It travels a distance of 3,140 feet at a speed of up to 17 miles per hour in less than three (3) minutes. It rises to a maximum height of 230 feet and can carry a maximum of 109 passengers plus an attendant per cabin. The system annually transports more than two million passengers.

The Roosevelt Island Tramway provides one of the most scenic and efficient commutes in New York City, with the actual air travel taking only 3 to 4 minutes. The tram travels a distance of 3,140 feet (960 meters) while suspended as high as 250 feet above the East River. Connecting 59th Street and Second Avenue in Manhattan to the heart of Roosevelt Island, the tram operates on a high-frequency schedule, typically departing every 7.5 to 15 minutes depending on the time of day. In 2026, the fare remains integrated with the NYC subway system (currently $2.90–$3.00), and you can use OMNY or a MetroCard to board. Because the system utilizes two independent cabins that can run simultaneously, it has a capacity of about 1,500 people per hour. For tourists, the short duration is actually a highlight; the rapid ascent provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the Queensboro Bridge, the United Nations headquarters, and the Midtown skyline. It is widely considered one of the best "value-for-money" experiences in New York, offering a thrilling 4-minute ride that functions as both a vital transit link and a world-class observation deck.