Discovery flight in New Jersey

Scenic flights over the Atlantic coast

Passengers fly over the Jersey Shore, the Sea Isle City Pier, and the marshes of Great Egg Harbor Bay, home to many seabirds. In clear weather, you can see Atlantic City in the distance, with its casinos and famous boardwalk. These flights are operated aboard small touring planes, often piloted by passionate instructors who comment on the landscapes and sites below. Packages range from 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the chosen route and weather conditions.

Skydiving: adrenaline above the Garden State

For thrill seekers, several skydiving centers in New Jersey offer tandem jumps and training programs. In Freehold, Cross Keys, or Sussex, jumps are made from more than 13,000 feet, offering breathtaking views of forests, valleys, and, farther south, the Atlantic coast. The Skydive Cross Keys site, near Williamstown, is particularly renowned for its proximity to Philadelphia and the diversity of landscapes visible during the flight. Skydivers enjoy stunning views of the Pinelands, a vast protected forest typical of New Jersey. For those who wish to go further, AFF training courses are available, allowing participants to learn to jump solo with two instructors. Each center has a USPA (United States Parachute Association) certified team ensuring safety and professional supervision.

Helicopter flights: between city and coastline

New Jersey is also a prime location for helicopter flights, especially around Newark, Hoboken, and Jersey City. These tours combine views of New Jersey with those of New York, located just a few miles away. Passengers fly along the Hudson River, admiring the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge from a new perspective. Farther south, calmer flights departing from Trenton or Atlantic City explore the coastline and natural parks. Private tours are especially popular among couples seeking a romantic experience at sunset. Aboard a Robinson R44 or Bell 206, flights last between 20 and 45 minutes, offering optimal comfort and unobstructed views of the northeastern landscapes.

Indoor skydiving in Paramus: flight without fear of heights

To experience the thrill of freefall without jumping from an airplane, indoor skydiving in Paramus, in northern New Jersey, is the ideal option. The iFLY Paramus center features a vertical wind tunnel where a powerful airflow recreates the sensation of a real jump. Open to participants as young as 3 years old, this activity suits both families and aviation enthusiasts. Certified instructors guide each session, adjusting wind speed according to the participant’s level. The 45-foot glass tunnel allows you to fly safely, supervised by an instructor who helps control your movements. This modern facility also attracts professional skydivers who come to train before outdoor jumps.

Introductory flight lessons in central New Jersey

For those who dream of taking the controls, several flying clubs in central New Jersey — notably in Princeton, Morristown, and Millville — offer introductory flight lessons. After a full briefing, participants take place aboard a light aircraft, often a Cessna 172, for a 45-minute flight. The flight instructor gradually lets you take the controls to perform simple maneuvers. The flight over the region allows you to admire the rolling hills of Somerset County, the farmland of Monmouth County, and, farther north, the wooded banks of the Delaware River. These introductory flights are the first step toward full pilot training and a great way to discover flying over a region with remarkably varied landscapes.

A rich and accessible aerial region

The discovery flight in New Jersey is open to everyone, from curious first-timers to aviation enthusiasts. The state’s diverse facilities — coastal airfields, skydiving centers, modern simulators, and helicopter tours — make it possible to explore New Jersey from every angle. Between the Atlantic Ocean, southern forests, and proximity to New York, New Jersey offers a rare diversity for flight lovers. Whether to admire the coastline, feel the adrenaline of a jump, or learn to fly, each activity promises a complete and unforgettable aerial experience.