Air taxis: the latest on the flying electric cars bringing the Jetsons dream to life
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Summary
Several companies developing electric aircraft capable of vertical take-offs and landings (eVTOL) have made progress in 2023 towards launching commercial services.
California-based Joby Aviation intends to become the first company to offer an air taxi service in the UK, while its rival, Archer Aviation plans to launch an on-demand service in LA in 2026.
Beta Technologies provided its ALIA aircraft to Air New Zealand for mail delivery, while Lilium sold 50 jets to Saudi Arabia’s largest airline.
Airbus-backed Wisk settled a lawsuit with Archer over patent infringement, and Stellantis announced a $150m deal with Archer to produce its Midnight aircraft.
Meanwhile, Delta Air Lines invested $60m in Joby Aviation, which is seeking FAA approval to carry passengers as part of a commercial air taxi service.