Joby Aviation Inc. (JOBY), a California-based company developing electric air taxis for commercial passenger service, announced that it has partnered with Virgin Atlantic, a premium long-haul UK airline, to launch Joby's air taxi service in the UK. The partnership builds on an existing agreement between Joby and Delta Air Lines - which owns a 49 percent stake in Virgin Atlantic - to launch service in the US and UK.
The collaboration aims to connect regions and cities, starting with Virgin Atlantic's hubs at Heathrow and Manchester Airport. Virgin Atlantic will play a key role in promoting the service, engaging with regulators, and aiding in the development of landing infrastructure.
Joby's electric air taxi is designed to carry a pilot and up to four passengers at speeds of up to 200 mph and the partnership means Virgin Atlantic customers will be able to reserve a seat on Joby's aircraft through Virgin Atlantic's app, website and other channels.
According to the company, 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, instead of 80 minutes by car. Over time, Joby expects to build out a network of landing locations that offer rapid and convenient travel around cities and communities throughout the UK. Joby expects to offer prices that are comparable with existing premium ground ridesharing options at launch.
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