Blade

If you’re tired of traffic congestion or seeking a quicker commute, Uber is expanding its transportation options. The ride-sharing company will offer electric air taxis in select cities through a partnership with Joby.

Joby initially announced its partnership with Uber in September 2025, with plans to make Blade flights – utilizing helicopters and seaplanes – available through the app in 2026. This initiative introduces a quieter, zero-emissions air taxi option in key markets, following Joby’s acquisition of Blade’s passenger business in August 2025.

“We’re excited to introduce Uber customers to the magic of seamless urban air travel,” stated JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO of Joby. “Integrating Blade into the Uber app is the natural next step in our global partnership with Uber and will lay the foundation for the introduction of our quiet, zero-emissions aircraft in the years ahead. Together with Uber’s global platform and Blade’s proven network, we’re setting the stage for a new era of air travel worldwide.”

In 2024, Blade transported over 50,000 passengers across routes in the New York metropolitan area and Southern Europe, serving high-traffic destinations like Newark Liberty International Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport, Manhattan, and the Hamptons.

“Since Uber’s earliest days, we’ve believed in the power of advanced air mobility to deliver safe, quiet, and sustainable transportation to cities around the world,” said Andrew Macdonald, president and COO of Uber.

“By harnessing the scale of the Uber platform and partnering with Joby, the industry leader in advanced air mobility, we’re excited to bring our customers the next generation of travel.”

The collaboration between the two companies began in 2019. In 2021, Joby acquired Uber’s Elevate division, which helped establish the urban air mobility sector and develop tools for market selection, demand simulation, and multi-modal operations.

Whereas a specific launch date for the air taxi service hasn’t been announced, Joby’s electric air taxi is designed to carry four passengers and a pilot, reach speeds of up to 200 mph, and operate with an acoustic impact 100 times lower than that of a traditional helicopter. Passengers will be able to book these services directly through the Uber app.

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The Future of Urban Air Mobility

The integration of Blade flights into the Uber app represents a significant step towards realizing the vision of urban air mobility. This isn’t just about bypassing traffic; it’s about reshaping how we think about commuting and travel within and between cities.

Beyond Helicopters: The Electric Air Taxi Revolution

While the initial phase involves Blade’s helicopter services, the long-term goal is the deployment of Joby’s electric air taxis. These aircraft promise a more sustainable and quieter alternative to traditional helicopters, addressing concerns about noise pollution and environmental impact. The potential for zero-emission air travel is a key driver in this evolution.

Challenges and Opportunities

Several challenges remain before air taxis grow commonplace. Regulatory hurdles, infrastructure development (vertiports), and public acceptance are all critical factors. However, the potential benefits – reduced congestion, faster travel times, and economic growth – are substantial.

FAQ

• What is Blade? Blade offers helicopter and seaplane flights, primarily in the New York metropolitan area and Southern Europe.
• When will Uber air taxis be available? Blade flights are expected to be available through the Uber app in 2026, with Joby’s electric air taxis to follow.
• How rapid are Joby’s air taxis? Joby’s air taxis can reach speeds of up to 200 mph.
• Are Joby’s air taxis environmentally friendly? Yes, Joby’s air taxis are designed to be zero-emission and operate with a significantly reduced noise footprint.

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