Virgin Atlantic plans to set up UK electric air taxi network

Zero-emissions air taxi services in the UK have moved a step closer following the announcement of a tie-up between Virgin Atlantic Airlines and Toyota-backed electric aircraft maker Joby Aviation.

The companies plan to set up air taxi operations using Joby’s electric aircraft, based out of hubs at Heathrow and Manchester airports. And the partners want the service to offer prices that are comparable with “existing premium ground ride-sharing options”.

The aircraft will be piloted – they are not autonomous craft. The timing of the project is unclear - the start of the service depends on the aircraft being approved by the UK Civil Aviation Authority.

The partnership builds on an existing agreement between California-based Joby and Delta Air Lines, which owns a 49% stake in Virgin Atlantic, to launch a similar service in the US.

The partnership aims to offer short-range journeys across the UK, starting with regional and city connections from Virgin Atlantic’s hubs at Heathrow and Manchester. Virgin Atlantic customers will be able to reserve a seat on Joby’s aircraft through Virgin Atlantic’s app, website and other channels. The airline will also work with regulators to get the aircraft approved and develop landing infrastructure at key airports.

The Joby electric air taxi is designed to carry a pilot and up to four passengers at speeds of up to 200 mph.

The aircraft uses six tilting propellers that allow it to take off and land vertically far quieter than a helicopter. The aircraft is optimised for routes of up to 100 miles. Joby has completed thousands of test flights, including exhibition flights in New York City, Japan and Korea.

Journeys in the UK could include a 15-minute flight from Manchester Airport to Leeds, or an 8-minute journey from Heathrow Airport to Canary Wharf. Over time, Joby wants to build a network of landing locations that offer rapid and convenient travel around cities and communities throughout the UK.

Joby exhibited its aircraft at the 2024 Farnborough Airshow, and has formally applied to have it validated for use by the CAA.

Toyota has invested $894 million in helping Joby develop and build the aircraft. In 2023, the two companies signed a long-term agreement for Toyota to supply key powertrain and actuation components, and Toyota engineers work with the Joby team in California.