“Traffic? E ‘di lumipad ka!” is exactly one of the most common and sarcastic statements you’ll hear among commuters and drivers stuck in traffic.
Despite being one of the fastest growing business hubs in Southeast Asia, Manila’s traffic situation is also one of the most challenging in the region.
But is flying really the solution to the already congested thoroughfares in Metro Manila? Apparently, Singapore-based helicopter ride-sharing startup Ascent thinks so.
Ascent recently launched its platform in the Philippines, which provides air mobility to passengers who can burn an extra couple of dozen grand for a helicopter ride.
Lionel Sinal-Sinelnikoff, Ascent founder and chief executive officer, said passengers can book flights through the company’s website to three major Central Business Districts in the country.
Ascent hopes to provide a solution that is highly relevant in the current times’ economic and productivity pitfalls caused by congested roads.
Through helicopter ride-sharing platform, the company aims to connect CBDs more easily and promote the country as an ideal destination to conduct business helped by urban air mobility, Sinelnikoff said.
The company also aims to expand its services in major cities in Visayas and Mindanao.
Here are the rates for the helicopter ride-sharing:
• NAIA – Clark: P25,900
• Makati – BGC: P6,900
• NAIA – Tagaytay: P21,900
