Joby Aviation and Beta Technologies told investors they expect to begin revenue-generating commercial flights through the Federal Aviation Administration’s eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP). The flights would carry paying passengers in experimental, non-certified aircraft before the companies receive full type certification. FAA guidance provides a legal pathway for these for-hire operations, which could mark an early step into the commercial market.
The companies discussed the possibility on their recent third-quarter earnings calls. Joby’s CEO said the program could allow mature eVTOL companies to begin passenger flights ahead of formal certification. The eIPP partners with state and local governments to test eVTOL operations and gather data to help shape future advanced air mobility regulations.