Joby completes UAE’s first crewed eVTOL flight, advancing Dubai’s air taxi plans
Joby Aviation, in partnership with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai, has successfully completed the first ever crewed electric aerial taxi flight between two different locations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The inaugural electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aerial taxi flight departed Dubai Jetman Helipad in Margham on November 16, 2025, and traveled for 17 minutes to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). The landmark event took place just one day before the Dubai Airshow 2025 officially began.
This makes Joby the first company in the world to complete a crewed eVTOL aircraft flight between two distinct points within the UAE, according to a statement published by the UAE government.
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Joby Aviation successfully conduct the first crewed electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aerial taxi flight between Margham and Al Maktoum International Airport. RTA also announced 60% completion of the first aerial taxi… pic.twitter.com/rICQFCuWuA— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) November 16, 2025
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), said the flight represents a “major step forward in the transition towards safer, more efficient, and more sustainable modes of transport”, paving the way for the commercial launch of aerial taxi services in 2026.
Preparation for passenger flights
Joby plans to increase flight test operations in Dubai and begin carrying passengers using its electric aerial taxi starting from 2026.
Once that happens, the aerial taxi will provide a unique new service for both residents and visitors in Dubai, offering a fast and convenient way to travel between major cities across the country.
The trip from Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah is anticipated to take around 10 minutes, in contrast to approximately 45 minutes by car. The service will also enhance integration with various public transport modes and individual mobility options, such as electric scooters and bicycles.
A closer look at Joby’s air taxi capabilities
Joby’s air taxi has vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capabilities and runs on electric power, which produces no harmful emissions during operation. This taxi features six rotors and four battery packs, allowing it to travel up to 160 kilometers, with a maximum speed of 320 kilometers per hour.
The vehicle can carry four passengers plus the pilot, and it operates more quietly than traditional helicopters. It is designed for city use, taking advantage of its vertical takeoff and landing ability, which eliminates the need for horizontal space at stations.
To support the planned operations of this aircraft, Dubai is currently working on expanding the necessary ground infrastructure for aerial mobility. Agreements with Emaar Properties, Atlantis The Royal, and Wasl Asset Management Group will lead to the construction of more vertiports to support the aerial taxi service.
These new vertiports will increase the total number planned for 2026 to four, including one near Dubai International Airport. Collectively, these vertiports will establish the groundwork for the initial route network for the electric aerial taxi service.
AeroTime is covering the Dubai Airshow 2025 live from the show floor, delivering breaking news and exclusive insights throughout the week. Drop by booth #294 to meet our team during the event. The post Joby completes UAE’s first crewed eVTOL flight, advancing Dubai’s air taxi plans appeared first on AeroTime.
Joby Aviation, in partnership with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai, has successfully completed the first ever crewed electric aerial taxi…
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