A New Helicopter Service is Coming to Maharashtra

This October, you might be able to go from Mumbai to Pune in 35 minutes&mdashwithout leg space problems or luggage battles, and a killer view of the skyline. No, we aren&rsquot taking you for a ride.

BLADE, an American company, is preparing to become a pioneer in the short-distance aviation segment in India. Their desi division, BLADE India, is launching three helicopter services between Pune, Mumbai and Shirdi in Maharashtra this month. Flying six days a week from Monday to Saturday, we hear the choppers will operate on a fixed schedule and will carry up to five passengers at a time. The helipads for each city are at Mahalaxmi Racecourse (Mumbai), Mundhwa Heliport (Pune) and Shirdi Heliport near the famous Shirdi Sai Baba Temple. Pricing and timing details are yet to be made public. 

You&rsquoll be able to book flights on a per-seat basis, or reserve the entire helicopter on a per-flight basis. Operations will be under DGCA licensed operators. BLADE&rsquos US helipads have slick lounges and complimentary drinks for fliers, and we&rsquore guessing those same perks are also in store for Indian fliers. Though the company&rsquos entry into the subcontinent has seen a few delays since last year, if all goes well with expansion, it&rsquos blissful waters ahead.

For a look at company policies and updates, contact BLADE India&rsquos Flier Relations team at 1800-102-5233, or visit their official website. You can also download their apps for Android and iOS. Private charter flights can be booked by contacting sales@flyblade.in.