It started out as a ride-sharing service. Then it evolved to include carpooling, and other services that are designed to help riders get from point A to point B safely and conveniently while helping decrease traffic. Now, Uber takes its ride-sharing service to new heights—literally—with uberAIR.
The uberAIR service has been expanded to include Los Angeles as the second US city to be serviced by the ever-growing network. This was announced at the Global Web Summit in Lisbon. With the selection of Los Angeles, uberAiR hopes to begin demonstration flights by the year 2020.
Beyond this, uberAIR aims to provide safe, hassle-free travel to commuters living in highly populated areas such as various key cities around the world. While this sounds like a familiar line, take note that uberAIR has one distinct advantage: it will be up in the air.
Yes, uberAIR will be using electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. As the name suggests, these aircraft are similar to helicopters in that they can easily take off and land vertically. The distinct advantage they have, however, is that they are quieter and more environment friendly. And with an estimated range of around 322kms, one need not worry too much about range.
While all this seems like a pipe dream for now, Uber will begin laying down the groundwork for uberAIR in Los Angeles. In fact, it has signed with Sandstone to build the various take-off and landing infrastructure necessary. Known as Skyport, these sites will be located in key strategic locations throughout the greater LA area.
While you may not necessarily be able to book an uberAIR just yet, check out what it would be like to get up in the air with uberAIR. And who knows? This could just be the way to go real soon.
