Joby Aviation to Acquire Blade's Passenger Business for up to $125 Million to Speed Market Entry
Joby Aviation acquires Blade's passenger business to accelerate the commercialization of its air taxis, securing key infrastructure and market access.
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Joby Aviation, the company developing electric air taxis (eVTOL) for commercial service, today announced it signed a definitive agreement to purchase the passenger transport business of Blade Air Mobility. The deal, valued at up to $125 million, aims to drastically accelerate the commercialization of Joby's services by providing immediate access to infrastructure, a loyal customer base, and operational experience in strategic markets.
This move combines an eVTOL aircraft manufacturer in the advanced stages of certification with the FAA with one of the world's most recognized urban air mobility (UAM) platforms. Blade, which flew more than 50,000 passengers in 2024, will continue its normal operations, but now as a subsidiary of Joby, and will remain under the leadership of its founder, Rob Wiesenthal.
The acquisition gives Joby control of a network of 12 urban terminals in high-value locations, including John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), and several heliports in Manhattan. Additionally, Blade's network in Southern Europe is also part of the agreement. This infrastructure will allow Joby a smoother transition from conventional helicopters to its electric aircraft once they obtain final certification.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Acquisition
What does Joby's acquisition of Blade imply? Joby gains instant access to Blade's routes, terminals, and customers, accelerating its commercialization plan and reducing initial infrastructure investment.
When will Joby begin operations? Joby plans to launch its first commercial services in Dubai next year (2026) and subsequently in other markets as its aircraft is certified.
What will happen to Blade's medical business? Blade's organ transport division was not sold. It will become an independent company named Strata Critical Medical and will partner with Joby, using its aircraft for medical missions.
How much did the acquisition cost? The deal is valued at up to $125 million, payable in cash or stock at Joby's election.
JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO of Joby Aviation, stated that "this is a strategically important acquisition that will support the successful launch of Joby’s commercial operations in Dubai, our subsequent global rollout and our continued leadership in the sector." He added that with access to the infrastructure they have secured and the loyal customer base they have developed, "we will be in the best possible position to launch our quiet, electric aircraft as soon as certification is secured.”
Meanwhile, Blade's organ transport business, which was not included in the transaction, will be relaunched as a separate public company under the name Strata Critical Medical. Joby will become the preferred VTOL partner for this business, demonstrating use cases for its aircraft beyond passenger transport.
Rob Wiesenthal, founder and CEO of Blade, commented that the company was founded with the mission of facilitating the transition from conventional rotorcraft to quiet, emissions-free electric aircraft, and he believes "there is no better partner than Joby to make that mission a reality.”
The transaction is expected to close in the coming weeks, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.
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