Exclusive Rights Allow Taxi Operation for 6 Years

Joby Aviation has signed an agreement with the Road and Transport Authority of Dubai, UAE to launch air taxi services in the region by 2026.

The agreement will grant Joby an exclusive service window of 6 years, and comes along with "a variety of support from the Authority, including financial mechanisms for entry and maturing of service operations in Dubai". Joby has a target of 'early 2026' to begin commercial service, but they would like to beat that entry date if possible and hit the ground running as much as a full year earlier.

The Company and Transport Authority have been working to ensure a regulatory pathway for their eVTOL aircraft. The current framework was designed by the General Civil Aviation Authority of the UAE, and will build on FAA standards with a bevy of domestic oversight, analysis, and testing. Early operations will be subject to a continual review process, ensuring smooth and safe public rollout for eVTOL air taxis.

JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO, Joby Aviation, said: “It is an honor to partner with the government of Dubai to demonstrate the value of sustainable air travel to the world.

“Today’s landmark agreement delivers on all three ingredients required to successfully launch an air taxi service - a definitive path to operations, well-placed infrastructure supported by dedicated partners, and an aircraft with the capacity and range to deliver meaningful journeys.

“We’re looking forward to delivering an incredible experience for residents and visitors to Dubai as early as 2025 and we’re excited to be laying the groundwork for the expansion of our service across the wider UAE.”

Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors for the Transport Authority, said the agreement was emblematic of the UAE's approach to modernization. “The air taxi service is part of RTA’s efforts to embrace future transportation technologies and offers a novel and efficient mobility option for Dubai's residents and visitors, enabling fast, safe, and convenient travel to key city spots. This service will also enhance seamless multimodal transportation, improving citywide connectivity, and ensuring a smooth travel experience for passengers.”

FMI: www.jobyaviation.com