Joby Aviation, a company focused on developing electric air taxis for commercial service, has completed a series of successful test flights in Korea, marking a significant step forward for the company and the country's urban air mobility initiatives.
As part of the K-UAM Grand Challenge—a program launched by Korea's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) in 2023—Joby became the first company to complete electric air taxi flights in the country. This initiative aims to foster the development and commercialization of air taxi services in Korea.
The week-long series of flights took place at the Goheung Aviation Test Center in South Jeolla Province, where Joby demonstrated its aircraft's performance under various flight conditions. The tests included fully wing-borne flight, showcasing the capability of Joby’s electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby Aviation, noted that the flights represent a significant milestone for the company as it prepares for future operations in Korea. “Our service has the potential to enhance connectivity in urban and rural areas alike, particularly in densely populated cities like Seoul, and in regions like Jeju Province, where terrain can complicate ground transportation,” Bevirt said.
Joby is part of the "K-UAM Dream Team," a consortium that also includes SK Telecom, Hanwha Systems, TMAP, and Korea Airports Corporation. The team's collaboration is focused on advancing the technology needed for safe and efficient air taxi operations, including flight control, traffic management, and vertiport systems.
Hyung Pil Jun, Assistant Minister of the Mobility and Motor Vehicles Bureau at MOLIT, commented on the broader significance of the K-UAM Grand Challenge. “This initiative highlights the potential of next-generation aviation capabilities by combining Joby’s eVTOL aircraft with Korean technological expertise in aviation management,” Jun said.
The test flights were completed ahead of a December 14 event, which will feature a demonstration of Joby’s aircraft’s quiet acoustic footprint. The event is expected to be attended by over 200 guests, including representatives from both Korean and U.S. government agencies.
In addition to the ongoing developments in Korea, Joby is advancing toward certification of its aircraft with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The company has also received airworthiness certifications for demonstration flights in Japan and the United States. Joby recently rolled out its fourth production prototype in Marina, California, as part of its efforts to meet regulatory requirements and scale its operations.
Joby’s electric air taxi is designed to carry a pilot and up to four passengers at speeds of up to 200 mph, offering a quieter and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional helicopter services.
