Joby Aviation, Inc. (NYSE: JOBY), a pioneer in electric air taxis for commercial passenger service, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the urban air mobility passenger business of Blade Air Mobility, Inc. (NASDAQ: BLDE).
This strategic move strengthens Joby’s position as it prepares to launch its first passenger services in Dubai next year. Blade’s Medical division, excluded from the deal, will remain a separate public company and partner with Joby on medical transportation.
This acquisition provides Joby with immediate access to key markets and infrastructure in New York City and Southern Europe.
Acquisition of Blade Air Passenger Business
The acquisition aims to combine Joby’s cutting-edge electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology with Blade’s decade-long expertise in premium air travel.
Blade transported over 50,000 passengers in 2024 through its network of 12 urban terminals, including dedicated lounges at John F. Kennedy International Airport, Newark Liberty Airport, and prime locations in Manhattan and Wall Street.
These assets will help Joby scale its operations efficiently.
A Strategic Partnership for Growth
The acquisition allows Joby to leverage Blade’s established infrastructure and loyal customer base, reducing the need for heavy investments in new facilities and marketing.
Blade’s passenger operations will continue as usual under the leadership of Blade’s founder and CEO, Rob Wiesenthal, as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Joby.
Over time, Joby plans to transition passengers from traditional helicopters to its quiet, eco-friendly eVTOL aircraft, accelerating its path to commercialization.
JoeBen Bevirt, Joby’s founder and CEO, highlighted the deal’s importance. “This acquisition is a critical step toward launching our commercial operations in Dubai and expanding globally. Blade’s world-class passenger experience and infrastructure give us a strong foundation to introduce our electric aircraft once certification is complete.”
Expanding Beyond Passenger Travel
In addition to the passenger business, Joby will become the preferred vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) partner for Blade’s organ transport operations, which will operate independently as Strata Critical Medical.
This partnership highlights the versatility of Joby’s aircraft, extending their use to high-value medical transport services. Joby’s ElevateOS software, designed for efficient air taxi operations, will also be integrated into Blade’s systems, enhancing cost efficiency and the passenger experience.
Rob Wiesenthal, Blade’s CEO, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. “Blade’s mission has always been to make short-distance air travel accessible and sustainable.”
“Joby’s progress toward certification and their successful demonstration flights in New York and Dubai make them the ideal partner to bring this vision to life.”
Acquisition Details and Next Steps
The acquisition encompasses Blade’s entire passenger business, including operations in the U.S. and Europe, as well as the Blade brand.
Joby will pay up to $125 million in cash or stock, at its discretion. Of this, $35 million will be subject to performance milestones and key employee retention.
The transaction is expected to close in the coming weeks, pending standard closing conditions.
Looking Ahead
This acquisition seeks to position Joby as a leader in the urban air mobility sector. By combining Blade’s operational expertise with Joby’s innovative technology, the company is equipping to redefine urban transportation.
The transition to electric air taxis promises quieter, emissions-free travel, aligning with growing demand for sustainable transport solutions.
Joby Aviation now prepares for its Dubai launch and planned global expansion. The Blade Air deal marks a significant milestone in transforming how people move through cities.
