Electric air taxi developer Joby Aviation, Inc has announced the completion of the first piloted eVTOL flight between two US airports.
The flight operated between the airports of Marina and Monterey, California.
The short flight lasted 12 minutes over 10 nautical miles.
The piloted flight included vertical takeoff, transition to wingborne flight, integration into the controlled airspace around and vertical landing.
It marks a milestone for the piloted eVTOL air taxi development.
The flight also included mobile flight tests and full ground support operations.
The company says it is a key phase completed on its path to eVTOL air taxi commercialization.
“Successfully flying from Marina to Monterey showcased operations in the broader transportation network and ensures we’re prepared for service on day one,” said Didier Papadopoulos, President of Aircraft OEM at Joby.
“For years, our flight testing has validated our aircraft’s capabilities, and we’ve done this across a wide range of environmental conditions.”
The flight tests also provided developmental data related to the human factors of operating the aircraft at a controlled airport and enroute in national airspace.
The Joby flight also sequenced with other aircraft at Monterey Airport, including joining a holding pattern to accommodate another arriving flight.
