Uber takes to the sky with Blade partnership

Group 1 - Uber is integrating Blade helicopter rides into its app through a partnership with Joby Aviation, expected to launch next year [1] - Joby Aviation recently completed a $125 million acquisition of Blade, which served over 50,000 passengers from 12 urban terminals last year [1] - The initiative is positioned as the next generation of travel, aiming to provide an alternative to traditional ground transportation [1] Group 2 - Joby's aircraft will accommodate four passengers and a pilot, with a flight speed of 200 mph and noise levels 100 times quieter than conventional helicopters [2] - The flying Uber service is anticipated to be both fast and quiet, potentially eliminating surge pricing associated with traditional ride-hailing services [2]