Virgin Atlantic and Joby are bringing flying taxis to the UK

Core Insights - Joby Aviation and Virgin Atlantic have announced a partnership to introduce flying taxis in the UK, aiming to revolutionize urban transportation [1][6] - The air taxis are designed for short-haul flights, capable of carrying up to four passengers at speeds of 200 miles per hour for distances up to 100 miles [2][6] - Joby plans to establish a network of vertiports across the UK, with initial pricing expected to align with premium ride-sharing services [2] Company Partnerships - Joby has previously partnered with Delta Air Lines, which holds a 49% stake in Virgin Atlantic, to utilize air taxis for airport transportation in the US and UK [3] - The collaboration with Virgin Atlantic is seen as a strategic move to enhance customer experience and sustainability in air travel [3][4] Regulatory Environment - The UK has a Future of Flight Action Plan that aims to have the first electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles (eVTOLs) operational by 2026, although regulatory hurdles remain [4] - In the US, the Federal Aviation Administration has cleared Joby's air taxis for flight, with plans to launch services in New York City and Los Angeles by the end of this year [5]