Joby Aviation, Inc. (NYSE:JOBY), a leading developer of electric air taxis, has completed its first FAA-certified static load test on a major aerostructure. This milestone marks a significant step toward type certification as the company advances its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for commercial passenger service.
The test, conducted in Santa Cruz, California, focused on the aircraft’s tail structure. Joby engineers applied loads exceeding those expected during flight, meeting rigorous FAA standards under direct supervision. This “for-credit” test validates both the FAA-conforming tail structure and the testing protocols outlined in Joby’s certification documents.
Didier Papadopoulos, President of Aircraft OEM at Joby, emphasized the achievement: “Completing for-credit static load testing on a major aircraft structure marks an important step toward certification of the Joby aircraft, and we’re very pleased with the results. This milestone represents years of dedication from our engineering, testing, certification, and manufacturing teams.”
Joby’s vertically integrated approach to aircraft development enables in-house design, production, and testing of critical components, ensuring rapid innovation and efficiency.
Designed to carry a pilot and up to four passengers at speeds reaching 200 mph, Joby’s electric air taxi aims to revolutionize urban mobility. Its quiet operation—significantly quieter than helicopters—and zero operational emissions highlight its potential for sustainable, high-speed transportation.
This achievement underscores Joby’s progress toward FAA type certification and brings the company closer to launching its commercial air taxi services globally.
