Joby Aviation, a leading manufacturer, showcased the future of urban transportation with an exhibition flight at the Downtown Manhattan Heliport in New York. This marked the city’s inaugural electric air taxi flight and a groundbreaking moment for Joby Aviation in an urban setting.
The electric air taxis, set to revolutionize city commuting, have the potential to transport passengers from JFK Airport to downtown Manhattan in approximately seven minutes. These emissions-free journeys offer a quiet and efficient mode of travel, contributing to a more sustainable urban environment.
According to Joby Aviation’s CEO, JoeBen Bevirt, the electric air taxis can recharge in about five minutes, a process seamlessly integrated while passengers unload and board. The envisioned travel experience resembles that of a rideshare app, where travellers can conveniently book their journeys.
Joby Aviation aims to commence commercial passenger service by 2025 and is currently in the third stage of a five-stage certification process with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The company’s commitment to meeting regulatory standards underscores its dedication to ensuring safe and reliable air travel.
While the cost of booking a trip on these electric air taxis is yet to be confirmed, Joby Aviation has indicated that it will likely be comparable to the cost of a rideshare in a conventional car. This affordability factor aligns with the company’s mission to make electric air taxis a practical and accessible mode of transportation for urban commuters.