Air Taxi Flights Debut at Osaka Expo

ANA Holdings and Joby Aviation announced the start of public flight demonstrations of Joby’s electric air taxi at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan. The flights, held in collaboration with the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB), marked the first demonstration of its kind at a world expo, according to the company, and included vertical takeoff, transition to wingborne flight, and vertical landing. Over the 13-day event, Joby plans to complete more than 20 flights.

Joby’s aircraft, displayed in ANA livery, showcased all-electric, low-noise technology to Expo attendees, with daily crowds expected to reach 200,000. The demonstrations aim to build public awareness, support regulatory development, and inform Japan’s air mobility roadmap.

“Joby’s air taxi demonstration flight at the Expo represents a significant step toward bringing our air taxi service to life in Japan," said Koji Shibata, President and CEO of ANA HD.

The companies said the flights are part of a phased rollout plan for an air taxi ecosystem beginning in Tokyo. Plans include vertiports, pilot training programs, and aircraft maintenance networks, developed in collaboration with government and industry partners.

Joby’s aircraft is designed to carry a pilot and four passengers at speeds up to 200 mph (320 km/h).