Traveling from D.C. to downtown Manhattan just got easier—and faster—thanks to Tailwind Air’s 75- to 85-minute seaplane jaunts to the Big Apple. Flights depart from Jet Aviation near Dulles International Airport and splash down near New York Skyport, Manhattan’s dedicated seaplane base, located at the eastern end of 23rd Street along the East River, often with spectacular skyline views upon final approach.
Launched in 2014, Tailwind maintains a fleet of eight-seater turboprop Cessna Grand Caravans equipped with navigation, communication and safety features comparable to commercial aircraft. All planes are capable of landing on water or land, and are flown with two pilots.
While the carrier’s fleet is new (most of the planes are less than five years old), seaplane travel is not. The Manhattan Skyport opened in 1936 and has been hosting seaplane travel for decades. Tailwind also offers routes to other coastal destinations in New York and New England, including Boston, East Hampton, Montauk and Provincetown.
No TSA check-in required. Check-in cutoff is 10 minutes prior to departure. Service resumes March 21, 2023, and is available Sunday through Friday, with flights up to three times daily. Rates begin at $395. See website for luggage and parking details. Discounted prepaid commuter books of 10, 20 and 50 tickets available.
Tailwind Air, 212-328-9145