FutureFlight
Joby Takes First Step To Securing Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate
The company has begun the process to earn the FAA Part 135 air carrier certificate it needs to start eVTOL air taxi services by 2024, along with the required type and production certificates for its five-seat aircraft.
Joby Aviation S4 prototype
Joby Aviation's eVTOL aircraft will carry a pilot and up to four passengers when it begins commercial air taxi services in 2024. (Photo: Joby)

Joby Aero has started the process to secure the FAA Part 135 air carrier certificate it will need to begin planned air taxi operations with its four-passenger eVTOL aircraft. On July 29, the California-based company said that it is on track to secure this approval, along with type and production certificates for the model, in time to begin commercial services in the U.S. during 2024.

With the application for the air carrier certificate now filed, Joby expects to start the second of five stages required for approval during August when it submits additional materials and information to the FAA, including a full set of operating manuals. The next step will involve FAA inspectors visiting the company to evaluate its crew training sessions and witness flight operations first-hand. Joby believes it may be able to secure the air carrier certificate before the end of 2022.