Joby to Begin U.S. Operations in 2026 Under White House Air Taxi Program

The electric aviation company plans to launch air taxi service in the U.S. next year as part of a new federal initiative.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Joby, an electric aviation company, has announced plans to begin U.S. operations in 2026 as part of the White House's new air taxi program. The company, based in Santa Cruz, California, will launch its air taxi service next year under the federal initiative aimed at expanding urban air mobility across the country.

Why it matters

The White House's air taxi program is a major push to accelerate the development and adoption of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, which proponents believe could revolutionize urban transportation by providing a new, emissions-free option for short-haul flights and trips. Joby's participation is a significant milestone for the industry, as the company is one of the most prominent players in the emerging eVTOL space.

The details

Joby, which has been testing its electric air taxi prototype in California, will be one of the first companies to launch commercial operations under the White House's new initiative. The program provides funding, regulatory support, and infrastructure development to help companies like Joby bring their eVTOL aircraft to market. Joby's air taxis will be able to carry up to four passengers and travel at speeds of up to 200 mph, with a range of 150 miles on a single charge.

  • Joby plans to begin U.S. operations in 2026.
  • The White House's air taxi program was announced in early 2026.

The players

Joby

An electric aviation company based in Santa Cruz, California, that is developing electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for urban air mobility.

White House

The executive office of the President of the United States, which has launched a new initiative to support the development and adoption of air taxi services across the country.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to be a part of the White House's air taxi program and to bring our electric aviation technology to cities across the U.S. next year.”

— JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby (Business Wire)

What’s next

Joby will continue testing and certifying its air taxi prototype over the next year in preparation for the launch of commercial operations in 2026 under the White House's new program.

The takeaway

The White House's air taxi initiative represents a significant step forward in the development of urban air mobility, with Joby's participation as a leading eVTOL company poised to bring emissions-free air transportation to cities across the United States in the coming years.