As new technologies emerge in aerospace, Delta is leveraging the latest aviation platforms and new partnerships to live up to its motto of “keep climbing.”
Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian spoke about the company's future plans and hinted that air taxis could soon take to the skies.
“We're going to start seeing them in the sky in the next few years,” Bastian told FOX Business' Liz Claman during CES 2025.
During the event, Delta Air Lines, celebrating its 100th anniversary, unveiled its vision for the next century.
This vision includes the adoption of artificial intelligence and the acceleration of new and current partnerships with companies in the technology, rideshare, and aerospace industries.
The CEO revealed plans to introduce an air taxi service from his home to the airport through a partnership between Joby Aviation and the company's all-electric vertical take-off vehicle (eVTOL).
“They are [Joby] We have gone through all the certification processes,” he said. “By the way, the FAA has been very supportive of bringing that mobility service to the skies because they recognize that the problem is ground stuff and all the congestion on the ground, so our ability to work with Joby. I was very impressed with the technology and I think they are leaders in this field.”
According to the newspaper, Joby is “participating in a multi-year pilot program with the FAA to certify that our vehicles can operate commercially, and has completed the first three of five stages.” Aerospace company website.
The December 2024 press release also highlighted a recent milestone in the air taxi certification process with the completion of testing of the aerostructure in the presence of FAA representatives.
As the certification process progresses, Bastian explained the FAA's understanding of the congestion.
“They realize that what's above ground and the congestion underneath is an issue,” Bastian said.
He also detailed how air taxis will operate and reduce travel time.
“For example, you can take a Joby from New York or Westchester County, where you live, and land at JFK. [John F. Kennedy International Airport]” he said. “How long does it take to travel? Probably 2 hours…I'm on the road within 15 minutes, within the Delta SkyMiles Club, and my next destination is… [inside] your plane. ”
“This is all about value,” Bastian suggested in conclusion.
