Uber has reportedly begun researching the development of small VTOL aircraft, which it could use to transport commuters above areas with dense traffic.
If you live in an area where your daily commute whittles away hours of your life, you’ve probably imagined jetting off and soaring above traffic and getting home in a matter of minutes. What was once the realm of science fiction could soon be closer to reality as Uber has reportedly begun researching the feasibility of using small VTOL aircraft as part of its operations.
VTOL – vertical take-off and landing – are frequently used in both military applications (think of the Harrier jet) or to transport cargo. Now, Uber’s head of products, Jeff Holden, has revealed that the company is actively researching the development of its own such vehicle.
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In an interview with Recode, Holden cited that the idea is to offer Uber customers “œas many options as possible to move around.” The move – if feasible – would be an attractive one as VTOL aircraft could both skip ground traffic below and further do not require a long runway to lift off the ground.
While it may be a while before we see VTOL aircraft dotted throughout the sky, the idea isn’t without precedent. Tesla CEO Elon Musk has cited that he has his own idea for a such an aircraft, while Uber has previously offered the ability to take a helicopter ride between destinations.
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What are your thoughts? Could you foresee yourself taking an Uber VTOL aircraft, or is the idea too far-fetched? Be sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Follow Bryan Smith on Twitter: @bryansmithSA
