Joby Aviation has announced a new partnership with Virgin Atlantic that will see both companies collaborate on the launch of air taxi services in the UK.
The partnership, which builds on an existing agreement between Joby and Delta Air Lines, will see Joby’s services launched in both the UK and US, with plans to offer regional and city connections from Virgin Atlantic’s hubs at Heathrow and Manchester Airport.
JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby, commented:Virgin Atlantic’s commitment to delighting its customers reflects our experience with Delta and we couldn’t imagine a better partner to work with in the UK.
Together, we are committed to delivering faster options for mobility across the country, including for Virgin Atlantic and Delta customers as they head to the airport or move between UK towns and cities.
With the announcement of the partnership; Joby has suggested the introduction of a 15-minute air taxi service between Manchester Airport and Leeds, as well as an 8-minute journey between Heathrow Airport and Canary Wharf, a journey that would currently take up to 80 minutes in a car.
Joby has also stated an expectation of network expansion, with the company aiming to provide services throughout cities and communities across the UK.
Designed to carry up to four passengers, Joby’s electric air taxi utilises six tilting propellers, and is capable of reaching speeds of 200 mph, with the company having completed a number of test flights thus far, including exhibition flights in New York, Japan and Korea.
The vehicle was first exhibited in the UK at the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow following a formal application to be validated for use by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (“CAA”) in July 2022.
Once operational; Virgin Atlantic customers will be able to reserve a seat on the aircraft through Virgin Atlantic’s app, website or other avenues.
Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, said:As a leader in sustainability and with innovation firmly in our DNA, we are delighted to be partnering with Joby to bring short-haul, zero-emission flight to airports and cities throughout the UK.
Our strategic partnership combines Joby’s expertise in design, engineering and technology with the power of Virgin Atlantic’s brand and award-winning customer experience. We look forward to working together to bring Joby’s service to the UK and to deliver greater connectivity for our customers.
