Joby Aviation has flown its electric vertical takeoff and landing air taxi between two U.S. airports for the first time, completing a piloted 12-minute journey from Marina (OAR) to Monterey (MRY) in California. The milestone demonstrated safe integration with other aircraft in FAA-controlled airspace while supporting Joby’s certification campaign and commercial readiness.

The flight lasted about 12 minutes over 10 nautical miles, including a five-minute hold pattern at Monterey for air traffic spacing. The piloted test involved vertical takeoff, wingborne flight transition, integration into controlled airspace, and a vertical landing.

The achievement marks the first time a piloted electric vertical takeoff and landing air taxi has flown between two public airports. It also demonstrated Joby’s ability to conduct mobile flight tests and manage ground support away from its base in Marina.

“Successfully flying from Marina to Monterey showcased operations of our aircraft integrated in the broader transportation network and further validated its performance to ensure we’re prepared for service on day one,” says Didier Papadopoulos, President of Aircraft OEM at Joby.

The tests provided data on human factors in operating at controlled airports and sequencing with other aircraft. Joby’s systems and pilot training adhered to the same ATC protocols as major airlines.

The flights also support FAA certification requirements for multi-airport operations. Joby is progressing toward launching commercial services in Los Angeles and New York following certification and its planned acquisition of Blade Air Mobility’s passenger business.