Uber to Launch Helicopter Services Through Partnership with Joby Aviation

Uber is expanding its ride-sharing services to include air travel. The company announced a partnership with Joby Aviation, a manufacturer of electric air taxis, to integrate helicopter services into its platform. The service is expected to launch as early as next year.

This collaboration follows Joby's acquisition of Blade Air Mobility, a company that provides helicopter and seaplane transportation. The deal was valued at $125 million.

Once the service is integrated, users will be able to book flights directly through the Uber app in major cities worldwide. While specific details on routes and pricing are still being finalized, airport connections are expected to be a key focus, as they represent a high-value service for customers.

Blade currently offers flights between Manhattan and major airports in the New York area. Last year, the company transported 50,000 passengers in the New York metropolitan area and Southern Europe.

Joby's founder and CEO stated that integrating Blade into the Uber app is a logical progression of their partnership and will pave the way for the introduction of their quiet, zero-emissions aircraft in the future. Blade currently utilizes jet turbine-powered helicopters but plans to transition to all-electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

Uber and Joby's partnership began in 2019 when Joby acquired Uber's Elevate division, which is focused on developing an aerial ride-sharing service using eVTOL vehicles.