Joby Aviation, Inc. (NYSE:JOBY), a company developing electric air taxis for commercial passenger service, has signed a definitive agreement with Clay Lacy Aviation to install Southern California’s first electric air taxi charger at John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County, CA.
The company recently announced agreement marks a further milestone in the development of electric air taxis.
Joby’s Global Electric Aviation Charging System (GEACS)
The installation is part of Clay Lacy’s ambitious $100 million redevelopment of its fixed-based operator (FBO) terminal at SNA, slated for completion in mid-2025.
Key to this redevelopment is the integration of Joby’s Global Electric Aviation Charging System (GEACS), an advanced charging interface already operational at Joby’s flight test center in Marina, California, and Edwards Air Force Base.
GEACS ensures the safe and efficient operation of all electric aircraft currently under development, including Joby’s innovative and emissions-free air taxis.
The technology supports Joby aircraft on routes covering up to 100 miles, capable of transporting a pilot and four passengers at speeds of up to 200 mph.
This promises high-speed mobility with no in-flight emissions and a remarkably reduced noise footprint compared to traditional helicopters.
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Southern California Air Taxi Network
John Wayne Airport’s strategic inclusion in Joby’s Southern California air taxi network positions it as a pivotal node in the emerging landscape of electric air transportation.
Anticipated to be one of the first networks to launch in the U.S., this network promises to redefine regional travel.
In a move towards seamless airport experiences, Joby previously announced collaboration with Delta Air Lines in 2022.
This partnership aims to deliver hassle-free airport trips for customers across multiple locations, including Los Angeles.
Commitment from Industry Leaders
JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO of Joby Aviation, was upbeat about the collaboration with Clay Lacy Aviation, stating, “Today’s announcement marks a key moment on the path to delivering our air taxi service in the Greater Los Angeles area.”
Bevirt highlighted the importance of establishing the right infrastructure to support Joby’s future services, emphasizing the company’s commitment to sustainable aviation.
“The charging technology we have developed is optimized to support our whole industry, from air taxis delivering short-range city flights to more conventional electric aircraft flying longer distances,” added Bevirt.
Notably, Joby made the specifications for the universal charging interface publicly available in November 2023, contributing to the acceleration of the aviation industry’s transition to clean flight.
A Leap Forwards for Orange County
Scott Cutshall, SVP Strategy and Sustainability at Clay Lacy Aviation, echoed the commitment to sustainability, saying, “Clay Lacy has been committed to improving lives for our community, employees, and clients for over 50 years.”
He expressed excitement about installing Southern California’s first air taxi charger, anticipating greater convenience for the Orange County community without additional noise or emissions.
The collaboration aligns with Clay Lacy’s broader sustainability goals, as the all-new FBO development at John Wayne Airport aspires to be the first globally to receive Gold certification from the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure (ISI).
This certification underlines Clay Lacy Aviation’s dedication to leadership in sustainability within the aviation industry.
Conclusion
Last year, Joby achieved a historic milestone by completing the first-ever flight of an electric air taxi in New York City.
This event coincided with the city’s commitment to electrify the iconic Downtown Manhattan Heliport, showcasing Joby’s influence in target launch markets.
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