Joby Aviation Delivers First Electric Air Taxi to U.S. Air Force

In a significant milestone for advanced air mobility, the U.S. Air Force has received its inaugural electric passenger aircraft capable of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL). Joby Aviation, a California-based air taxi startup, successfully delivered the aircraft to Edwards Air Force Base in Southern California on September 25th.

The aircraft, part of Joby’s S4 model, is a five-seat electric VTOL that boasts impressive capabilities. With a maximum speed of 200 miles per hour and a range of 150 miles on a single charge, it is designed to function as an air taxi, shuttling passengers and cargo between urban and suburban areas.

This delivery is a result of Joby’s $131 million contract with the Air Force’s AFWERX program, aimed at expediting the development and adoption of innovative military technologies. As part of this contract, a second electric VTOL aircraft is scheduled for delivery in early 2024.

The Air Force intends to employ these aircraft for various logistics missions, including cargo and passenger transport. Both Joby and Air Force personnel will operate these aircraft. Additionally, NASA will utilize them for research purposes, exploring how electric VTOLs can integrate into the national airspace system, benefiting the broader air taxi industry.

Joby Aviation stands as a prominent player in the electric VTOL sector, having secured over $800 million in funding and acquiring Uber’s flying car division. The company’s plan includes the launch of its commercial air taxi service in 2024, pending certification from the Federal Aviation Administration.

The delivery of the first electric passenger aircraft to the U.S. Air Force marks a historic moment for Joby Aviation and the entire electric VTOL industry. It underscores the potential of these vehicles to revolutionize the future of transportation and mobility.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com, aviationtoday.com, aerotime.aero