Joby Aviation and Virgin Atlantic partner to launch electric air taxis in the UK

Joby partners with Virgin for eVTOL taxis in the UK, eyeing future launches.

: Joby Aviation is joining hands with Virgin Atlantic to introduce electric air taxis in the UK. This partnership aligns under an existing deal with Delta, which also sees Joby's presence in the US and UK. Joby plans to begin testing in Dubai before debuting in the UK and aims for US launch in 2025. Virgin's role includes marketing support, infrastructure development, and client bookings via its app.

Joby Aviation is collaborating with Virgin Atlantic to introduce electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in the UK. This move marks the seventh country where Joby aims to commercialize its services. The partnership does not follow a predefined launch timeline as it's contingent on Joby's existing plans to first roll out in the UAE and the United States. In the US, Joby is preparing for a service launch in locations such as New York and Los Angeles by 2025, although this timeline depends on securing Federal Aviation Administration certifications.

As part of its international expansion strategy, Joby Aviation intends to begin market tests in Dubai either late this year or next, post-delivery of their first eVTOL aircraft in the region. While Joby is also eyeing the US market, its plans could be deferred due to certification needs. Joby anticipates type certification completion, which confirms aircraft design approval, by October 2024, but has not specified updated timelines.

In joining Virgin Atlantic, Joby will serve as the exclusive airline distribution partner for the UK. This relationship falls under a pre-existing exclusive agreement with Delta Airlines, which owns a significant stake in Virgin. Delta has already invested $60 million into Joby, with the potential for an additional $140 million contingent on Joby's performance deliveries. Joby's partnership with Virgin, however, does not include direct investment.

Virgin Atlantic's role will encompass various marketing and development initiatives, including working with regulatory bodies and infrastructure development for landing sites at key UK airports. With eVTOL capabilities, Joby envisions dramatically shortening travel times, for example, flying from Leeds to Manchester in just 15 minutes at speeds up to 200 mph.

To facilitate the customer experience, Virgin plans to allow seat reservations on Joby's aircraft via its own booking platforms. This strategic move positions Joby alongside competitors like Archer Aviation, which has made similar deals with other airlines, as they vie to dominate the air taxi industry. This partnership underscores the airline's dedication to advancing not only air mobility but also awareness and infrastructure, signifying a major step toward Joby's vision of widespread air taxi deployment.

Sources: TechCrunch, Aviation Today, The Verge, BBC News, Financial Times

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