This is what happens when your order a Bolt helicopter taxi

There are plenty of good transport options in London, but over the weekend people on TikTok started to notice an elite mode of travel seemed to have been soft-launched onto the scene. Bolt, a taxi service similar to Uber, is now offering “helicopter” rides for only a bit more than a standard cab journey.

People were absolutely baffled, wondering how the logistics would work.

@max_balegdeIs this real?!??? @bolt #fyp #uk #london♬ original sound – Max_Balegde

Some TikTokers even posted videos, apparently of Bolt Helicopters landing after they’d ordered them.

@tonyz.777Real or fake? U decide😬#bolthelicopter #ubercopter #london #ldn #bolt♬ WHOLE LOTTA MONEY – Bïa

But as it turns out, there’s a pretty wholesome explanation behind the whole thing.

It’s a charity appeal for the London Air Ambulance

Unfortunately, as much as this would be amazing, Bolt won’t send a helicopter to pick you up from your doorstep.

Bolt has teamed up with the London Air Ambulance and has created the “helicopter” function on its app to recognise the 32 years of service provided by the organisation.

The Air Ambulance option on the Bolt app is like the standard taxi or XL options except 50p from every journey will go to London’s Air Ambulance Charity.

The Air Ambulance provides rapid support for those who are injured or unwell and has treated over 42,000 patients.

Sam Raciti, Bolt’s UK regional manager told News Shopper: “Like other charities, LAA has faced a difficult 18 months — but the amazing paramedics and doctors have continued to serve London and save lives throughout, and we’re delighted to play our part in helping to keep the red helicopters flying”.

CEO of London’s Air Ambulance Charity Jonathan Jenkins said:  “We are extremely grateful to Bolt for their generous support of the charity, especially following the pandemic.

“This contribution will help us save more lives in London and will also help to raise awareness of London’s Air Ambulance Charity throughout the capital.

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