Escape Traffic Jams with Uber’s New Helicopter and Seaplane Bookings
Planning to catch a flight but dreading the gridlocked traffic on the way to the airport? Well, worry no more because soon, you can book a helicopter or seaplane ride through Uber’s app. According to Travel + Leisure, the rideshare giant is set to integrate Blade helicopter and seaplane bookings into their platform, starting with New York. This will give travelers the convenience of reserving high-end flights between city centers and major airports with just a few taps.

Blade, a popular transportation service, currently operates routes in southern Europe and the New York area. They offer shuttle services to destinations like the Hamptons and major airports such as JFK and Newark Liberty. In Europe, travelers can even take a Blade ride from Nice to Cannes or Monaco, enjoying breathtaking aerial views instead of being stuck in congested highways.

This move comes after Blade’s recent acquisition by Joby Aviation, an electric air-taxi pioneer working with Delta Air Lines to eventually offer rideshare-style electric aircraft. With this partnership, Uber aims to provide a more seamless travel experience for its customers.

Now, let’s talk about the cost. According to T + L, a one-way helicopter ride to the airport will start at $195 per person, while groups of up to eight can charter an entire chopper for around $2,000. This may seem like a hefty price, but the time savings are worth it. A car trip from Manhattan to JFK can take over an hour, while a Blade helicopter ride only takes about five minutes. After landing, a Blade vehicle will take passengers straight to their terminal, saving valuable time.

Although Uber has not revealed an exact launch date for this new booking feature, they have stated that it won’t be rolled out before 2026. This gives travelers a couple of years to plan their first traffic-free airport dash.

In conclusion, with Uber’s integration of Blade helicopter and seaplane bookings, travelers can now escape the hassle of traffic and enjoy a quick, high-end flight to their destination. This partnership also sets the stage for the future of air transportation, with the possibility of rideshare-style electric aircraft becoming a reality. So, next time you’re stuck in traffic, remember that soon, you can just open the Uber app and take to the skies.