Flying taxis: from childhood dream to the sky-high reality

Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation begin their first steps to dominate the skies with air cabs.

JoeBen Bevirt’s dream of creating a fast and efficient mode of transportation began in the 1980s when he was a child. Today, Bevirt is the CEO of Joby Aviation and is on the verge of making his vision a reality. How? Joby Aviation is one of the pioneering companies in developing a new class of electric aircraft that aim to become air taxis.

Joby Aviation’s electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles are designed to take off like helicopters, fly at 320 km/h, and cover distances up to 160 km. Unlike helicopters, eVTOLs are quieter and generate no emissions thanks to their electric motors. They are ideal for urban transport due to their ability to operate in tight spaces. Additionally, they have applications in search and rescue missions, medical supply transport, and military uses such as reconnaissance or evacuations. Joby also plans to integrate them with ridesharing platforms and advanced booking systems.

Fierce Competition in the Air Taxi Field

However, Joby Aviation is not the only company at the forefront of this innovative development. Companies like Archer Aviation are also testing their own eVTOLs, backed by giants like Stellantis and United Airlines. Furthermore, Wisk Aero, linked to Boeing, is also looking to commercialize these vehicles in the United States.

Joby Aviation has already made deals with Delta Air Lines to integrate their air taxis, while Archer has closed a contract to sell up to 200 aircraft to United Airlines. Undoubtedly, fierce competition is emerging in this field.

However, regulatory advancements remain a challenge. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has recently created a new category for eVTOLs called “powered lift,” an important step not taken since the introduction of civilian helicopters in the 1940s. However, several regulatory hurdles remain before air taxis can transport passengers in the U.S.

The elected president of the United States, Donald Trump, has also expressed interest in prioritizing the development of flying cars, while in China, the eVTOL sector is advancing rapidly.

Companies Preparing for the Future of Transportation

Bevirt is optimistic about the future of air taxis in cities like New York and Los Angeles, where his company plans to offer fast 10-minute trips from airports to Manhattan. Although initial prices will likely be high compared to traditional taxis, the increase in demand could reduce the price difference over time.

Archer’s CEO, Adam Goldstein, also predicts a radical transformation in urban transport, with these aircraft proliferating in the skies. Backed by investors who have enabled Archer to raise $430 million and Joby to receive investments near $900 million, the future of air taxis looks promising.