Uber’s (NYSE:UBER) Elevate Division Enters Partnership With GE Aviation Digital Group On Aerial Ride-Sharing Program

Uber Technologies Inc.’s (NYSE:UBER) Elevate division and GE Aviation’s Digital Group have announced a partnership aimed at transforming the globe through large scale aerial ridesharing as the aviation sector changes post the pandemic.

Partnership on eVTOL vehicles

The companies partner to come up with a flight data monitoring program supporting electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles on the ridesharing giant’s platform. The partnership will, at first, focus on developing requirements for the program. Currently, several operators employ GE flight data and monitoring services across the globe. The Uber Air service’s initial launch is expected in 2023 using VTOL aircraft in Los Angeles and Dallas.

Andrew Coleman, the General Manager of GE Aviation Digital Group, said that the partnership will help them in expanding their digital innovation with the travel industry evolving. Coleman added that they can deliver their digital experience across the travel industry by helping travelers reach their destinations efficiently and safely.

Uber Elevate’s head of aviation safety John Illson said that safety is the division’s core value. He said that they are implementing a safety management system voluntarily as well as developing programs that have resulted in considerable safety benefits for the aviation sector.

Flight data monitoring helping reduce flight accidents

Flight data monitoring, which involves reviewing and analysis of recorded data, is important for airlines and operators. Those that have adopted FDM are well-positioned in identifying and eliminating possible safety hazards during flight. Since its introduction almost two decades ago, FDM has helped reduce accident and incident rates for operators that have adopted them. #

According to the companies, the industry experience and GE Aviation’s FDM program were vital in making the partnership ideal for Uber Elevate. Bob Whetsell, the safety program director of GE Aviation Digital Group, said that the Uber Elevate eVTOL program is a huge milestone in the aviation sector. He said that eVTOL aircraft creates a ridesharing ecosystem that focuses on energy efficiency, safety, and noise minimization.