California-based Joby Aviation, a developer of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for commercial passenger service, has achieved a significant milestone by delivering its first aircraft to the United States Air Force. Impressively, this delivery occurred approximately six months ahead of the initially projected 2024 delivery date.
The Joby aircraft, boasting a remarkable range of up to 100 miles, inclusive of energy reserves, and a top speed of 200 mph, represents a groundbreaking addition to the aerospace landscape. Designed to efficiently and quietly transport a pilot and four passengers, it operates with zero operating emissions, aligning perfectly with the growing demand for sustainable aviation solutions.
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Joby’s collaboration with the US Department of Defense (DOD) encompasses a range of projects with a total potential contract value of $163 million, making it the most substantial contract within the industry. As part of this collaboration, Joby will demonstrate various logistics missions, including cargo and passenger transportation, in on-base operations. These missions will be carried out jointly by Joby and US Air Force personnel.
A noteworthy aspect of this partnership involves NASA’s participation, with plans to utilize the aircraft for research purposes. This research will focus on how eVTOL aircraft can be integrated into the national airspace, a crucial step in paving the way for their everyday use.
The aircraft in question, assembled at Joby’s Pilot Production Line in Marina, California, will call Edwards Air Force Base (AFB) home for at least the next year. Joby will provide charging and ground support equipment at a dedicated facility on the base, specially constructed by the Air Force to facilitate joint flight test operations.
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What sets this development apart is that the Joby aircraft, which has already commenced flight operations at Edwards AFB, becomes the first electric air taxi stationed on a US military base. This achievement is a key component of Joby’s $131 million AFWERX Agility Prime contract with the US Air Force.
Joby’s enduring partnership with the DOD traces back to 2016 when it engaged with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). This collaboration provided Joby with early funding and valuable access to test ranges and expertise, significantly contributing to the advancement of its aircraft development program.
Reflecting on this achievement, JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby, expressed pride in joining the ranks of revolutionary aircraft that have made history at Edwards Air Force Base. He acknowledged the pivotal role played by the DOD and NASA in propelling electric aviation and eVTOL aircraft development, underscoring the importance of successful public-private partnerships in advancing aerospace technology.
Wayne Ringelberg, a NASA research pilot, emphasized the significance of NASA’s involvement in the project. NASA’s research will encompass aspects such as handling qualities evaluation tools, autonomy, and airspace integration, vital research areas that are set to propel the entire eVTOL industry forward.