Uber to Add Blade Helicopters

Helicopter Travel Coming to Uber Users

Individuals utilizing Uber in the vicinity of New York City or regions of Southern Europe could soon benefit from an additional transportation choice: helicopter service, anticipated to become available in 2026.

Joby Aviation, an electric air taxi developer, revealed on Wednesday that helicopters operated by Blade Air Mobility will be integrated into the Uber application “as early as next year.”

Initial Availability and Expansion

While Joby has not specified the initial locations for Blade helicopter access, the company communicated to TechCrunch that services will likely be introduced on high-demand routes, such as those connecting to and from airports.

This announcement follows Joby’s recent acquisition of Blade’s passenger transport business for a potential sum of $125 million. It’s important to note that Blade’s organ transplant division continues to operate independently.

A Stepping Stone to Air Taxis

Uber and Joby are presenting this development as a precursor to the eventual integration of Joby’s own air taxis into the ride-hailing network.

However, the full launch of Joby’s air taxi service remains some time in the future. The company intends to initiate its first commercial operations in Dubai in 2026, with further expansion planned for other markets, including locations within the United States.

Existing Partnerships and Acquisitions

The three companies involved in this announcement already share established relationships.

Joby completed the acquisition of Blade last month, and Blade helicopters have previously been featured on the Uber platform, albeit through limited-time promotional offers.

Furthermore, Joby acquired Uber’s “Elevate” air taxi division in 2020, providing a significant impetus to the startup’s efforts to develop electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles.

Joby's Position in the eVTOL Market

This acquisition propelled Joby to a leading position within the competitive eVTOL startup landscape.

The company became publicly traded through a merger with a special purpose acquisition company in 2021 and has since secured substantial funding, including investment from major corporations like Toyota.

Currently, Uber maintains approximately a 2.5% ownership stake in Joby.

Challenges for Competitors

While Joby has demonstrated resilience, not all companies in the eVTOL sector have fared as well.

Several competitors, including Germany’s Volocopter and Lilium, have ceased operations, and Hyundai’s Supernal is currently facing challenges, having recently suspended its aircraft development program.