Joby Aviation Conducts First eVTOL Flights from JFK to Manhattan

Joby Aviation has conducted the first point-to-point electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft demonstration flights in New York City, linking John F. Kennedy International Airport with Manhattan heliports in under 10 minutes.

The all-electric eVTOL aircraft, resembling a giant battery-powered drone, carried a pilot during the tests, which began last Friday and continued through a one-week campaign this week. The flights connected JFK with sites including the Downtown Skyport near Wall Street, West 30th Street heliport and East 34th Street heliport. The vehicle takes off vertically like a helicopter before tilting its propellers for forward flight. It seats five, including the pilot, and produces zero operating emissions while operating far quieter than traditional helicopters.

The demonstrations are part of the Federal Aviation Administration's eVTOL Integration Pilot Program, selected by the U.S. Department of Transportation in March. The initiative tests advanced aviation for urban air taxi services, regional transport, cargo, emergency operations, autonomous flight and offshore energy support. Joby is collaborating with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey,...