Can You Order a Helicopter on Uber?
As the world becomes increasingly digital, ride-hailing companies like Uber have revolutionized the way we travel. From humble beginnings as a taxi service, Uber has expanded its services to include ride-sharing, carpooling, and even food delivery. But one question that often arises is: Can You Order a Helicopter on Uber?
The Answer: Not Yet
The short answer is no, you cannot order a helicopter on Uber… yet. While Uber has experimented with UberCopter, a helicopter service in select cities, it is not available to the general public. UberCopter is a premium service that allows users to travel by helicopter to select destinations, but it is limited to a specific route and requires a separate booking.
History of Uber’s Helicopter Services
In 2016, Uber launched UberChopper, a helicopter service in New York City that aimed to reduce traffic congestion. The service allowed users to book a helicopter ride from Manhattan to the John F. Kennedy International Airport. However, the service was met with mixed reviews, and Uber eventually discontinued it in 2018.
In 2019, Uber relaunched its helicopter service, this time called UberCopter, in Newark, New Jersey, allowing users to travel to Manhattan’s West Side Heliport. The service uses a fleet of Sikorsky S-92 helicopters, which can accommodate up to 5 passengers.
Why Helicopters Are Not a Common Sight on Uber
So, why can’t you order a helicopter on Uber? There are several reasons:
• Safety: Helicopters are much more complex and regulated than cars, requiring stricter safety protocols and more trained pilots.
• Infrastructure: Helicopters require specific infrastructure, such as helipads and restricted airspace, which are not as common as traditional taxi stands or airports.
• Cost: Helicopters are much more expensive to operate and maintain than cars, making them less accessible to the general public.
• Regulations: Helicopter services are subject to strict regulations, including those related to safety, noise pollution, and environmental impact.
When Will You Be Able to Order a Helicopter on Uber?
While UberCopter is not available to the general public, Uber continues to experiment with helicopter services. In 2020, Uber partnered with Joby Aviation, a startup that is developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, to launch a new on-demand air taxi service. This service is expected to debut in the 2025.
Conclusion
While you can’t currently order a helicopter on Uber, the company is working towards expanding its services to include more premium and unconventional modes of transportation. With the growing demand for faster and more efficient travel, it’s likely that we’ll see more helicopter services become available in the future. In the meantime, you can continue to use Uber’s traditional services to get where you need to go, but for now, helicopter travel remains a luxury only available to a select few.
