Flying Taxis Take Off: Uber & Joby in Australia

0:00This is Adelaide News Today, powered by AI and presented by The Daily News Now. Flying taxis are on the verge of becoming real, and Australia could soon see them in action. Uber and partner, Joby Aviation, just showed off their electric air taxi in a public test in the Dubai Desert. The plan is to launch passenger services there in 2026, with rides bookable right in the Uber app. These flights will start between four sky ports in Dubai, then expand to New York, Los Angeles, cities in the UK, and Japan. An hour-long drive could shrink to just 11 minutes in the air, at speeds up to 320 kilometers per hour. The price should match in Uber Black Ride, and the vehicles are much quieter than helicopters. Uber leaders are excited about this shift to the skies, especially as cities grow more crowded. They see it as a smart way to cut travel time to airports or offices. Earlier, Uber I'd Melbourne for early launches over five years ago, but backed out. Now, with better technology, they're reviving those ambitions through Joby.

1:04The aircraft has six propellers and four batteries for safety, and it's already in certification in the UAE and the US. Joby is also chatting with Australia's air safety regulator about approval. Officials hint that flying taxis could arrive in time for the Brisbane Olympic Games, especially with big events drawing global eyes. This episode is brought to you in partnership with our sponsor. A pillow that plays your sound quietly, comfortably, effortlessly, built for nighttime listening, S-O-L-I, solelypillow.com.