Uber, Joby to Launch Blade Helicopter Taxis in App by 2026

Uber will begin offering Blade electric helicopter taxi rides through its app as soon as 2026, following Joby Aviation's $125 million acquisition of Blade's passenger business. Blade's air taxis can carry four passengers and a pilot at speeds up to 200 mph with noise levels 100 times lower than traditional helicopters, operating in areas including the New York metropolitan region and Southern Europe. Joby, which has partnered with Uber since 2019 and acquired Uber's Elevate division in 2020, plans to use Blade's infrastructure to accelerate its electric air taxi service launch in global cities such as Dubai, Los Angeles, the UK, and Japan. The integration into Uber's app aims to provide seamless urban air travel, marking a significant step toward zero-emission, quiet air mobility solutions. Both companies highlight the potential for these services to reduce traffic congestion and emissions, though regulatory approvals remain pending. U.S. President Donald Trump has encouraged regulators to expedite certification processes for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, supporting the development of this emerging transportation sector.