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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]
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Key Takeaways:

  • Joby Aviation has received FAA Part 141 flight academy certification, enabling it to train pilots for its electric air taxis at the new Joby Aviation Academy in California.
  • This pilot training is made possible by a recent FAA special federal aviation regulation (SFAR) for "powered-lift" aircraft, a new civil aircraft category that includes eVTOLs and allows for significant simulator-based training.
  • Joby also secured FAA acceptance for its comprehensive safety management system (SMS) for air operations under CFR 14 Part 5, a crucial requirement for Part 135 operators.
  • The academy plans to offer various pilot courses and expects to train commercial aviators to fly its air taxis in about six weeks, preparing for a potential service launch as early as next year.
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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.

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