California-based electric aircraft developer Joby Aviation has begun the fourth of five stages to receive its Part 135 air carrier certificate from the US FAA.

A Part 135 air carrier certificate is required for Joby to operate its eVTOL aircraft as an air taxi service in cities and communities around the US. Alongside a type certificate and production certificate, this is one of three regulatory approvals critical to the planned launch of Joby's all-electric aerial ridesharing service in 2024.

After filing an initial application for a Part 135 air carrier certificate in June 2021, Joby completed the second stage in August, which includes submission of a complete package of manuals. The third and fourth stages involve FAA review and approval of manuals and FAA observation of the company performing operations to ensure full regulatory compliance.

Last week, Joby entered the fourth stage of the process, with FAA representatives beginning to observe Joby's initial cadre of pilot instructors as they demonstrate mastery of training and operational procedures using the company's prepared manuals and training programme.

The fifth phase is FAA final approval and issuance of the Part 135 certificate. Joby expects to complete the Part 135 certification process later this year.

“Our aspiration is not just to build and certify a revolutionary aircraft, but to operate a commercial passenger service that saves people time with minimal impact on the environment,” says head of air operations and people Bonny Simi. “Achieving a Part 135 certification unlocks the ability to do that, and we're moving through the process ahead of schedule.”