Uber will launch Blade helicopter rides next year through expanded Joby partnership

Core Insights - Uber is set to launch helicopter rides through its app in partnership with Joby Aviation by 2026, marking a new venture into air transportation [1][4] - Joby Aviation recently completed a $125 million acquisition of Blade, which chartered over 50,000 passengers last year from 12 urban terminals [2][3] - The integration of Blade into the Uber app is seen as a significant step in their partnership, aiming to introduce quiet, zero-emissions aircraft in the future [3] Company Developments - Joby Aviation's acquisition of Blade does not include its medical organ transplant division, focusing instead on air transportation [2] - Uber has a long-standing interest in air transportation, having first partnered with Joby in 2019 and sold its Elevate flying taxi division to Joby in 2020 [3] - Uber's leadership believes this partnership will lead to a "next generation of travel," with more details on booking expected closer to the launch date [4] Industry Context - The air taxi market is competitive, with various companies seeking regulatory approval from the Federal Aviation Administration to bring their solutions to market [5] - Proponents of air taxi technology argue it can alleviate traffic congestion and reduce emissions, highlighting its potential benefits for urban transportation [5]