Joby Aviation, Inc. (NYSE: JOBY) has reached a major milestone in electric air mobility, completing its first piloted eVTOL flight between two public airports in FAA-controlled airspace. The flight connected Marina (OAR) and Monterey (MRY), California, marking a critical step in Joby’s journey toward commercial passenger service.
Covering 10 nautical miles in approximately 12 minutes, including five minutes in a holding pattern at Monterey for air traffic spacing, the piloted flight demonstrated vertical takeoff, transition to wingborne flight, integration into controlled airspace, and vertical landing. This marks the first time a piloted eVTOL air taxi has flown from one public airport to another.
“Successfully flying from Marina to Monterey showcased operations of our aircraft integrated in the broader transportation network and further validated its performance to ensure we’re prepared for service on day one,” said Didier Papadopoulos, President of Aircraft OEM at Joby.
The operation highlighted Joby’s capabilities in safety, air traffic integration, pilot certification, and mobile ground support. The flight also provided valuable developmental data on human factors and operational procedures in controlled airspace. Joby’s aircraft sequenced seamlessly with other traffic at Monterey, including accommodating a holding pattern for an arriving airliner, adhering to standard air traffic control protocols.
The milestone builds on Joby’s extensive testing program, which has logged more than 40,000 miles across its fleet. The company recently began final assembly of its first aircraft intended for Type Inspection Authorization flight testing, one of the last steps in FAA certification. Following certification, Joby plans to launch commercial service in Los Angeles and New York City, with its acquisition of Blade Air Mobility’s passenger business further underscoring its market readiness.
SOURCE AND IMAGE: JOBY AVIATION
