Electric Air Taxis: A new era of urban transportation is taking off in the UK, as Joby Aviation partners with Virgin Atlantic to introduce zero-emission air taxis. This partnership aims to transform short-range travel, drastically cutting journey times while providing a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional transport.
Electric Air Taxis: Faster, Quieter & Efficient
Joby’s electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft is designed for fast, low-noise urban travel. Equipped with six tilting propellers, it can take off and land vertically, significantly reducing noise compared to conventional helicopters. With a top speed of 200 mph, the aircraft is optimized for rapid, back-to-back flights on routes of up to 100 miles.
The initial rollout will focus on key hubs like Heathrow and Manchester Airport, providing seamless connections to major cities. A flight from Heathrow to Canary Wharf will take just 8 minutes, compared to 80 minutes by car, while a Manchester Airport to Leeds journey could be completed in 15 minutes.
A Smooth Booking Experience
Passengers flying with Virgin Atlantic will be able to reserve seats on Joby’s air taxis through Virgin’s app and website, ensuring a streamlined and hassle-free experience. Pricing is expected to be comparable to premium ride-sharing options, making it an accessible choice for urban travelers.
A Growing Global Network
Joby has already conducted thousands of test flights, including demonstrations in New York City, Japan, and Korea. The company unveiled its aircraft to the UK public at the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow and is actively working with the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to gain operational approvals.
This partnership builds on Joby’s existing agreement with Delta Air Lines, which owns a 49% stake in Virgin Atlantic, reinforcing a global push for cleaner, faster, and smarter air mobility.
About Joby Aviation
Joby Aviation, Inc. (NYSE:JOBY) is a California-based company developing all-electric air taxis for fast, quiet, and convenient urban travel. To learn more, visit www.jobyaviation.com.
With plans to expand a network of landing sites across the UK, this partnership marks a significant step toward the future of sustainable air mobility—and it’s about to take off.
Disclaimer: This article is based on several news publications across the internet, is intended for informational purposes only and may not reflect the most accurate or latest updates. Always consult official website/sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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