Uber users in New York City and parts of Southern Europe may soon be booking more than just cars. Starting in 2026, Blade Air Mobility helicopters will be available through the Uber app, thanks to a new partnership with Joby Aviation, the electric air taxi startup.
The move follows Joby’s $125 million acquisition of Blade’s passenger business last month. While Blade’s medical transport division remains separate, its helicopter services are being integrated into Joby’s growing network.
Routes haven’t been finalized, but the companies say the service will likely launch on high-demand airport connections. The helicopter rollout is being positioned as a stepping stone to bringing Joby’s electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to Uber’s platform in the coming years.
Joby is already preparing to debut its first commercial eVTOL service in Dubai in 2026, with U.S. markets to follow. Uber holds a 2.5% stake in Joby, and the two have been connected since Joby acquired Uber’s Elevate division in 2020.
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The helicopter revival comes at a time when Joby has managed to stay afloat, unlike rivals Volocopter and Lilium, which have shut down, or Hyundai’s Supernal, which has paused its aircraft program.
If successful, Uber could become the go-to app not just for rides on the road, but also in the sky.
