- Joby helicopters will appear on Uber app in 2026 for NYC & Southern Europe.
- Blade acquisition strengthens Joby’s urban air mobility reach.
- Joby leads the eVTOL market while competitors struggle.
Uber riders near New York City and Southern Europe could see a futuristic travel option in 2026: helicopters. Electric air taxi leader Joby Aviation announced Wednesday that Blade Air Mobility helicopters will be bookable through the Uber app starting “as soon as next year.” While exact locations are not yet confirmed, the service will likely cover the most popular routes, including trips to and from airports.
Joby’s Strategic Moves in Urban Air Mobility
This announcement follows Joby’s acquisition of Blade’s passenger business last month for up to $125 million, excluding Blade’s medical division that specializes in transporting live organs. The deal strengthens Joby’s presence in the air mobility market and sets the stage for Uber users to access aerial transport.
Joby is also working toward deploying its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxis through Uber, though that milestone is still a few years away. The startup aims to launch its first commercial eVTOL service in Dubai in 2026, with U.S. markets following thereafter.
Uber, Blade, and Joby: A History of Collaboration
Uber and Blade have collaborated before, with Blade helicopters previously available for limited promotional flights on the Uber platform. Joby’s acquisition of Uber’s “Elevate” air taxi division in 2020 accelerated its development of eVTOL vehicles, helping the company rise above other startups in a competitive market. Joby went public in 2021 via a SPAC merger and has since raised hundreds of millions from investors including Toyota. Uber currently holds a 2.5% stake in Joby, cementing their ongoing partnership.
The Competitive Landscape
While Joby continues to expand, other eVTOL competitors have struggled. Germany’s Volocopter and Lilium have exited the market, and Hyundai-owned Supernal recently paused its aircraft program. Joby’s survival and partnerships highlight its lead in the emerging urban air mobility sector.
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With Joby helicopters arriving on Uber next year, air travel in cities like New York and parts of Southern Europe may soon become as simple as hailing a ride. As eVTOL technology matures, Uber users could experience a new era of urban transportation—one that takes to the skies.
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