In a groundbreaking development, Joby Aviation, also known as JOBY, recently announced the successful delivery of its inaugural electric air taxi to Edwards Air Force Base. This milestone marks a significant leap forward in the realm of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, as the vehicle is set to be utilized by U.S. military pilots for logistics missions on the base.
What’s even more impressive is that this delivery occurred approximately six months ahead of the initially anticipated 2024 delivery date, as part of Joby’s contractual partnership with the U.S. Air Force. A second aircraft is slated to arrive at Edwards Air Force Base early next year, further cementing Joby’s collaboration with the Department of Defense, a relationship that dates back to 2016.
Joby’s pioneering aircraft boasts an impressive range of up to 100 miles, additional energy reserves, and a top speed of 200 mph. Notably, this eVTOL aircraft has the capacity to transport a pilot and four passengers swiftly and quietly while producing zero operating emissions. This achievement is truly historic, as Joby’s aircraft becomes the first electric air taxi to be stationed on a U.S. military base.
It also represents the inaugural delivery of an electric air taxi within the United States, as part of Joby’s substantial $131 million AFWERX Agility Prime contract with the U.S. Air Force. Under this contract, Joby is set to provide up to nine aircraft to the U.S. Air Force and other federal agencies, underscoring the U.S. government’s continued commitment to spearheading the development and adoption of eVTOL technology, thereby ushering in a new era of electric aviation.
We’re proud to join the ranks of revolutionary aircraft that first demonstrated their capabilities at Edwards Air Force Base, including the first American jet fighter, the first supersonic aircraft, and many others that have pushed the boundaries of aviation technology.
JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby
The U.S. Air Force and Joby will collaborate on joint flight testing, operations, and pilot training while receiving support from NASA through its partnership with the U.S. Air Force’s AFWERX program, which includes providing pilots, researchers, and equipment to advance the cause of the Advanced Air Mobility industry for the benefit of all.
In conclusion, Joby’s historic delivery of its first electric air taxi to Edwards Air Force Base ahead of schedule represents a significant milestone in the world of eVTOL technology and solidifies the United States’ commitment to advancing the future of electric aviation. With more deliveries on the horizon and collaborative efforts with the U.S. Air Force and NASA, the sky is truly the limit for Joby Aviation and the eVTOL industry as a whole.
