Uber to Add Helicopter and Seaplane Rides by 2026 Through Joby–Blade Deal
Uber users residing near New York City or Southern Europe will soon have a new travel option to pick from in 2026: helicopters.
Uber to Add Helicopter and Seaplane Rides by 2026 Through Joby–Blade Deal
Uber users could soon find helicopter and seaplane rides alongside their usual car and food delivery options. Starting in 2026, the ride-hailing giant plans to integrate Blade Air Mobility’s passenger services into its app, following electric air taxi company Joby Aviation’s acquisition of Blade’s consumer business. The deal, announced earlier this summer, is valued at up to $125 million and gives Joby immediate access to Blade’s established network of routes, terminals, and high-end clientele. Blade flew more than 50,000 passengers in 2024, primarily shuttling travelers between Manhattan and major New York airports, as well as select routes in Southern Europe. Under the agreement, Blade’s medical transport division will continue to operate separately as Strata Critical Medical, while Joby assumes full control of the passenger side. By piggybacking on Blade’s infrastructure, Joby gains a ready-made platform to accelerate its rollout of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircr…
About the author
He is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in consumer tech, economy, finance, business, money and shopping. Currently chasing a BSc degree in Accounting.
