In a groundbreaking move set to launch air taxi services in the UK, Joby Aviation has announced a strategic partnership with Virgin Atlantic.
The new partnership, which was unveiled on March 15, 2025, marks a significant step toward launching zero-emission, high-speed air taxi services across the country. According to the United States venture-backed aviation company, the new air taxi service will initially connect key Virgin Atlantic hubs, including London Heathrow (LHR) and Manchester Airport (MAN), with regional cities. Passengers flying with Virgin Atlantic and Delta Air Lines will soon be able to book Joby air taxi flights directly through Virgin Atlantic.
According to Joby Aviation, its all-electric air taxi is designed for fast, emissions-free travel. It can fly at speeds of up to 200 mph and uses six tilting propellers that allow for quiet takeoffs and landings, making it perfect for busy cities. Each aircraft will carry a pilot and up to four passengers on trips of up to 100 miles. For example, a flight from Manchester Airport to Leeds could take just 15 minutes, while a journey from Heathrow to Canary Wharf might only take 8 minutes. This offers travelers a much faster option compared to driving.
Virgin Atlantic will play a key role in helping Joby build passenger trust and work with regulators as they launch this new air taxi service in the UK. The companies plan to offer prices similar to premium ridesharing services, making air taxis an easy and convenient option for more travelers.
“With innovation firmly in our DNA, we are delighted to partner with Joby to bring zero-emission, short-haul flights to airports and cities throughout the UK,” Shai Weiss, the chief executive officer (CEO) of Virgin Atlantic, said. “Together, we’ll deliver faster, more convenient connections and enhance the travel experience for our customers.”
As the UK focuses on more sustainable ways to travel, the partnership between Joby Aviation and Virgin Atlantic aims to change how people get around by bringing electric, zero-emission air travel closer to everyday life.
Joby’s electric air taxi was first showcased in the UK at the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow. The company also applied for approval from the UK Civil Aviation Authority in 2022. With thousands of test flights already completed in locations such as New York, Japan, and Korea, Joby announced it is ready to introduce its cutting-edge technology to passengers in the UK.
1 comment
So this aircraft is going to carry 4 pax between to busy commercial airports?
How much baggage can each of those 4 pax carry? International airport pax typically have at least 25kg of baggage I would estimate conservatively.
And how will this aircraft mix with the current air traffic at these two busy airports?
Where will the terminal be for these eVTOL’s be? Do you have to take a buses or cars, or taxis to reach them? Are they conveniently located for pax, and bags after leaving or entering customs and immigration?
What will the cost be?
There is a lot to consider before these might see any useful purpose, and operate at a profit.
Of course all of this will come after regulations are drafted, reviewed, accepted, published, and implemented.