Virgin Atlantic partners with Joby Aviation to launch electric air taxis in the UK

Virgin Atlantic and California‑based Joby Aviation have signed a binding commercial agreement at the Farnborough International Airshow, making Virgin the exclusive airline partner for Joby’s electric air‑taxi service in the United Kingdom. The partnership will allow Virgin customers to book eVTOL trips through the airline’s website and mobile app, starting with hubs at London Heathrow and Manchester Airport.

Initial routes are planned between Manchester and Leeds (about 15 minutes) and between Heathrow and Central London (as little as 8 minutes), dramatically cutting travel times compared with road transport. Joby will retain responsibility for aircraft operation, route management and securing certification from the UK Civil Aviation Authority, while Virgin will support infrastructure integration and customer acquisition. The eVTOL aircraft is still pending regulatory approval, and the deal builds on Joby’s existing relationship with Delta Air Lines, which holds a 49 % stake in the company.

“​This agreement marks an exciting next chapter in our partnership with Joby,” said Corneel Koster, CEO of Virgin Atlantic.