The future of travel with air taxi service in the UK is on its way, offering zero-emission journeys at speeds up to 200 mph.
Virgin Atlantic has confirmed that in concert California-based Joby Aviation the electric air taxi passenger service will soon be operational.
The aim is to offer seamless, zero-emission, short-range journeys across the UK, starting with regional and city connections from Virgin Atlantic’s hubs at Heathrow and Manchester Airport.
Virgin Atlantic will market the service to their customers, engaging regulators alongside Joby and helping to build support for the development of landing infrastructure at key airports.
It will be able to carry a pilot and up to four passengers at speeds of up to 200 mph. Virgin Atlantic customers will be able to reserve a seat on Joby’s aircraft through Virgin Atlantic’s app, website and other channels.
Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, said:
“As a leader in sustainability and with innovation firmly in our DNA, we are delighted to be partnering with Joby to bring short-haul, zero-emission flight to airports and cities throughout the UK. Our strategic partnership combines Joby’s expertise in design, engineering and technology with the power of Virgin Atlantic’s brand and award-winning customer experience. We look forward to working together to bring Joby’s service to the UK and to deliver greater connectivity for our customers.”
JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby, commented:
“Virgin Atlantic’s commitment to delighting its customers is unparalleled and we couldn’t imagine a better partner to work with in the UK. Together, we are committed to delivering faster options for mobility across the country, including for Virgin Atlantic and Delta customers as they head to the airport or move between UK towns and cities.”
Joby’s electric air taxi has six tilting propellers that allow it to take off and land vertically with a fraction of the noise produced by today’s helicopters. The aircraft is optimized for rapid, back-to-back flights and is expected to be available on routes of up to 100 miles. Joby has completed thousands of test flights, including exhibition flights in New York City, Japan and Korea.
Short 15-minute flights from Manchester Airport to Leeds could become commonplace, or an 8-minute journey from Heathrow Airport to Canary Wharf, could be a good alternative to an 80-minute journey by car.
Joby expects to build a network of landing locations that offer rapid and convenient travel around cities and communities throughout the UK with fares comparable to existing premium ground ridesharing options at launch.
For more information visit www.virginatlantic.com