California, US – Joby Aviation has set a new milestone in urban air mobility after completing the first-ever airport-to-airport flight by a piloted electric air taxi in the United States.
On August 15, the eVTOL aircraft flew from Marina Municipal Airport (OAR) to Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) in California. The 18.5 km journey took just 12 minutes, marking the first time an electric air taxi operated between two public airports under FAA oversight.
The flight is being hailed as a breakthrough for the air taxi industry, showing that such aircraft can safely integrate into real-world airport operations alongside commercial planes. Joby’s aircraft handled air traffic communications, ground logistics, and safety protocols, proving its readiness for commercial use.
The achievement boosts confidence in the sector, with industry experts calling it a step closer to on-demand city-to-airport flights. It also strengthens arguments for developing vertiports and dedicated aerial routes in cities worldwide.
For Joby, the successful flight demonstrates that air taxis are moving beyond experimental stages and closer to becoming a practical solution for urban travel.
