EVTOL startup Joby Aviation received certification from the FAA allowing it to begin air-taxi operations and build out its infrastructure.
FAA certification is a big deal for any aviation startup, but even more so for on that’s trying to be the first mainstream air taxi service to make it to prime time. But that “kinda” up there? It’s a pretty big one– the FAA certification (the Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate) only gives them clearance to begin flying conventional aircraft, not its revolutionary EVTOL.
That’s not to say this isn’t big news. Part 135 is one the three big approvals Joby will need to get their dream of being an airborne Uber off the ground. What’s more, flying people around– even in conventional aircraft– will help the company get its processes in order as it begins to scale.
Joby plans to put its S4 aircraft into series production by 2024, starting at around 200-400 units per year before ramping up into the thousands. The company will also try to sell its multi-rotor aircraft to other operators and hobby pilots.
It might, too– that thing’s pretty cool. If you’ve never seen it fly, you should watch the flight video, below, then let us know what you think Joby’s chances of making it might in the comments section at the bottom of the page.
Joby: All-electric Flight
SOURCE | IMAGES: JOBY, VIA REUTERS.
