NYC vs London/Paris
( My comments are based upon the limited exposure to the Paris and London heli-route structure and procedures obtained during a number of Paris and Farnborough Airshow demo flying trips. Certainly, especially during the Paris Airshow weeks, the helicopter traffic in and around Paris is tremendous. )
London and Paris have taken a positive control ( meaning a mode C transponder ) approach to the subject of helicopter operations within a busy city center area. My experience is that they have been efficient and courteous, they DO insist upon following their rules, and all in all it was easy to operate within their system.
Perhaps it is appropriate to apply this approach to both the helo and the GA fixed wing community in the NYC area.
Thanks,
John Dixson