Joby Aviation has achieved a pivotal milestone by initiating power-on testing on its first FAA-conforming aircraft, a critical step toward Type Inspection Authorization (TIA). This event signifies the start of extensive hardware and software integration tests, paving the way for subsequent “for credit” flight testing with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) test pilots. This phase is a fundamental component of the final stage in the rigorous FAA Type Certification process, bringing Joby closer to its goal of launching commercial passenger service with its electric air taxi.
According to Didier Papadopoulos, President of Aircraft OEM at Joby, this subsystem testing represents the convergence of over a decade of engineering, manufacturing process refinement, and certification strategy into a single physical asset. It validates the company’s ability to design a safe aircraft and produce it reliably through its established quality management system. This first TIA-ready aircraft has been manufactured to precisely match the intended type design, utilizing FAA-conforming components that are built to approved designs and inspected by FAA Designated Airworthiness Representatives.
The upcoming flight test campaign, expected to begin with Joby pilots later this year, will lead to FAA pilots taking the controls in 2026. The TIA testing will be a comprehensive validation process conducted side-by-side with the FAA. It encompasses performance validation of the aircraft’s range, speed, and energy management; thorough evaluation of flight controls and handling qualities across all flight regimes, including vertical takeoff, wingborne cruise, and hover; and verification of operational procedures, maintenance manuals, pilot training curriculum, and system functionality.
The data gathered throughout the TIA phase will be instrumental for the FAA’s final determination on granting Type Certification. This approval is the essential prerequisite for Joby to commence commercial operations, marking the culmination of its path to commercialization.
