Joby Aviation, Inc. (NYSE:JOBY) saw its stock jump 6.75% after announcing the successful completion of piloted, wingborne vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) flights in Dubai, a key step in the company’s path to launching commercial operations.
The electric air taxi manufacturer delivered its first aircraft to the United Arab Emirates under a strategic collaboration with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, and the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority. The milestone aligns with Joby’s broader go-to-market plan, which includes direct operations, aircraft sales, and regional alliances.
The first piloted test flights were attended by His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai’s RTA, reinforcing the city’s focus on advanced urban air mobility solutions.
“The air taxi will introduce a new premium service for residents and visitors seeking smooth, fast, and safe travel to key destinations across the city,” Al Tayer said.
Joby is currently building out vertiport infrastructure across several major locations in Dubai, including Dubai International Airport (DXB), Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and Downtown Dubai. The company’s electric aircraft, which can carry a pilot and four passengers at speeds up to 200 mph, is expected to dramatically shorten intra-city travel. For instance, a flight from DXB to Palm Jumeirah will take approximately 12 minutes, compared to a 45-minute drive by car.
Joby plans to launch commercial passenger flights in 2026, supported by its extensive flight testing program — which includes hot-weather trials at Edwards Air Force Base and over 40,000 miles of airborne testing.