Delta Air Lines has announced a new partnership with Joby Aviation, a US-based developer and manufacturer of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. As a result of the agreement, both companies will work on the implementation of eVTOL services in different cities.
According to a press release by the airline, its initial investment will reach 60 million dollars. However, Delta envisions a possible total investment of up to 200 million as the joint programme progresses and achieves its goals.
Through the partnership, the airline’s customers will be able to access a differentiated urban air transport service between their homes and airports. The project envisages that the first Joby Aviation-built eVTOL operations will take place in New York and Los Angeles. Delta currently maintains a significant presence in both American cities.
According to the official announcement, the agreement will be mutually exclusive in the United States and the United Kingdom for five years after its commercial launch, with the possibility of extending that period.
“Delta always looks forward and embraces opportunities to lead the future”, said Ed Bastian, the company’s CEO. “This is a groundbreaking opportunity for Delta to deliver a time-saving, uniquely premium home-to-airport solution for customers in key markets we have been investing and innovating in for many years”, he added.
“We share Delta’s unwavering commitment to delivering seamless and sustainable journeys to customers”, commented JoeBen Bevirt, co-founder and CEO of Joby Aviation. “Their history of innovation, along with their vast operational expertise and leadership on climate change, make them incredible partners for Joby, and it’s an honor to be working alongside them”, he added.
The Joby Aviation eVTOL
The aircraft is designed to carry a single pilot and up to four passengers. According to the company, it will have a range of up to 150 miles (240 kilometres) per battery charge. It will reach a speed of up to 200 miles per hour (320 kilometres per hour).
In May this year, the company received its Air Carrier Certificate (Part 135) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The rating, part of Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, allows for charter air service operations. It is one of three approvals required to launch commercial operations. The other two ratings required are the Type Certificate and the Production Certificate.
See also: Department of Defense bets on Joby eVTOL
