Joby Aviation, a leader in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft development, has significantly expanded its pilot manufacturing facility in Marina, California. The facility now spans 435,500 square feet, effectively doubling its previous size and enhancing its production capacity. Once fully operational, the expanded facility is projected to produce 24 aircraft annually, equating to nearly one aircraft every two weeks. This expansion is a strategic move as Joby aims to commence commercial eVTOL operations by early next year.
The Marina facility is not solely dedicated to manufacturing; it also plays a crucial role in supporting federal certification processes, conducting ground and flight testing, providing pilot training, and performing aircraft maintenance. This comprehensive approach ensures that Joby’s eVTOL aircraft meet stringent safety and performance standards before entering commercial service.
In addition to the Marina expansion, Joby is progressing with plans for a larger manufacturing facility in Dayton, Ohio. This forthcoming plant is designed to produce up to 500 aircraft per year once construction is complete. The Dayton facility underscores Joby’s commitment to scaling production to meet anticipated demand for urban air mobility solutions.
A key factor in Joby’s manufacturing advancements is its partnership with Toyota. The automotive giant has invested significantly in Joby, including a recent $500 million investment, bringing its total investment to approximately $900 million. Toyota’s expertise in manufacturing processes and quality control is instrumental in helping Joby establish efficient and scalable production lines for its eVTOL aircraft.
Joby’s eVTOL aircraft are designed to transport a pilot and up to four passengers at speeds of up to 200 mph, offering a quiet and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional urban transportation methods. The company has made substantial progress in flight testing, including successful piloted flights that demonstrated the aircraft’s ability to transition from vertical takeoff to horizontal flight and back. These milestones are critical as Joby moves closer to obtaining necessary certifications from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other regulatory bodies.
Looking ahead, Joby plans to launch its commercial air taxi service in Dubai in early 2026, followed by operations in a U.S. city. The choice of Dubai as the initial launch city aligns with the emirate’s proactive approach to adopting innovative transportation solutions and its supportive regulatory environment for emerging technologies.
The expansion of the Marina facility and the development of the Dayton plant are pivotal steps in Joby’s strategy to meet the growing demand for efficient, sustainable urban air mobility solutions. By enhancing its production capabilities and leveraging strategic partnerships, Joby is positioning itself at the forefront of the emerging eVTOL industry, aiming to transform urban transportation in the near future.
