Results for: joby aviation
Joby Aviation, Uber Air Partner to Launch Air Taxi Service by 2023
Joby is the first company to commit to Uber’s 2023 launch of its air taxi service. Rideshare group Uber and electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft developer Joby Aviation have announced a partnership to launch urban air-taxi services in selected locations from 2023. California-based Joby Aviation has become the first of seven partner companies in Uber’s Elevate urban air...

Joby Aviation, Uber Air Partner to Launch Air Taxi Service by 2023

Joby is the first company to commit to Uber’s 2023 launch of its air taxi service.
Rideshare group Uber and electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft developer Joby Aviation have announced a partnership to launch urban air-taxi services in selected locations from 2023. California-based Joby Aviation has become the first of seven partner companies in Uber’s Elevate urban air mobility initiative to commit to a timetable for launching operations. The other companies are Bell, Boeing subsidiary Aurora Flight Sciences, Embraer, Pipistrel, Karem Aircraft, and Jaunt Air Mobility. Uber has named Dallas, Los Angeles, and Melbourne as prospective launch cities, but the logistics of deploying its air taxi fleet remain underdeveloped.
Related: Uber Provides Details on its Air Pilot Program in Melbourne
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A mockup of Joby Aviation’s S4 eVTOL aircraft prototype.
Joby is developing a four-seat eVTOL aircraft called the S4 and appears to have plans for a larger S5 model. The covert aircraft development team has mentioned a complete full-scale prototype of the S4, but otherwise has kept plans for certification and manufacturing expansion under wraps. The few publicized renderings show a plane-drone hybrid with 12 rotors and room in the cabin for four passengers, though a spokesperson previously cautioned that what Joby is working on now is “entirely new.” The company has yet to provide any recent photographs or images of its prototype aircraft; however, all public information about Joby’s developments are can be found in the TransportUP Hangar.
Joby is the brainchild of inventor JoeBen Bevirt, who started the company in 2009. The company operated in relative obscurity until 2018, when Joby announced it had raised a surprising $100 million from a variety of investors, including the venture capital arms of Intel, Toyota, and JetBlue. The money helped finance development of the company’s air taxi prototype, which has been conducting test flights at Joby’s private airfield in Northern California.
JoeBen Bevirt had the following to say about the partnership:
We’re excited to partner with Uber. By bringing our next-generation aircraft and urban flight operations to Uber’s on-demand ground mobility network, we aim to get people to their destinations five-times faster than driving, reduce urban congestion and accelerate the shift to sustainable modes of transit.

Photo // Joby Aviation
Why it’s important: While Uber has performed considerable research and development on its own eVTOL prototype for the future air taxi service, it will ultimately rely on the consistent manufacturing technologies of a specialized airframer to provide and maintain vehicles. The demands of operating a transportation service are far greater than would allow for a single company to simultaneously develop its own aviation technologies. Therefore, Joby Aviation is slated to fill this important role, and has committed to support the aggressive timetable of a 2023 launch.
Source // AINOnline; The Verge
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Joby Aviation
Quick SummaryJoby Aviation is a Santa Cruz, CA based company developing the Joby S4 eVTOL. The S4 was kept predominantly under wraps from the public during the design phase, but in December of 2020, the company announced Military Airworthiness Certification for the S4 and simultaneously the company's acquisition of the Uber Elevate project. Joby's team is extremely experienced and has...

Joby Aviation

Quick Summary
Joby Aviation is a Santa Cruz, CA based company developing the Joby S4 eVTOL. The S4 was kept predominantly under wraps from the public during the design phase, but in December of 2020, the company announced Military Airworthiness Certification for the S4 and simultaneously the company's acquisition of the Uber Elevate project. Joby's team is extremely experienced and has executed on numerous projects in the past that demanded a high degree of technical acuity, and the company is now one of the most well-funded eVTOL developers in the world. Notably, Joby has received its Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate from the FAA, and has begun forming infrastructure partnerships around the U.S to begin commercial operations.
Stage of Development
Preliminary Design
Technical Details
Aircraft Type: Winged VTOL
Powerplant: Distributed Electric Propulsion (DEP) System powered by lithium-nickel-cobalt-manganese-oxide batteries
Range: 150 miles
Top Speed: 200 mph
Propeller Configuration: Four (4) propellers tilt vertically including its entire motor nacelle, and two (2) of the propellers tilt vertically with a linkage mechanism
Passenger/Payload Capacity: 1 pilot and 4 passengers
Autonomy Level: Piloted
Dimensions: 35 ft wingspan, 24 ft length
Other Information:
- Safety assurance in excess of CS-23 cert requirements
- Unified flight control – extremely simple vehicle operations (SVO)
- 100 times quieter than a helicopter
- Weight: 4,000 lb
- Windows: Large windows for spectacular views for the passengers
- Fuselage: Composite
- Landing gear: Tricycle wheeled retractable landing gear.
- First flight: On February 1st, 2018, a prototype executed a 15 minute, 15 mile loop which included a piloted vertical takeoff
Our Take on Joby
Joby's small media presence seems to be by design - Joby's team has been working with maximum intensity on bringing the project to fruition and testing their full scale S4 prototype. The company has recently closed large funding rounds - which included investors such as Toyota, JetBlue Baillie Gifford - and is demonstrating strong momentum as it stands up its new manufacturing facility in California. Once the facility is operational, it's likely we will be seeing substantially more news from Joby as it begins testing and certifying vehicles.
References
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September 25, 2023Joby Aviation Hosts $100 Million Dollar Funding Round
26 Feb 2018 || 1 min read Startup Air-Taxi company Joby Aviation has raised $100 million in funding from a number of investors including Toyota, JetBlue, and Intel during their latest Seed B fundraising round. This effort brings Joby to $130 million in total funding for their air-taxi project, which intends to fly 5 passengers as far as 150 miles...

Joby Aviation Hosts $100 Million Dollar Funding Round

26 Feb 2018 || 1 min read
Startup Air-Taxi company Joby Aviation has raised $100 million in funding from a number of investors including Toyota, JetBlue, and Intel during their latest Seed B fundraising round. This effort brings Joby to $130 million in total funding for their air-taxi project, which intends to fly 5 passengers as far as 150 miles on a single charge of their eVTOL, all while maintaining “ultra-quiet” noise levels. To date, Joby has kept many of its designs concealed from the public, and claims that their vehicle will be “absolutely all new”.
Related Links:
- Flying Magazine Article: https://www.flyingmag.com/air-taxi-startup-joby-aviation-raises-100-million
VoltAero Achieves Milestone Flight with Sustainable Aviation Fuel
VoltAero has achieved a significant milestone by conducting a flight using its proprietary electric-hybrid powertrain, fueled entirely by sustainable bioethanol from TotalEnergies. The landmark event took place at VoltAero’s development facility in Royan, France, and represents a giant stride towards greener and more sustainable aviation. The successful flight test utilized VoltAero’s Cassio S testbed airplane, serving as a crucial validation...

VoltAero Achieves Milestone Flight with Sustainable Aviation Fuel


VoltAero has achieved a significant milestone by conducting a flight using its proprietary electric-hybrid powertrain, fueled entirely by sustainable bioethanol from TotalEnergies. The landmark event took place at VoltAero’s development facility in Royan, France, and represents a giant stride towards greener and more sustainable aviation.
The successful flight test utilized VoltAero’s Cassio S testbed airplane, serving as a crucial validation step for both the electric-hybrid powertrain and the use of sustainable fuels. This accomplishment plays a pivotal role in de-risking the airworthiness certification process for forthcoming production models within the Cassio aircraft family.
Jean Botti, CEO and Chief Technology Officer of VoltAero noted that “based on initial results, we calculated a truly impressive CO2 reduction of approximately 80 percent while operating the Cassio powertrain in its electric-hybrid mode and with the internal combustion engine fueled by TotalEnergies’ Excellium Racing 100.” This development highlights the potential of Cassio aircraft to contribute significantly to the aviation industry’s decarbonization goals by replacing conventional Avgas 100 high-octane fuel.
The collaboration between VoltAero and TotalEnergies reflects a step toward the broader adoption of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) in general aviation. Excellium Racing 100, derived from winemaking waste, has demonstrated its environmental benefits in automobile competitions and features a 65% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to its fossil fuel counterparts over its life cycle.
Joël Navaron, President of TotalEnergies Aviation, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting aviation’s decarbonization objectives. TotalEnergies has initiated various actions, including the installation of electric charging stations for general aviation aircraft and a pilot program aimed at offering SP98-type fuel for compatible aircraft.
The Cassio family of aircraft, integrated with VoltAero’s patented electric-hybrid propulsion system, promises to revolutionize regional commercial operations, air taxi services, private ownership, and utility applications like cargo transport and medical evacuation (Medevac). With its unique hybrid propulsion system, Cassio delivers higher performance and significantly reduced operational costs.
Why it’s important: VoltAero’s latest achievement is desired by those in aerospace to become a more common occurrence in the next chapter of aviation, taking aerial mobility one step closer to more environmentally friendly outcomes. While the current supply of sustainable aviation fuel does not yet support full deployment of flights using SAF, compatibility with sustainable aviation fuels is crucial for future regional mobility aircraft designs.
Joby to Build eVTOL Manufacturing Facility in Dayton, Ohio
Joby has announced it plans to locate its first scaled aircraft production facility in Dayton, Ohio, the birthplace of aviation. Joby plans to build a facility capable of delivering up to 500 aircraft per year at the Dayton International Airport, supporting up to 2,000 jobs. The 140-acre site it has selected has the potential to support significant further growth over...

Joby to Build eVTOL Manufacturing Facility in Dayton, Ohio

Joby has announced it plans to locate its first scaled aircraft production facility in Dayton, Ohio, the birthplace of aviation.

Joby plans to build a facility capable of delivering up to 500 aircraft per year at the Dayton International Airport, supporting up to 2,000 jobs. The 140-acre site it has selected has the potential to support significant further growth over time, providing enough land to build up to two million square feet of manufacturing space. Construction of the scaled Ohio facility is expected to start in 2024 and it is expected to come online in 2025. Joby plans to use existing nearby buildings to begin near-term operations.
The State of Ohio, JobsOhio and local political subdivisions have offered incentives and benefits of up to $325 million to support the development of the facility, while Joby plans to invest up to $500 million as it scales operations at the site. Joby is also announcing today that it has been invited by the U.S. Department of Energy to submit a Part II Application for financing under the Title XVII Loan Guarantee Program, which provides access to low-interest loans for clean energy projects and would support the scaling of the facility.
Joby’s long-term investor, Toyota, who worked with Joby on the design and successful launch of the company’s Pilot Production Line in Marina, California, plans to continue to advise Joby as it prepares for scaled production of its commercial passenger air taxi in Ohio.
“We’re building the future of aviation right where it all started, in Dayton, Ohio,” said JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby. “The Wright Brothers harnessed revolutionary technology of their time to open up the skies, and we intend to do the same — this time, bringing quiet and emissions-free flight that we hope will have an equally profound impact on our world.
“The U.S. continues to lead the way on introducing this technology, with unprecedented levels of support across all areas and levels of government. We’re incredibly grateful to Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jon Husted, Senator Sherrod Brown, Senator JD Vance, Representative Mike Turner, and the team at JobsOhio for their support, as well as the representatives of the many other states we worked with during this process.
“Our partnership with Ohio is a great example of how successful public-private partnership amongst industry, local, state and federal government can bring important new technology to life.”
Joby plans to start hiring in the coming months, with early roles expected to focus on the build out of the scaled facility and the machining of parts that will initially be incorporated into Joby’s California low-volume production line.
Joby’s headquarters, research and development, and pilot production facility will remain in California.
Why it matters: Economic incentives from state and federal governments and Joby’s deep partnership with Toyota and the automotive industry make the rust belt the perfect location for a scaled eVTOL manufacturing facility. With the new jobs generated and ability to secure low-interest loans for the development of the site, Joby stands to quickly produce its eVTOL at rates up to 500/year.
Source: Joby Press Release
KLM Takes Flight into the Electric Future: A Glimpse into Electric, Sustainable Aviation
In a groundbreaking event that offers a glimpse into the future of aviation, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, in collaboration with the Electric Flying Connection (EFC) and the E-Flight Academy, recently hosted a two-day experience of electric flying. The event provided 18 lucky guests with the opportunity to take a trial flying lesson aboard the Pipistrel Velis Electro, a certified two-seat...

KLM Takes Flight into the Electric Future: A Glimpse into Electric, Sustainable Aviation

In a groundbreaking event that offers a glimpse into the future of aviation, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, in collaboration with the Electric Flying Connection (EFC) and the E-Flight Academy, recently hosted a two-day experience of electric flying. The event provided 18 lucky guests with the opportunity to take a trial flying lesson aboard the Pipistrel Velis Electro, a certified two-seat electric aircraft. These flights operated between Lelystad Airport and Schiphol-Oost, offering valuable insights into electric flight logistics and the challenges it presents.

Jolanda Stevens, program manager for Zero Emission Aviation at KLM, emphasized the importance of testing new technologies in practice to make air transport more sustainable. She highlighted that the initiatives undertaken today could pave the way for scalable applications in the future.
Schiphol Airport was chosen as the starting point due to its status as KLM’s home base. The Pipistrel Velis Electro, while limited in range, presented a unique opportunity to explore the logistics and infrastructure required for electric flight. As electric aircraft need recharging, cooperation with airports and air traffic control is vital to ensure safe and efficient operations.
While the Pipistrel Velis Electro would never practically become a part of KLM’s route network, these trial flight lessons serve as an important stepping stone towards future electric aviation. Market experts predict that by 2035, larger electric aircraft capable of carrying 50 to 100 passengers with longer ranges will emerge. KLM’s commitment to researching various technologies, including electric, hydrogen, and hybrid propulsion, underscores its dedication to sustainable aviation.
KLM’s climate strategy is aligned with the journey towards Zero Emission Aviation. The airline recognizes the need for cleaner, quieter, and more fuel-efficient operations, and KLM’s journey along this path means not only adopting new aircraft but also developing infrastructure, optimizing airspace usage, and enhancing operational efficiency. Collaboration across the aviation value chain is essential to overcoming the challenges and uncertainties associated with this transition.
The Electric Flying Connection (EFC) is a trade association with over 50 members from various segments of the electric flight ecosystem, plays a pivotal role in advancing the sustainability of air transport. By connecting airlines, aircraft manufacturers, flight academies, infrastructure developers, and more, EFC fosters collaboration and innovation in the pursuit of greener skies.
Why it’s important: KLM’s recent electric flying experience demonstrates the airline’s commitment to pioneering sustainable aviation solutions. As the industry progresses, initiatives like these will contribute to a more eco-friendly and efficient future for aerial mobility and increase awareness to the general public about the progress being made in the industry.
uAvionix and Choctaw Nation Tech Center Complete First US BVLOS Flights in General Airspace Using Aviation C-Band
In a milestone for the drone industry, uAvionix anounced last week that in joint operation at the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) Emerging Aviation Technology Center, they’ve successfully completed the first Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flight in non-segregated airspace using aviation-protected C-Band frequencies in the United States. Serving as the Command and Control Communications Service Provider (C2CSP), uAvionix...

uAvionix and Choctaw Nation Tech Center Complete First US BVLOS Flights in General Airspace Using Aviation C-Band

In a milestone for the drone industry, uAvionix anounced last week that in joint operation at the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) Emerging Aviation Technology Center, they’ve successfully completed the first Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flight in non-segregated airspace using aviation-protected C-Band frequencies in the United States. Serving as the Command and Control Communications Service Provider (C2CSP), uAvionix has marked a significant leap forward for Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) operators and businesses looking to expand scalable UAS operations.

The BVLOS flight, made possible through uAvionix’s SkyLine software service, was the culmination of years of engineering, planning, and regulatory cooperation. This achievement is poised to improve industries such as medical and package delivery, linear utility inspection, and emergency management.
Paul Beard, uAvionix’s founder and CTO, discussed SkyLine software’s capabilities, which encompass link management and detect and avoid services across multiple frequencies and data inputs. It adheres to rigorous aviation safety and certification standards, allowing BVLOS flights without the need for chase vehicles or visual observers. Beard describes it as a “brilliant piece of engineering and operations.”
uAvionix recently secured FCC approval, in collaboration with the FAA, to operate both airborne and ground radio stations on C-Band during BVLOS flights. The SkyLine cloud-based software service, coupled with the SkyLink airborne and SkyStation ground-based radios, ensures uninterrupted communication over challenging terrains.
The BVLOS flight showcased uAvionix’s Super Volo aircraft and its innovative muLTELink5060 airborne radio, supported by four SkyLink5060 ground radios deployed across the expansive CNO UAS test site. The SkyLine system continuously monitored communication links between the ground stations and the aircraft, ensuring reliable command and control. Detect and avoid data from terrestrial sensors enhanced situational awareness for the Remote Pilot in Command.
James Grimley, Executive Director for the Choctaw Nation Oklahoma Emerging Aviation Technologies Center, recognizes uAvionix’s pioneering efforts, emphasizing their role in creating a technical and operational system that paves the way for safe UAS operations, benefiting both the economy and culture of their communities.
Why it’s important: uAvionix, driven by its mission to enhance aviation safety, has achieved a historic BVLOS flight and set the stage for future UAS and aerial mobility operations, all while adhering to aviation-grade standards and regulatory approval. This achievement marks a considerable step towards realizing the potential of drones and autonomous aerial systems in various critical applications.
Joby Secures an Additional $180M Investment
Last week, Joby Aviation posted its Q1 earnings showing a strong cash reserve of $978M USD, not including an additional $180M USD from Baillie Gifford, a Scottish investment firm, with offices in New York and London. These additional funds are expected to be used to accelerate Joby’s early production, enabling the business to capitalize on near-term revenue opportunities without impacting...

Joby Secures an Additional $180M Investment

Last week, Joby Aviation posted its Q1 earnings showing a strong cash reserve of $978M USD, not including an additional $180M USD from Baillie Gifford, a Scottish investment firm, with offices in New York and London.
These additional funds are expected to be used to accelerate Joby’s early production, enabling the business to capitalize on near-term revenue opportunities without impacting the funds available to carry the company through to type certification of its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
“The decision by Baillie Gifford to invest further in Joby is a testament to their long-term belief in the electrification of transportation and their track record speaks for itself. We couldn’t be more proud to have their support,” said Joby CEO and founder, JoeBen Bevirt.
In addition to the investment from Baillie Gifford, Joby also announced it has nearly completed its first production prototype which will conform to certification standards. On the certification front, Joby also announced it has submitted three more Area Specific Certification Plans (ASCPs) to the FAA, bringing the total to 11 of 13 ASCPs submitted. Two additional ASCPs were accepted by the FAA this quarter.
Commenting on the results, JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO, Joby, said: “Already in 2023 we’ve achieved significant milestones in production, testing and funding and I’m incredibly excited about our progress as we move towards our goal of launching commercial service in 2025.
A copy of this quarter’s letter to investors can be found here.
Why it matters: With an additional $180M in net proceeds in addition to a strong cash reserve, Joby will likely have enough reserves to execute its flight test program and make it to FAA certification. With the Certification Basis and Means of Compliance phases complete with the FAA, Joby now needs to finalize Certification Plans and execute its flight test campaign before deliveries can begin.
Joby and Toyota Expand Partnership with Long-Term Supply Agreement for Key Powertrain and Actuation Components
Joby has announced in a press release today it has signed a long-term agreement with Toyota Motor Corporation to supply key powertrain and actuation components for the production of the the company’s eVTOL production model. The agreement builds on the long-standing partnership between Joby and Toyota, which has seen the two companies collaborate on a wide variety of projects to...

Joby and Toyota Expand Partnership with Long-Term Supply Agreement for Key Powertrain and Actuation Components

Joby has announced in a press release today it has signed a long-term agreement with Toyota Motor Corporation to supply key powertrain and actuation components for the production of the the company’s eVTOL production model.

The agreement builds on the long-standing partnership between Joby and Toyota, which has seen the two companies collaborate on a wide variety of projects to support the production and assembly of the Joby aircraft, including advising on the design of Joby’s pilot production line in Marina, CA. Toyota is also Joby’s largest external shareholder, having invested around $400 million in Joby.
JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO of Joby, commenting on the agreement, said: “Our partnership with Toyota continues to be an integral part of Joby’s success, from assisting in the design of our pilot production line in Marina, California, to supplying key components for our aircraft.”
“I’m grateful for Toyota’s unwavering dedication to Joby as we work together to deliver a new form of fast, quiet and emissions-free mobility for cities and communities around the world. Their expertise and knowledge has helped put us on track to deliver, at scale, an aircraft that we believe is truly best-in-class.”
The components, designed by Joby and manufactured by Toyota, will be delivered to Joby’s powertrain and electronics manufacturing facility in San Carlos, California, before the finished assemblies are shipped to the company’s pilot production line in Marina for integration. Intended to prove out scalable tooling and processes at low volumes in advance of aircraft production at full scale, Joby’s Marina facilities were designed with Toyota’s help, leveraging decades of experience delivering reliable, high-quality cars at high volume.
Toyota Motor Corporation Connected Company President Keiji Yamamoto added: “We are very pleased to have reached this milestone with our key partner. Our mutual goal is mass production of eVTOL and helping Joby apply the best practices of the Toyota Production System in meeting high quality, reliability, safety, and strict cost standards.
“We are excited about the potential for further collaboration as we seek to realize Mobility for All with a seamlessly integrated air-to-ground mobility network.”

Why it matters: Toyota’s manufacturing prowess and technical expertise in powertrain components is a valuable addition to Joby’s technical acumen. Toyota’s $400M USD investment will also help Joby get to certification and commercialization faster than other eVTOL makers, giving it a strong competitive advantage.
Source: Joby Press Release
Related:
- Joby Finalizes Assembly of Company-conforming aircraft (March 2023)
- Joby Completes Second Stage of Certification Process (February 2023)
- Delta and Joby to Partner for Seamless Home-to-Airport Transportation (October 2022)
- Joby Aviation Acquires Uber Elevate, Receives Airworthiness Approval from U.S Military (December 2020)
Joby Finalizes Assembly of Company-conforming aircraft
Joby Aviation, major maker of an all-electric, passenger-carrying eVTOL has announced that it has begun final assembly of its first ‘company-conforming’ aircraft. This means this particular prototype was built in accordance with the manufacturing processes and quality management standards that will be used to mass-produce their eVTOL aircraft. This latest announcement from Joby marks a significant step forward to the...

Joby Finalizes Assembly of Company-conforming aircraft

Joby Aviation, major maker of an all-electric, passenger-carrying eVTOL has announced that it has begun final assembly of its first ‘company-conforming’ aircraft. This means this particular prototype was built in accordance with the manufacturing processes and quality management standards that will be used to mass-produce their eVTOL aircraft.

This latest announcement from Joby marks a significant step forward to the commercialization of Joby’s eVTOL, as well as a key step on the journey to achieve Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type certification required to begin passenger-carrying operations.
Having built the major aerostructures of the aircraft – the wing, tail, and fuselage – Joby is now beginning the process of fusing the structures together and installing the wiring, electronics, actuation, and propulsion systems on this pilot production aircraft. Joby expects the aircraft to begin flight testing of the aircraft in the first half of 2023.
“Beginning final assembly of our first company-conforming aircraft is a critical achievement for Joby and a landmark for the wider eVTOL industry,” said Didier Papadopoulos, Head of Aircraft OEM at Joby.
Notably, the construction of this aircraft is in accordance with Joby’s signature Quality Management System, which includes tracking and documentation of every part on the aircraft, configuration management of engineering drawings, environmental conditions during fabrication, and actions taken by manufacturing technicians. The Quality System is reviewed regularly by the FAA as part of the company’s preparation to receive a production certificate following the type certification of the aircraft.

Above: A prototype of Joby’s eVTOL in flight
Why it’s important: This aircraft from Joby is the first of its eVTOLs to be made with the same processes that will be used to mass-produce the aircraft. This is a major milestone for the company, as it sets the company up to begin producing their aircraft at scale for commercialization as soon as all necessary certifications are earned. Notably, Joby is one of the first eVTOL developers ever to reach this stage.
Source // Joby Aviation
Joby Completes Second Stage of Certification Process
Joby this week announced it has completed the second of five stages required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to certify its eVTOL aircraft for commercial passenger use. In the second stage of the type certification process, a company identifies the ways in which it will demonstrate it has met the regulatory intent of the safety rules (“Means of Compliance”)...

Joby Completes Second Stage of Certification Process

Joby this week announced it has completed the second of five stages required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to certify its eVTOL aircraft for commercial passenger use.
In the second stage of the type certification process, a company identifies the ways in which it will demonstrate it has met the regulatory intent of the safety rules (“Means of Compliance”) that were defined during the first stage of the process (“Certification Basis”).
Joby in a press release this week claimed it is the first eVTOL company to reach this milestone, having also been the first eVTOL company to complete stage one and have its Certification Basis published in the Federal Register.
“Certification is an integral part of everything that an aerospace company does and with the achievement of this critical milestone, we’re now able to confidently focus our efforts on closing the remaining certification plans and completing the testing required to certify our aircraft,” said Didier Papadopoulos, Head of Aircraft OEM at Joby.
“We’re grateful for the FAA’s dedication to the safe introduction of eVTOL technology and their commitment to supporting continued US leadership in this sector,” he added.
Joby has also already made substantial progress in the third stage of the certification process (“Certification Plans”), with four area-specific certification plans (ASCPs) submitted to the FAA as of November and the company’s first equipment-level qualification test plan submitted to the FAA, enabling for-credit qualification testing to proceed. Progress also continues in stage four (“Testing and Analysis”) and stage five (“Show and Verify”).
It is typical for a small portion of the Means of Compliance to remain open to allow for further collaboration on minor design changes and improvements that may occur later in the certification process. With 94% of our Means of Compliance now accepted by the FAA, Joby considers the second stage essentially complete.
Why it matters: Achieving this goal moves Joby one step closer to its target of launching commercial passenger service by 2025. With the certification basis and means of compliance under its belt, Joby is well positioned to demonstrate airworthiness of its eVTOL aircraft ahead of others in the aerial mobility space. This advantage allows Joby the unique opportunity to be one of the first to commercialize its eVTOL aircraft upon certification.
Joby Completes First Half of FAA System Reviews
As part of its journey to Type certification, Joby’s eVTOL needs to undergo four system reviews, two of which have now been successfully completed. Joby Aviation, one of the forerunners of the eVTOL movement, has now announced another milestone in its journey to fully certify its electric eVTOL aircraft with the FAA. As Joby moves forward with Type Certification, it...

Joby Completes First Half of FAA System Reviews

As part of its journey to Type certification, Joby’s eVTOL needs to undergo four system reviews, two of which have now been successfully completed.

Joby Aviation, one of the forerunners of the eVTOL movement, has now announced another milestone in its journey to fully certify its electric eVTOL aircraft with the FAA.
As Joby moves forward with Type Certification, it has continually worked closely with the FAA. Part of this process involves several full-system audits of Joby’s aircraft, which take place in-person over several days. Earlier this month, Joby completed the second out of four of these system audits at their test site in Marina, CA. These reviews are conducted to validate the overall architecture of the aircraft and ensure the OEM’s development is on track to meet the FAA’s safety objectives.
Said Didier Papadopoulos, head of Aircraft OEM at Joby, “Progress on certification is a key area of focus for this nascent sector, and we’re pleased to mark our continued leadership with the successful completion of our second system review. We’re confident that our aircraft design is on track to meet the FAA’s expectations regarding system-level safety, redundancy, and overall aircraft architecture.”
Notably, Joby also recently worked with the FAA to determine the full Airworthiness criteria for its eVTOL. The criteria developed for Joby will also likely set standards for other upcoming eVTOLs, as Joby is on track to be the first to be certified in the United States. Read more about this collaboration here.
In late 2020, Joby emerged from stealth mode with hundreds of millions of dollars in investments, including major backing from Toyota. With these release, it simultaneously announced Military airworthiness certification, along with collaborations with NASA and the USAF’s Agility prime to bring the aircraft into commercial and government service. Read more on Joby here.
Why it’s important: With this milestone, Joby continues to mark consistent progress in its certification journey with the FAA. Not only does this prove the ability for eVTOL aircraft to successfully proceed with FAA certification; it also proves that Joby is able to complete its developmental goals. Additionally, this certification effort will likely pave the way for other upcoming eVTOL makers.
Source // Joby Aviation, Revolution Aero
Related:
FAA Proposes Airworthiness Criteria for Joby eVTOL
Earlier this week, the FAA released the airworthiness/certification criteria for Joby’s JAS4-1 eVTOL prototype and candidate for commercialization. This is the first of its kind and provides the public with a detailed certification plan for eVTOL platforms of the future. The document draws its criteria largely from Part 23 for certification of fixed-wing general aviation aircraft, but also takes content...

FAA Proposes Airworthiness Criteria for Joby eVTOL

Earlier this week, the FAA released the airworthiness/certification criteria for Joby’s JAS4-1 eVTOL prototype and candidate for commercialization. This is the first of its kind and provides the public with a detailed certification plan for eVTOL platforms of the future.
The document draws its criteria largely from Part 23 for certification of fixed-wing general aviation aircraft, but also takes content from Part 33 for engines and Part 35 for propellers. The FAA also introduced new criteria specific to eVTOL because “no existing standard captured the powered-lift [aircraft’s] transitional flight modes.”
The certification basis considers various flight modes, configurations, and electric engine performance standards. For this, the FAA developed new criteria for safe flight and landing in the event of a loss of power to ensure the vehicle maintains adequate performance. The FAA is also considering new regulations for bird strike avoidance and protection as eVTOL aircraft are quieter than traditional fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters.
It is expected Joby’s JAS4-1 will be certified to existing safety level criteria for Part 23 (probability of catastrophic failure on the scale of 10-7 or 10-8). It’s also known that Joby’s aircraft will not be held to the 10-9 safety level used on commercial aircraft by the FAA, but may face such a requirement with EASA.
A copy of the basis is available for viewing here.
Why it matters: Earlier this year, the FAA changed its certification basis for eVTOL aircraft. Rather than certifying under Part 23 alongside most general aviation fixed-wing aircraft, eVTOL platforms will be certified in their own special class. Joby has an advantage being the first in this category; as this may allow the company to help shape the criteria for all certified eVTOL platforms. Expect revisions to this document as the public and industry stakeholders provide comments for consideration.
Air France Industries Partners with Ampaire to Advance Electric Aviation Infrastructure
Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Ampaire, a company developing a family of hybrid-electric aircraft, to develop global resources for electric aircraft support and advancement. Above: Ampaire’s proof of concept aircraft, which already set the record for the longest ever flight by a hybrid-electric aircraft at 1,075 miles Ampaire has been...

Air France Industries Partners with Ampaire to Advance Electric Aviation Infrastructure

Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Ampaire, a company developing a family of hybrid-electric aircraft, to develop global resources for electric aircraft support and advancement.

Above: Ampaire’s proof of concept aircraft, which already set the record for the longest ever flight by a hybrid-electric aircraft at 1,075 miles
Ampaire has been developing electric and hybrid-electric aircraft concepts since its formation in 2016, with the mission to become the world’s most-trusted developer of practical electric aircraft. Currently, the company is in the process of certifying its nine-seat, hybrid-electric Eco Caravan, with an introduction to service planned for 2024, and plans to next create a larger 19-passenger aircraft.
In Ampaire’s new partnership with Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance, the two companies will work together to create global resources for electric aircraft support and development. These will include electric aircraft maintenance training programs, Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) upgrades, and potential component pooling and operational data analysis to ensure optimal support.
Said Kevin Noertker, founder Ampaire and CEO of Ampaire, “Ampaire and AFI KLM E&M will work together to explore maintenance support for game-changing low-emissions aircraft on a worldwide basis. AFI KLM E&M’s powerful global network and strong expertise will give operators everywhere high technical confidence in new propulsion systems. These systems will also provide optimized maintenance costs compared to conventional turbines.”
For Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance, the goal of the program is to make AFI KLM E&M a preferred global preferred partner for electric aircraft maintenance and training. Said Ton Dortmans, EVP KLM Engineering & Maintenance, “This MoU anticipates a future with expanded new ways of air transportation options hand-in-hand with lower emissions. We have chosen to collaborate with Ampaire because their approach is visionary and also extremely methodical and practical, which means these beneficial technologies can be already introduced in the very near future.”
The companies are also planning to collaborate on STC installations of Ampaire’s hybrid-electric upgrades through the airline’s global MRO network.
Why it’s important: With this announcement, Air France industries joins the growing number of major airlines investing in electric aviation. By forming this partnership early, AFI KLM E&M has signaled its belief that Ampaire will become a major electric aircraft provider, and has begun laying groundwork to make itself one of the world’s top providers in electric aircraft maintenance and support globally.
Source // Ampaire
Related:
- Delta and Joby to Partner for Seamless Home-to-Airport Transportation (October 2022)
- WingTips Orders Five of Ampaire’s Hybrid-Electric Grand Caravan Aircraft, Options for 20 More (August 2022)
- Ampaire to Collaborate with Black & Veatch on Electric Aircraft Infrastructure (June 2022)
Delta and Joby to Partner for Seamless Home-to-Airport Transportation
Delta has announced a massive $60m USD upfront equity investment in Joby with a total investment opportunity for $200 million as the airline hopes to be the first to offer eVTOL services for its passengers. Above: Joby CEO, JoeBen Bevirt and Delta CEO, Ed Bastian In a press release this week, Delta Airlines announced plans to partner with Joby Aviation...

Delta and Joby to Partner for Seamless Home-to-Airport Transportation

Delta has announced a massive $60m USD upfront equity investment in Joby with a total investment opportunity for $200 million as the airline hopes to be the first to offer eVTOL services for its passengers.

Above: Joby CEO, JoeBen Bevirt and Delta CEO, Ed Bastian
In a press release this week, Delta Airlines announced plans to partner with Joby Aviation for the operation of Joby’s eVTOL aircraft in New York and Los Angeles with seamless integration between Joby and Delta services. According to the release, “The partners will work together to create a differentiated, premium experience for Delta customers featuring seamless booking, simplified transit, and greater time savings. This will run alongside Joby’s standard airport service in priority markets. The partnership will be mutually exclusive across the U.S. and U.K. for five years following commercial launch, with the potential to extend that period.”
“Delta always looks forward and embraces opportunities to lead the future, and we’ve found in Joby a partner that shares our pioneering spirit and commitment to delivering innovative, seamless experiences that are better for our customers, their journeys, and our world,” said Delta CEO Ed Bastian. “This is a groundbreaking opportunity for Delta to deliver a time-saving, uniquely premium home-to-airport solution for customers in key markets we’ve been investing and innovating in for many years.”
“We share Delta’s unwavering commitment to delivering seamless and sustainable journeys to customers,” said Joby Founder and CEO JoeBen Bevirt. “Their history of innovation, along with their vast operational expertise and leadership on climate change, make them incredible partners for Joby, and it’s an honor to be working alongside them.”
Joby’s eVTOL aircraft is one of the most technologically mature in the aerial mobility space. The company has conducted over 1,000 test flights to date and was the first eVTOL company to be granted a G-1 (Stage 4) Certification Basis as well as its Part 135 Air Carrier Certification by the FAA.
Why it matters: Joby and Delta’s partnership is the latest in a series of airline-eVTOL partnerships announced this year alone. With Delta offering its passengers a seamless, premium service connecting the last leg from the airport to home, starting with New York and Los Angeles, the airline has an immense opportunity to revolutionize commercial air travel.
Source // Joby, Delta
Related:
- Joby Receives Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate From the FAA (May 2022)
- Joby Aviation Begins Certification Testing (February 2022)
- United Airlines Completes $10M Pre-Payment for 100 Archer eVTOL Aircraft (August 2022)
- American Airlines Solidifies Delivery Slots for Vertical Aerospace eVTOL Aircraft (July 2022)
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