Uber Copter Coming to New York City in July

Uber is making its first steps into commercial operation of aerial ride-hailing, after years of promises.

1 minute read

June 8, 2019, 1:00 PM PDT

Shivani Vora reports that Uber is launching Uber Copter in New York City on July 9.

"The new service, booked through Uber’s app, will take passengers between Lower Manhattan and Kennedy International Airport, an eight-minute flight," according to Vora.

It's not quite the electric sky-taxis promised by Uber Air, the company's ongoing attempt to conquer the skies, but it's also far closer to fruition.

Uber Copter is also an exclusive, and expensive product. "Uber Copter will be available only to users who are Platinum and Diamond members — the top two tiers — of the company’s loyalty program, Uber Rewards," according to Vora. The dynamic pricing model for the trips will probably result in trips costing an average of $200 to $225.

According to a separate article by Katie Pyzyk, Uber officials are saying Uber Copter will "lay the foundation" for Uber Air vehicles. Pyzyk also describes Uber's airborne operations as a benefit only for the wealthy, and not a congestion or mobility solution for the average person.

Another article by John Surico goes a step further to argue that Uber Copter will make transit worse for New York City—even after setting aside noise and pollution effects of the new service.

FULL STORY: Uber Copter to Offer Flights From Lower Manhattan to J.F.K.

Friday, June 7, 2019 in The New York Times

Technology Transportation New York New York City Uber Air Uber Copter Ride-Hailing Companies Transportation Network Companies Mobility Congestions] JFK International Airport View More

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.