Joby Aviation has announced plans to acquire Blade Air Mobility's passenger business for up to $125 million, including additional performance-related milestones.
Deal Details
According to available reports, only Blade's passenger business is included in the acquisition; its medical organ transplant division will remain a separate public company rebranded as Strata Critical Medical. This new entity will continue to collaborate with Joby on medical transport.
Joby's Expansion Efforts
Joby Aviation is actively pursuing certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for its electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles (eVTOLs). CEO JoeBen Bevirt stated that flight testing will begin early next year. The acquisition will provide Joby access to Blade’s existing customer base and a decade of operational experience. Bevirt referred to this deal as a 'launchpad' for expanding Blade’s established experience.
Military Direction of the Company
In addition to the acquisition plans, Joby is partnering with L3Harris Technologies to develop a hybrid gas turbine vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft for military applications. This aircraft is expected to support low-altitude missions and will be offered in both crewed and autonomous modes. Flight testing is scheduled for this fall, with operational demonstrations planned for 2026. The aircraft will leverage Joby’s existing S4 platform adapted with a hybrid gas turbine powertrain.
The acquisition between Joby Aviation and Blade Air Mobility marks a significant step forward in the evolution of air travel, creating new opportunities for both civilian and military aviation.
