For the first time ever, flying taxis have taken flight in front of a US audience, as two California-based companies—Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation—demonstrated their electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles. The public debut occurred at the California International Airshow in Monterey County, marking a significant milestone in the development of urban air mobility.
On a clear Saturday afternoon, both companies showcased 10-minute flight demonstrations that impressed the crowd, despite the unusually quiet operation. Unlike traditional aircraft, the eVTOLs emitted only a soft hum, blending seamlessly with the surrounding city noises.
“This is the future,” an announcer told the audience. “Try to listen to it. It will be a challenge.”
The near-silent operation is a key selling point for these innovative flying taxis. Joby and Archer aim to provide ride-sharing services in dense urban areas, but unlike cars or conventional helicopters, these eVTOLs are all-electric and zero-emission, offering an environmentally friendly alternative for urban transportation.
Noise reduction is crucial for public acceptance, along with safety. “It almost sounds like a whoosh,” said Didier Papadopoulos, Joby’s president of aircraft OEM, during the airshow. “And that allows it to blend in with the cities and the noise.”
However, achieving widespread adoption involves more than public approval. EVTOLs are capital-intensive and highly regulated. Both Joby and Archer must undergo extensive testing and acquire multiple certifications from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to ensure their aircraft meet safety and airworthiness standards.
Joby Aviation, founded in 2009, aims to carry its first passengers by 2026 in Dubai. Archer, a younger company established seven years ago, has announced a partnership with the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics to transport VIPs and fans between key venues, including the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and Los Angeles International Airport.
While an Archer Aviation spokesperson was unavailable for comment over the weekend, both companies’ demonstrations signal a promising future for urban air mobility in the US.
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