Developer of the S4 eVTOL, with FAA type-certification work in Stages 4 and 5 and the first FAA-conforming aircraft flying for Type Inspection Authorization preparation.
Propulsion Architecture
Six all-tilting propellers (DEP), six dual-wound electric motors — 4 tilt with the nacelle, 2 via linkage. 236kW peak power per motor.
Primary Certification Context
FAA Powered-Lift
Strengths
Joby’s June 2026 Form 10-Q states that the first three stages of its five-stage FAA type-certification process are completed or substantially completed and that Stage 4 Testing & Analysis was approximately 75% complete. Its Q2 2026 shareholder letter reported five aircraft flying, including the first FAA-conforming aircraft, with Stage 5 Show & Verify active.
Primary evidence: Q2 2026 Form 10-Q; Q2 2026 shareholder letter.
Weaknesses / Open Questions
The FAA Type Certificate remains outstanding. Remaining work includes completion of Stage 4 compliance testing and Stage 5 regulator verification, including Type Inspection Authorization activity. Limited eIPP operations are a separate pathway and should not be treated as equivalent to type certification for widespread commercial service.
Last Updated
September 18, 2026
