Fri Mar 21 05:00:00 UTC 2025: **Virgin Atlantic and Joby Aviation Partner to Bring Electric Air Taxis to the UK**
LONDON, UK – March 16, 2025 – Virgin Atlantic and Joby Aviation today announced a partnership to launch Joby’s all-electric air taxi service in the UK. This collaboration will offer customers zero-emission, short-haul flights between UK cities and airports, starting with connections from Heathrow and Manchester.
The partnership builds upon an existing agreement between Joby and Delta Air Lines (Virgin Atlantic’s 49% owner) for US and UK service. Virgin Atlantic will actively support Joby’s UK market entry, marketing the service to its customers, assisting with regulatory approvals, and developing necessary airport infrastructure.
Joby’s air taxi, capable of carrying a pilot and four passengers at speeds up to 200 mph, will be bookable via Virgin Atlantic’s app and website. Potential routes include a 15-minute flight from Manchester Airport to Leeds, and an 8-minute trip from Heathrow to Canary Wharf. Joby anticipates pricing comparable to premium ground ride-sharing services.
Shai Weiss, Virgin Atlantic CEO, emphasized the partnership’s alignment with the airline’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. JoeBen Bevirt, Joby’s CEO, highlighted Virgin Atlantic as an ideal partner, mirroring the successful collaboration with Delta.
Joby’s aircraft, featuring six tilting propellers for quiet vertical take-off and landing, has undergone extensive testing. The company expects to establish a network of landing locations across the UK, providing quick and convenient travel options. The partnership is initially exclusive to the UK market for at least five years after commercial launch.
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