Joby Expands Manufacturing with New Ohio Factory as it Pursues FAA Approval

• The new Ohio facility is Joby's third manufacturing location and second in Ohio, more than doubling the company's total manufacturing footprint
• Joby plans to double production capacity to four eVTOL aircraft per month by 2027, supported by $500 million in funding from Toyota
• Electric air taxi companies including Joby are racing for FAA certification in 2026 to begin commercial operations with airlines, government entities, and defense partners

Joby Aviation Expands Manufacturing Footprint Ahead of FAA Certification Push

Key Developments:

Joby Aviation acquired a 700,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Dayton, Ohio, more than doubling its total manufacturing footprint. This marks the company's third production facility and second Ohio location as it pursues Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval for commercial operations.

Production Goals:

The Santa Cruz-based eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) manufacturer plans to double production capacity to four aircraft per month by 2027. The company previously expanded its Marina, California facility in July and its existing Dayton location in October.

Financial Backing:

Joby has received financial support from automaker partners to bolster production capabilities, though specific investment amounts were not disclosed in this report.

Industry Context:

Electric air taxi companies are racing toward FAA certification targeted for 2026, with multiple players scaling manufacturing operations to gain competitive advantage. The sector is receiving substantial government support, with the U.S. Department of Transportation committing to testing in select markets. Last year, authorities announced plans to test air taxi technology, signaling regulatory momentum.

Strategic Positioning:

CEO JoeBen Bevirt emphasized the company's role in reindustrializing Ohio's aerospace sector, stating the move ensures "commercial and defense aircraft that define the future of flight are built right here in America." Joby and competitor companies have also established partnerships with Middle East nations for technology testing and deployment.

Market Implications:

The expansion demonstrates growing confidence in the emerging urban air mobility market, with significant infrastructure investments preceding regulatory approval. Success hinges on securing FAA certification and establishing commercial partnerships with airlines, government entities, and defense contractors.