Virgin Atlantic has unveiled plans to operate zero-emission electric air taxis on short-range journeys across the UK.
The airline has partnered with Joby Aviation, developer of electrical vertical take-off and landing air taxis, designed to carry a pilot and up to four passengers at speeds of up to 200 mph.
Joby’s electric air taxi uses six tilting propellers that allow it to take off and land vertically with a fraction of the noise produced by today’s helicopters.
The aircraft will be able to do rapid, back-to-back flights and is expected to be deployed on routes of up to 100 miles. Joby said it has completed thousands of test flights, including exhibition flights in New York City, Japan and Korea.
Journeys in the UK could include a 15-minute flight from Manchester Airport to Leeds, or an eight-minute journey from Heathrow Airport to Canary Wharf, instead of 80 minutes by car. Over time, Joby expects to have network of landing locations that offer rapid and convenient travel around cities and communities throughout the UK. It says prices will be comparable with existing premium ground ridesharing options at launch.
Virgin Atlantic hasn’t given a start date but in its Future of Flight action plan, published last year, the UK Government said there could be regular flying taxi services by 2028.
Passengers will be able to reserve a seat on a Joby aircraft through Virgin Atlantic’s app, website and other channels.
Virgin Atlantic CEO Shai Weiss said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Joby to bring short-haul, zero-emission flight to airports and cities throughout the UK. We look forward to working together to bring Joby’s service to the UK and to deliver greater connectivity for our customers.”
