Joby Aviation has received the first of two high-fidelity flight simulators developed with training leader CAE, marking a crucial step in preparing for its planned commercial air taxi service. The simulators are designed to meet the highest FAA qualification levels, providing an ultra-realistic training environment essential for single-pilot electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) operations.
This delivery is pivotal for Joby’s certification and commercial timeline. “These simulators are central to the FAA certification process and are being delivered on time to support pilot training ahead of Joby’s first commercial flights planned for this year,” said Bonny Simi, Joby’s President of Operations. She emphasized that developing fully FAA-qualified simulators is a multi-year requirement for Part 135 operations and began with CAE in 2022.
The first unit, a fixed-base device, will be installed this month at Joby’s facility in Marina, California. A second, full-motion simulator is slated for delivery later this year. Once operational, the pair will form a training hub capable of qualifying up to 250 pilots annually.
Technologically, the simulators are designed as “digital twins” of Joby’s aircraft. They feature a massive 300-by-130-degree field of view, powered by CAE’s Prodigy Image Generator using Epic Games’ Unreal Engine to create highly detailed, dynamic urban environments. The systems also incorporate precise audio, turbulence, and vibration cues to replicate real-world flight conditions, including complex wind effects around buildings.
“CAE is proud to partner with Joby to bring world-class simulation technology to the emerging eVTOL market,” said Alexandre Prévost of CAE. “These simulators set a new benchmark for training infrastructure in urban air mobility.”
The joint development involved rigorous testing across Joby’s facilities in California and Costa Rica, integrating simulated and actual hardware to ensure the system accurately replicates flight physics and meets all FAA standards. This infrastructure positions Joby to build a scalable pilot training pipeline as it advances toward launching its commercial passenger service.
