New Pilot Program to Evaluate Commuter Demand and eVTOL Readiness
Blade Air Mobility, Inc. (Nasdaq: BLDE) and Skyports Infrastructure have announced a partnership to expand Blade’s existing by-the-seat helicopter transfer service. The pilot program will connect the Downtown Manhattan Heliport with John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), offering a faster travel option for commuters and airport passengers.
Testing Urban Air Mobility for the Future
The program aims to assess commuter demand, customer experience, and ground operations at the heliport. This data will help streamline the introduction of Electric Vertical Aircraft (EVA or eVTOL) at the facility. These next-generation aircraft are expected to replace helicopters with a quieter, emission-free alternative.
Nathan Alexander, Vice President of Rotorcraft for Blade, emphasized the advantages of eVTOL technology. “EVA’s quiet and emission-free design will support the expansion of convenient landing zones while reducing commuter costs. From logistics, passenger experience, booking, ground crew, and even flight time, EVA services will be nearly identical to Blade’s current helicopter offerings, but using next-generation aircraft.”
Skyports’ Role in Infrastructure Development
Skyports recently secured an appointment from the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) to operate the Downtown Manhattan Heliport. The company is working to transform the facility into a hub for electric aircraft operations.
Addison Ferrell, Director of Infrastructure for Skyports, highlighted the importance of this partnership. “Skyports and Blade are committed to transforming the Downtown Manhattan Heliport into one of the leading Electric Aircraft vertiports in the world. This alliance with Blade will serve to meaningfully accelerate this common mission to unlock the skies for eVTOL flights.”
Service Details and Availability
The pilot program will launch in April 2025. Flights will operate on weekdays from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Passengers can purchase by-the-seat tickets starting at $195. Discounts are available for Blade Airport Pass and Commuter Pass holders, with fares starting at $95.
By working together, Blade and Skyports aim to advance urban air mobility in New York City. Their focus is on providing faster, more sustainable travel options in one of the busiest metropolitan areas in the world.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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