Joby Aviation Sues Archer Aviation Over Alleged Trade Secret Theft

Joby Aviation has escalated its rivalry with Archer Aviation by filing a trade secret lawsuit in California state court. The legal action centers on a former Joby employee who allegedly downloaded confidential files—including aircraft specifications, deal terms, and business strategies—before joining Archer in July. Joby claims digital forensics reveal the employee transferred files to a personal email and manipulated access controls.

Archer Aviation denies wrongdoing, framing the lawsuit as a tactical maneuver to stifle competition. The legal clash unfolds as both companies race to commercialize electric air taxis, a sector attracting significant investor interest. Joby's stock surged over 60% in 2025, while Archer's shares declined by 25% during the same period.

A March 20, 2026 court hearing looms as the next milestone in this high-stakes corporate dispute. The outcome could influence competitive dynamics in the emerging urban air mobility market.