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3h ago

Joby Flies First Crewed eVTOL Between UAE Sites as Dubai’s DXB Vertiport Reaches 60% Completion

Officials target a 2026 launch contingent on certification.

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Dubai completes the first crewed eVTOL air taxi flight as RTA confirms journey times, vertiport locations and 320 kmph aircraft specifications ahead of 2026 launch
Joby Aviation is playing a leading role in the rise of the UAE's flying taxi sector. Dubai has successfully completed the region’s first test flight of the Joby Aerial Taxi. Conducted through a collaboration between the Roads and Transport Authority and Joby Aviation, the test flight marks a major step toward launching full operations next year. The all-electric aerial taxi represents a new leap in eco-friendly urban mobility — reducing travel times, enhancing quality of life, and advancing sustainable development. This pioneering initiative is part of the UAE’s broader vision to lead the world in innovation and the deployment of advanced technologies. Our nation's skies have opened to new possibilities, and the best is yet to come. Photo: Joby Aviation
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Overview

  • The piloted eVTOL flew 17 minutes from the Dubai Jetman Helipad in Margham to Al Maktoum International Airport, marking the UAE’s first crewed flight between two distinct locations.
  • Dubai’s RTA said the DXB-adjacent vertiport developed by Skyports has hit 60% completion and spans about 3,100 square metres across four floors with capacity for roughly 42,000 landings and 170,000 passengers annually.
  • Three additional vertiports have been agreed with Emaar, Atlantis The Royal, and Wasl for sites at Zabeel/Dubai Mall, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina to form the initial four-vertiport network planned for 2026.
  • RTA and Joby describe commercial service as a 2026 target subject to regulatory approvals, with Joby progressing through the final phase of FAA type certification.
  • Planned routes aim to cut trip times, with Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah expected to take around 10 minutes; Joby’s aircraft seats four plus a pilot, offers up to 160 km range and 320 km/h top speed, and produces zero operational emissions.