Flying Between Two Public US Airports: Joby Aviation Completes First Test Flight
The electric air taxi industry took another major step forward as Joby Aviation announced the successful completion of its first test flight between two public airports in California. With the potential to transform commuting, this flight marks a significant milestone for the industry in its move towards commercial service.
The Flight Details
The piloted test flight, conducted by Joby’s electric aircraft, took approximately 12 minutes to fly from Marina to Monterey, two public airports located 11½ miles apart. During the flight, the aircraft spent five minutes in a holding pattern to allow an incoming airliner to land at Monterey. This flight showcased some of the key capabilities of the electric vertical-takeoff and landing vehicle (eVTOL), including its six tilting propellers.
First eVTOL Flight Between Public Airports in the US
While Joby’s flight was the first eVTOL flight between two public airports in the US, British firm Vertical Aerospace claimed the world’s first flight between two public airports in June, covering a distance of 17 miles from a small English airport to an air force base.
The Potential for Transformative Commuting
eVTOL companies are aiming to revolutionize commuting, with plans for the first commercial services to operate between airports and downtown cities. Joby claims that its eVTOL can fly from downtown New York City to JFK Airport in just seven minutes, compared to a 49-minute car journey. The company also conducted an exhibition flight in the city in 2023, becoming the first eVTOL to fly in New York.
Advantages of Electric-Powered Aircraft
Aside from being a sustainable option, electric-powered aircraft also offer a quieter flying experience compared to helicopters, which are heavily regulated due to their noise. However, eVTOLs may require additional landing infrastructure and use more energy during vertical takeoff, which could limit passenger capacity due to battery constraints.
Partnerships and Future Plans
Joby has already partnered with Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic to help launch air taxi services. Rival company Archer has also received a $1. 5 billion order from United Airlines. Both companies plan to initially operate in the United Arab Emirates, with Archer aiming for a launch in Abu Dhabi later this year and Joby targeting a launch in Dubai in early 2026.
Certification and Expansion Plans
Joby plans to begin flight testing with Federal Aviation Administration pilots in early 2022 as it works towards certification in the US. The company’s first operating cities are expected to be Los Angeles and New York. While prices have not yet been announced, industry players have compared the cost of one seat to a premium Uber ride.
In Conclusion
The successful test flight between two public airports by Joby Aviation marks a significant milestone for the electric air taxi industry, highlighting its potential to transform the way we commute.