Joby, ANA to launch 100 electric air taxis across Japan

ANA Holdings (ANA HD) and California-based Joby Aviation have announced a major expansion of their partnership to roll out electric air taxi services across Japan.

The companies revealed on Tuesday (August 5, 2025), that they plan to deploy over 100 of Joby’s eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft through a new joint venture.

The air taxi services will launch in Tokyo and gradually expand to other major cities.

The initiative aims to revolutionise urban transport by introducing fast, clean, and quiet aerial travel that eases road congestion and slashes travel times.

Joby’s aircraft can carry a pilot and four passengers at speeds up to 200 mph (320 km/h), taking off like a helicopter before transitioning to fixed-wing flight.

Designed for quiet operation and zero emissions, the aircraft offers a sustainable and noise-friendly alternative for urban areas.

A typical flight can reduce travel time from an hour by car to just minutes by air.

The collaboration extends beyond just aircraft deployment.

ANA HD and Joby plan to co-develop the full infrastructure needed to support air taxi services — this includes vertiports, maintenance hubs, pilot training programs, and safety protocols.

They also aim to coordinate closely with national and local governments, and corporate partners such as Toyota Motor Corporation, a key investor in Joby.

As a major milestone, Joby will showcase its aircraft with a special ANA livery at EXPO 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, from October 1 to 13.

The demonstrations will feature piloted flights including vertical takeoffs, transitions to wing-borne flight, and landings at a specially designated area in western Osaka City.

“Our expanded partnership with Joby, a company with exceptional technology and vision, represents a pivotal step forward,” said Koji Shibata, President and CEO of ANA HD. 

“Air taxi service will directly contribute to addressing Japan’s urban transportation difficulties, ultimately enhancing regional exchange and providing a new, efficient means of travel.”

Joby CEO and founder JoeBen Bevirt echoed this sentiment:
“Where ancient wisdom, legendary craftsmanship and soaring ambition converge – that’s Japan. And that makes it an extraordinary launchpad for redefining the future of air mobility,” he said.

“Together with ANA, we’re setting a foundation to deliver Joby aircraft and build an entire air transport ecosystem woven into Japan’s vibrant cities.”

Toyota has also invested over $900 million in the eVTOL developer.