Joby, Virgin Atlantic Launch Electric Air Taxi Service in UK

Joby Aviation has partnered with Virgin Atlantic to launch electric air taxi services in the UK, enabling zero-emission, short-range journeys from hubs at Heathrow and Manchester airports. The service is expected to feature flights such as an 8-minute trip from Heathrow to Canary Wharf and 15 minutes from Manchester to Leeds, with a capacity for a pilot and four passengers flying at speeds up to 200 mph. Virgin Atlantic will facilitate the booking process through its app and website while supporting Joby in regulatory engagements and infrastructure development. This partnership builds on an existing agreement with Delta Air Lines, which holds a 49% stake in Virgin Atlantic, and aims to offer prices comparable to existing premium ground ridesharing options. Although no specific launch date has been announced, the companies are working towards securing necessary certifications from the UK Civil Aviation Authority. The initiative represents a significant step towards sustainable urban mobility in the UK.