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Electric Air Taxis Take Flight Over NYC
27 Apr
Summary
- Joby Aviation is demonstrating quieter, zero-emission air taxis in New York City.
- Flights aim to integrate air taxis into US airspace as part of a federal program.
- Air taxis are significantly quieter and designed differently than traditional helicopters.
Joby Aviation Inc. is scheduled to operate electric air taxi demonstration flights between John F. Kennedy International Airport and Manhattan this week. These flights will showcase the company's quieter, zero-emission aircraft in a city experiencing a surge in noise complaints. The demonstration marks New York's first point-to-point trips using an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle, utilizing existing helicopter routes operated by Blade Urban Air Mobility. These trips are integral to a new federal program designed to accelerate the integration of air taxis into US airspace. Joby CEO JoeBen Bevirt stated that air taxis are significantly quieter than helicopters, producing a 'whoosh' sound that blends into the background. The company intends to begin passenger flights in New York, Texas, and Florida as early as the second half of this year, provided it secures approval from the US Federal Aviation Administration. This initiative follows a federal program selection that allows cities to develop necessary infrastructure and foster public familiarity with the technology. Joby's aircraft are designed with enhanced safety features, including six propellers, redundant electric motors, and multiple flight computers, contrasting with the design origins of traditional helicopters.
