Joby Aviation Selected for White House Air Taxi Pilot Program, Stock Jumps 5%

Joby Aviation's shares surged 5% on Friday after the WHITE House included the company in its Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Integration Pilot Program. The initiative aims to accelerate the commercial deployment of air taxis by evaluating passenger, cargo, and emergency response operations ahead of full FAA certification.

Joby is currently in the fourth phase of the FAA's five-step certification process, with the first conforming aircraft expected this year. Pilot testing is slated to begin in early 2026. The program represents a strategic MOVE to fast-track regulatory approval while gathering critical operational data.

Year-to-date, Joby's stock has outperformed transportation and aerospace peers with an 80% gain. The company's selection underscores growing institutional confidence in next-generation mobility solutions.