Joby Aviation Commences Testing of First FAA-Conforming Air Taxi
Joby Aviation has reached a significant milestone on its journey towards commercial certification. On March 11, 2026, the company announced the commencement of flight testing for its first FAA-conforming aircraft for Type Inspection Authorization (TIA). The electric air taxi, registered as N547JX, marks a pivotal step in introducing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to commercial passenger service.
This aircraft, unlike previous prototypes, has been constructed according to FAA Designated Engineering Representative-approved designs and has been endorsed by FAA Designated Airworthiness Representatives. Joby Aviation’s vertically integrated manufacturing approach has facilitated the in-house design, engineering, testing, and manufacturing of most aircraft components. This reduces dependence on external suppliers and accelerates development timelines.
The initial testing is being carried out by Joby’s own pilots at their Marina, California facility. This sets the stage for FAA pilots to conduct the stringent TIA testing required to validate the aircraft for commercial service later in 2026. The announcement follows closely on the heels of Joby being chosen to partake in the White House-endorsed eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP). This program will permit mature aircraft designs to initiate early operations across the U.S. within the year.
The aircraft is the pioneer of a fleet currently under production to support TIA testing. This signifies the final phase in the FAA’s aircraft-level evaluation process. In 2025, Joby completed an expanded manufacturing facility in Marina and confirmed the onset of propeller blade production in Ohio. The company plans to ramp up production to four aircraft per month by 2027.
Source: Joby Aviation