Joby Aviation Sets New Milestone in Sustainable Aviation
A hydrogen-electric air taxi, developed by Joby Aviation, has completed a record-breaking 523-mile (nearly 842km) flight over California. This groundbreaking flight marks the first forward flight of a hydrogen-powered aircraft capable of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL).
Record-breaking achievement
The flight, conducted on June 24, surpassed the distance records set by Joby Aviation’s previous electric vehicles (EVs) by threefold. Impressively, the aircraft landed with 10% of its hydrogen fuel still remaining, indicating the potential for even longer flights in the future. Joby Aviation highlighted this achievement as a demonstration of “the potential for hydrogen to unlock emissions-free, regional journeys.” The only by-product of the flight was water, underscoring its environmental sustainability.
Transition from battery-electric to hydrogen-electric
Initially designed as a battery-operated vehicle, Joby Aviation’s air taxi features six rotors suitable for urban settings. After extensive testing at the company’s base in Marina, California, and over New York City, engineers transformed the electric aircraft into a hydrogen-electric model. This transformation involved adding a fuel tank capable of storing 40kg of liquid hydrogen and a hydrogen fuel cell system.
Aircraft functionality
The aircraft’s fuel cells convert hydrogen into heat, electricity, and water in the presence of oxygen. The electricity powers the aircraft’s rotors, while the water is released as waste. To ensure extra power during takeoff and landing, the aircraft also carries a smaller number of batteries. Joby Aviation plans to start selling its original battery-electric design in 2025, with the hydrogen-electric air taxi to follow later.
Progress in FAA certification process
Recently, Joby Aviation became the first electric VTOL aircraft developer to complete the third of five stages of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type certification process. During this stage, the FAA reviewed and approved Joby’s certification plans for the aircraft’s mechanical, structural, and electrical systems. The next stage will involve a comprehensive examination of the entire aircraft and all its systems.
Joby Aviation’s success in this flight and progress in the FAA certification process marks a significant step forward in the development and commercialization of sustainable aviation technology.