A cutting-edge announcement has emerged from a pioneering company in the electrical vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft industry.
This company, with its sights set on revolutionizing passenger air travel, has unveiled plans to establish its inaugural major aircraft production facility in Dayton, Ohio – a city steeped in aviation history as the birthplace of flight.
Dayton, Ohio is the hometown of the Wright Brothers, the visionary pioneers who not only invented the first powered aircraft in the United States but flew it as well. Their historic journey into the unknown skies began right here in Dayton, where they also founded the nation’s first airplane factory in 1910.
Now, California-based company, Joby Aviation, is preparing to establish a pioneering production facility for eVTOL aircraft at the Dayton International Airport. This facility will have the remarkable capacity to manufacture up to 500 aircraft annually, giving wings to a new era of aviation in Dayton. In the process, it is expected to generate up to 2,000 new employment opportunities, providing a significant boost to the local economy.
This ambitious project by Joby Aviation comes with a substantial financial commitment. They have pledged to invest as much as $500 million in this venture, bolstered by state incentives and potential financial support in the form of a loan from the U.S. Department of Energy.
Founder and CEO of Joby, JoeBen Bevirt said, “We’re building the future of aviation right where it all started, in Dayton, Ohio. The Wright Brothers harnessed revolutionary technology of their time to open up the skies, and we intend to do the same—this time, bringing quiet and emissions-free flight that we hope will have an equally profound impact on our world.”
At the heart of this endeavor is Joby Aviation’s pioneering production aircraft, designed to transport not just the pilot but also up to four passengers. These aircraft are engineered for speed, boasting the capability to reach speeds of up to 200 mph (approximately 322 kph). Furthermore, they offer a maximum range of 100 miles, making them ideal for short to medium-distance travel within urban environments.
Notably, these eVTOL aircraft are designed to operate with a “revolutionary quiet noise profile,” ensuring minimal disruption to the tranquility of urban settings.
Joby Aviation’s aspirations extend far beyond the confines of a single production facility. The company envisions a future in which these advanced aircraft become integral to urban transportation networks worldwide, redefining the concept of urban mobility. Their ambitious timeline aims for the commencement of aerial ride-sharing services in cities across the globe as early as 2025. The idea is to partner with other transportation companies, such as Delta and Uber.
Joby Aviation to Hire Soon
Joby Aviation is planning to start hiring in the coming months, with most of the beginning roles focused on building its Ohio facility. The initial focus will be on the construction and scaling of the state-of-the-art production facility, as well as the precision machining of components that will be integrated into Joby’s existing low-volume production line in California. Those looking to apply for a position at their Ohio facility can do so by clicking on their website, www.jobyinohio.com.
It’s important to note that while the company’s production facility will be in Dayton, Ohio, its headquarters will remain in California. The company remains committed to California’s innovative ecosystem, with plans to expand its presence across three Northern California locations, providing 150 open positions to passionate professionals eager to contribute to the future of transportation.
Furthermore, Joby enjoys the continuous support of Toyota, a long-term investor in the company. Toyota has collaborated closely with Joby in designing and launching their Pilot Production Line in Marina, California. They will also continue to provide invaluable guidance as the company scales its air taxi production in its new Midwest home.
Dayton also happens to be home to the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratories (AFRL), which has also played an instrumental role in supporting Joby Aviation’s pioneering development efforts.
Joby CEO Bevirt said, “Our partnership with Ohio is a great example of how successful public-private partnership amongst industry, local, state and federal government can bring important new technology to life.”
JobsOhio President J. P. Nauseef added, “This will mark the largest aviation job creation deal in Ohio history. Today, we continue Ohio’s historic legacy as the past – the present – and the future of aviation innovation and further affirm we are in the midst of an economic renaissance of the American Midwest.”
What are your thoughts? Please comment below and share this news!
True Activist / Report a typo
