Uber Company has launched its premium helicopter service in New York City with the promise of an 8-minute flight to nearby JF. Kennedy Airport from downtown Manhattan, New York.
This launch comes at a time when the company could use some flashy product launches and positive headlines as it faces a daunting list of problems, including record losses, multiple rounds of layoffs, continued scrutiny over passenger safety, and a stock price that is hovering near an all-time low.
CNN reported the helicopter services which promised an 8-minute flight to JF. Kennedy Airport resulted in an extra 47 minutes of travel.
CNN also stated that the $250 one way trip, had a higher cost compared to using the Uber X ride service which could only cost about $61 to JF.Kennedy.
As Uber expands its fleet of cars to scooters, bikes and now helicopters, it envisions replacing helicopter trips with autonomous electric flying cars to make transportation faster and safer.
The company is expected to launch its first set of electric aircraft in Dallas, Los Angeles, and Melbourne, Australia, in 2023.
[Source:CNN]
