Register

Joby Gets FAA Sign-Off to Launch Air Taxi Flight Academy

Company receives FAA Part 141 approval to begin training the first generation of pilots for its electric vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) design.

Joby Aviation electric VTOL air taxi flight academy
Joby received FAA approval to launch an air taxi flight academy, where it will train pilots to fly its flagship vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) design. [Courtesy: Joby Aviation]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Joby Aviation received FAA Part 141 flight academy certification to train pilots for its novel electric air taxis, a critical step as no existing pilots are qualified for this new "powered-lift" aircraft category.
  • The FAA's recent Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) provides the framework for training pilots for powered-lift aircraft, allowing Joby to establish its academy and curriculum.
  • Joby also secured FAA acceptance for its comprehensive Safety Management System (SMS) under CFR 14 Part 5, a key regulatory requirement for its air operations.
  • These certifications are significant milestones for Joby as it aims to launch its home-to-airport air taxi service, in partnership with Delta Air Lines, as early as next year.
See a mistake? Contact us.

Joby Aviation—a developer of electric air taxis designed for a pilot to fly as many as four passengers on short-hop flights within major cities such as New York and Los Angeles—is gearing up to train a new generation of pilots.

The manufacturer on Tuesday said it received Part 141 flight academy certification from the FAA, laying the groundwork to begin training qualified aviators at its Joby Aviation Academy in Watsonville, California, a short air taxi flight away from its headquarters in Santa Cruz. The company intends to offer private pilot, instrument rating, commercial pilot, and certified flight instructor courses, beginning at entry level. Graduates could go on to fly air taxis for Joby or a competitor.

Jack Daleo

Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE