Joby Aviation Expands Its Urban Air Taxi Operations with $125 Million Acquisition

The innovative electric air-taxi company, Joby Aviation, is strengthening its presence in major urban markets worldwide by acquiring a competitor’s subsidiary for $125 million. This move comes as Joby approaches federal certification to start passenger flights next year.

Based in Santa Cruz, California, Joby has already demonstrated its aircraft’s capabilities by transporting up to 50,000 passengers via helicopter and plane demos in locations including New York, Europe, and Dubai, where infrastructure is already established.

“With their existing infrastructure and loyal customer base, we will be well-positioned to launch our quiet, electric aircraft as soon as certification is granted,” said CEO JoeBen Bevirt.

A tiltrotor aircraft flying over New York City skyline — The aerospace company showcased a prototype in Grand Central Station, hinting at a future where New Yorkers could bypass traffic and subways, reaching JFK Airport in under seven minutes.

Joby will integrate Blade’s terminal facilities at JFK and Newark Liberty airports, along with other takeoff and landing sites around Manhattan. This development aligns with a recent pilot program authorized by an executive order, encouraging the deployment of air taxis across the country.

Recently, Joby secured approximately 80% of FAA certification requirements, backed by investments from Uber, Toyota, and Delta, and has an agreement to include ride-share booking options for its electric aircraft through existing apps.

JoeBen Bevirt speaking at a conference — “Access to infrastructure and customer loyalty position us to launch our electric aircraft swiftly,” remarked JoeBen Bevirt.

Blade, specializing in medical transportation and electric rotorcraft, expressed confidence in the partnership, emphasizing the shared mission to transition toward electric aviation. Blade’s CEO, Rob Wiesenthal, will continue leading Blade’s passenger operations within Joby. The deal also involves restructuring Blade’s organ transport division into a separate publicly traded company.

Blade CEO Rob Wiesenthal next to a small aircraft — Blade’s CEO highlighted their commitment to advancing electric aviation alongside Joby.

Despite some concerns over Joby’s funding ties, including initial seed investments from billionaire Reid Hoffman and political contributions from other investors, the company maintains strong bipartisan support and continues to work closely with regulators.

With this strategic acquisition, Joby aims to pioneer a future where flying taxis become a daily commuting option, akin to scenes from “The Jetsons.”