Joby Aviation and Virgin Atlantic Join Forces to Launch Revolutionary Electric Air Taxis in the UK

Joby Aviation is taking significant strides in the electric air taxi market by partnering with Virgin Atlantic to introduce electric air taxis in the U.K. This exciting development marks the seventh country where the innovative startup aims to establish its commercial services.

Future Plans for Joby Aviation and Virgin Atlantic

Although Joby Aviation, which went public in 2021 through a special purpose acquisition merger, has not disclosed a specific timeline for launching operations in the U.K., a company spokesperson informed TechCrunch that the initiative will commence after the launch of services in the UAE and the U.S.

Market Testing and Certification Updates

Joby aims to begin market testing in Dubai by late this year or early next year, following the delivery of its first electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to the region. While the company originally planned to initiate commercial services in the U.S. by 2025, this timeline may be adjusted as Joby awaits the necessary certifications from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

In October 2024, Joby announced progress towards obtaining type certification, which confirms the vehicle’s design approval. However, the company has not provided an updated timeline for this certification process.

Regulatory Compliance in the U.K.

Before launching in the U.K., Joby must secure its own certifications from the U.K. Civil Aviation Authority. The company applied for validation of its aircraft in July 2022.

Strategic Partnership with Virgin Atlantic

Joby’s collaboration with Virgin Atlantic comes approximately seven months after reports emerged about their plans to join forces. Under this partnership, Joby will serve as Virgin’s exclusive airline distribution partner in the U.K. This deal aligns with Joby’s existing agreement with Delta Air Lines, which owns nearly half of Virgin Atlantic.

Enhancing Customer Experience

• Joby and Virgin aim to provide a premium service connecting local vertiports directly to airports.
• Initially, the service will link passengers from Virgin’s hubs at London’s Heathrow and Manchester Airport.
• Virgin customers will be able to reserve a seat on Joby’s aircraft via the Virgin Atlantic app and website.

Partnering with established airlines is a strategic move for eVTOL companies. Joby’s primary competitor, Archer Aviation, has also formed partnerships with major airlines like United and Southwest.

Investment and Support for Joby Aviation

Many of these airline partnerships involve significant investments. For instance, Delta has invested $60 million in Joby, with the potential to increase this amount to $200 million, contingent on Joby meeting its commitments. However, no investment is part of the agreement with Virgin Atlantic, as stated by a Joby representative.

Virgin Atlantic has committed to supporting Joby’s entry into the U.K. market by marketing the service, collaborating with regulators, and assisting in the development of landing infrastructure at key airports.

eVTOL Aircraft Specifications

Joby’s eVTOL aircraft will accommodate a pilot, four passengers, and luggage, with a maximum speed of 200 miles per hour. This capability allows for a quick 15-minute flight from Leeds to Manchester.

While Joby Aviation is still in the early stages of deployment, the company has ambitious plans to launch air taxi services in various countries, including the U.S., U.K., UAE, South Korea, Japan, India, and Australia.