Joby partners with CAE for eVTOL aircraft pilot training

CAE has partnered with Joby Aviation, a California-based company developing all-electric aircraft for commercial passenger service, to develop and qualify flight simulation training devices that will be used to train the future pilots of Joby's revolutionary all-electric aircraft. Leveraging the core simulation technology Joby has been developing for the past five years, CAE will work with Joby to develop pilot training devices specifically for the company's eVTOL aircraft.

Joby intends to both manufacture and operate its aircraft, requiring the company to train a new generation of pilots. Used to simulate aircraft flight in various environments and conditions, flight simulators are an integral part of readying pilots to fly a new type of aircraft.

"CAE has a sterling reputation for delivering excellent simulation and training solutions," said Bonny Simi, Head of Air Operations and People for Joby. "We look forward to a world where thousands of Joby pilots are flying our aircraft every day and we couldn't ask for a better partner to help make that a reality."

Joby is currently working with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to secure its Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate, establishing the processes and regulatory approvals necessary for the company to operate commercially, with an expected service launch in 2024. 

"We are thrilled to partner with Joby to help bring their pioneering vision to life," said Nick Leontidis, CAE's Group President, Civil Aviation Training Solutions. "With more than 75 years of experience in the design, development and manufacture of flight simulators, CAE brings extensive expertise with new aircraft types to support the qualification of Joby's eVTOL fixed base flight training device and full-flight simulator with the FAA."

CAE recently announced Project Resilience, a CAD$1 billion investment into aviation technologies of the future. The investment accelerates CAE's role as a leader in end-to-end technology development, operational support and training solution for eVTOL pilots and Advanced Air Mobility.

With its low noise profile, Joby's eVTOL aircraft is designed to make fast, emissions-free, and convenient air travel an everyday reality in cities and communities around the world. Joby's fly-by-wire aircraft employs a unified flight control system and uses controls that are similar to fixed-wing aircraft, resulting in a smooth transition for pilots.

"We believe many pilots will consider flying for Joby to be a great career opportunity," said Simi. "In addition to flying an environmentally friendly aircraft with a great piloting experience, we'll offer pilots a reliable schedule that allows them to be home every evening, a luxury not available to most professional pilots."