuter passes" or discounts when booking through the app.
• Avoid Rush Hours on Roads: To avoid spending time saved on the flight in Manhattan traffic, get to the hydroport by subway or on foot if you are in the center.
• Group Flights: Chartering an entire plane for a group of 6–8 people sometimes works out cheaper per passenger than buying individual tickets during peak season.

What to Do in Case of Delay or Cancellation

Hydro-aviation depends heavily on weather (fog, strong wind, rough water on the river) and airspace restrictions (VIP movement, presidential visits).

• Stay Connected: Download the carrier's app and turn on notifications. Cancellation decisions are often made at the last moment.
• Plan "B": Most operators have established scenarios for non-flying weather. Often you will be offered alternative transport (a comfortable bus or private car) to your destination. Clarify these conditions in advance in the fare rules.
• Waiting: If the flight is delayed briefly, use the lounge — it is comfortable, has Wi-Fi and beverages, making the wait much more pleasant than in a standard terminal.