Joby Aviation, a leading electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft manufacturer, has achieved a significant milestone in its pursuit of transforming air travel.
Recently, the company announced receiving a Special Airworthiness Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for its first production prototype aircraft.
This accomplishment sets the stage for Joby to commence flight testing, bringing us closer to the realization of electric air taxis.
Joby Receives Permit to Fly First Manufactured Aircraft
This achievement underscores Joby's years of cutting-edge technology research, development, and investment. With the FAA's approval, Joby is now authorized to begin flight testing its production prototype.
The production prototype eVTOL aircraft is anticipated to be the pioneering model delivered to a customer, marking a groundbreaking achievement for the industry.
In 2024, Joby's aircraft will be stationed at Edwards Air Force Base in California as part of the company's Agility Prime contract with the U.S. Air Force, valued at up to $131 million.
This collaboration highlights Joby's technological leadership and the potential for its eVTOLs to support various logistics applications.
Joby's progress is rooted in extensive experience, having flown full-size aircraft since 2017. The pre-production prototype aircraft alone has covered over 30,000 miles in flights since 2019.
What's Next?
With the Special Airworthiness Certificate secured, Joby is well on its way to obtaining full FAA certification, a critical step towards commercial passenger operations.
The certification process involves thorough evaluations of the aircraft's design, components, and adherence to airworthiness and noise standards.
Joby has already advanced through three of the five stages necessary for an FAA-type certification, demonstrating significant progress in meeting regulatory requirements.
Joby's aspirations extend beyond the initial flight testing phase. The company aims to launch commercial passenger operations in 2025, offering a seamless and environmentally friendly travel experience.
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Joby also recently partnered with Delta Air Lines to provide sustainable transportation solutions for Delta customers traveling to and from airports. This collaboration underscores the shared commitment to creating a greener future of travel.
Partnership With Toyota
TechCrunch notes that Joby's deepening relationship with Toyota, its largest external shareholder, has played a vital role in its advancements. Toyota has invested around $400 million in the company and contributed manufacturing and engineering expertise.
This collaboration enabled Joby to establish a pilot production line in Marina, California, where the first eVTOL aircraft was manufactured. Toyota's involvement and supply of powertrain and actuation components further underscore the synergy between the two companies.
The company plans to construct a phase one manufacturing facility to accommodate higher production volumes. While specific details regarding the facility's location and timeline remain undisclosed, collaborating with Toyota will undoubtedly be instrumental in this expansion.
Excitingly, Tetsuo "Ted" Ogawa, President and CEO of Toyota Motor North America, will join Joby's Board of Directors on July 1, 2023. Ogawa's extensive experience and expertise in leading Toyota's operations in North America will provide valuable insights for Joby's strategic decision-making processes.
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