Joby Aviation has achieved a significant milestone by conducting manned flights of its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) preproduction prototype. This marks a crucial step in the development of the aircraft, as all prior test flights had been conducted remotely from the ground.
During these recent "pilot-on-board" flights, four experienced pilots were in control, performing various maneuvers, including vertical thrustborne hovers and transitions to forward semi-thrustborne flight. The primary objectives of these piloted flights are to collect essential data on pilot-control interfaces and the aircraft's handling characteristics. They are also instrumental in supporting the aircraft's ongoing certification process with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The upcoming piloted test flights will encompass a range of maneuvers, such as vertical takeoffs, acceleration to forward flight, runway centerline tracking, and deceleration for vertical landings on representative landing pads. These evaluations will contribute to both the certification of the Joby aircraft and the company's collaborations with the Department of Defense.
Joby's chief test pilot, James "Buddy" Denham, who possesses extensive experience in testing vertical-lift aircraft, leads these flights. Denham joined Joby Aviation in 2019 after retiring from the Naval Air Systems Command, where he focused on advanced flight controls and flight dynamics research, particularly for vertical-lift aircraft like the F-35B STOVL (short takeoff and vertical landing) aircraft. His contributions to aircraft carrier landing systems and flight control concepts have significantly enhanced landing precision, reduced pilot workload, and improved safety for various aircraft, including the F/A-18E/F/G and F-35C.
Reflecting on his role at Joby Aviation, Denham praised the aircraft's simplicity and elegance, highlighting the contrast with his previous experiences testing a wide range of aircraft, including the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter variants.