Joby Achieves Testing Landmark with Piloted Aircraft

Joby test pilot James “Buddy” Denham flying a fully transitioned Joby aircraft above the company’s facilities in Marina, California. Photo: Joby Aviation

Santa Cruz, CA – Local electric aviation pioneer Joby Aviation (NYSE:JOBY) has announced a significant breakthrough in its aircraft testing program, successfully completing multiple flights with a pilot onboard transitioning seamlessly between vertical takeoff and conventional cruise flight. This pivotal achievement, with the first pilot-controlled transition occurring on April 22, 2025, took place at Joby's flight test facility in Marina.

This unique capability allows Joby's electric air taxi to combine the vertical agility of a helicopter with the speed and efficiency of a fixed-wing aircraft, paving the way for rapid, direct passenger service. Joby Chief Test Pilot James “Buddy” Denham, a seasoned aviator with extensive experience, piloted the initial flight of the aircraft (N544JX), which was built at Joby's Marina production line.

Didier Papadopolous, President of Aircraft OEM at Joby, emphasized the importance of this milestone, stating it demonstrates strong confidence in the aircraft's performance as the company prepares for commercial operations in Dubai and anticipates FAA pilot testing. Joby has methodically progressed through extensive ground and air testing, including over 40,000 miles of test flights and numerous remote transitions, culminating in this routine demonstration of piloted transitions.

Denham lauded the aircraft's handling, noting that the complex transition felt surprisingly natural. This achievement marks a significant milestone and underscores Joby's commitment to developing a safe and efficient electric air taxi for the future of urban mobility.

Check out the awesome video they shared showing the process!

About Joby

Joby Aviation, Inc. (NYSE:JOBY) is a California-based transportation company developing an all-electric, vertical take-off and landing air taxi which it intends to operate as part of a fast, quiet, and convenient service in cities around the world. To learn more, visit www.jobyaviation.com.