Joby Aviation $JOBY ( ▲ 0.7% ) is gaining altitude in premarket trading after announcing that its electric air taxis will soon be bookable through the Uber $UBER ( ▼ 0.53% ) app in Dubai. The companies plan to roll out the service later this year, marking one of the most concrete steps yet toward commercial urban air mobility.
Joby shares jumped more than 6% on the news, as investors bet the long-promised air taxi future may finally be taking shape.
From black cars to flying cars
According to the announcement, booking a Joby air taxi through Uber won’t just be about the flight. Riders will also receive Uber Black pickup and drop-off service, creating a seamless end-to-end premium travel experience.
Dubai has positioned itself as an early adopter of futuristic transport infrastructure, making it a natural launch market. But before any passengers lift off, Joby must secure certification from UAE regulators.
Authorities previously indicated certification could come in the third quarter, though earlier company guidance suggested passenger flights might begin in late 2025 or early 2026, meaning timelines have already shifted once.
Certification is the real runway
While Dubai may get the first takeoff, Joby’s progress in the United States has been slower. The company entered the final phase of FAA certification last year and is expected to provide updates when it reports fourth-quarter earnings.
Regulatory approval remains the biggest hurdle between concept and commercialization. Without it, the air taxi vision stays grounded.
A deeper Uber alliance
The Dubai launch signals an expansion of Joby’s partnership with Uber. Previously, Uber said it would integrate Joby’s Blade helicopter and seaplane offerings into its app.
If successful, the collaboration could transform Uber from a ground transportation platform into a multi-layered mobility network spanning cars, helicopters, seaplanes, and now electric vertical takeoff aircraft.
For now, investors are watching one key question: will air taxis finally move from demo flights to paying passengers?