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NewsWFLA News Channel 8October 30, 2026Hillsborough County

Joby Aviation and BETA Technologies fly historic electric aircraft formation from St. Petersburg to Tampa

Photo: WFLA News Channel 8

Electric aircraft from Joby Aviation and BETA Technologies completed the first-ever formation flight between St. Petersburg and Tampa on Friday, marking a milestone for commercial air taxis. The companies are currently awaiting FAA certifications before launching commercial passenger and cargo services.

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Read the full story at WFLA News Channel 8

Why It Matters

The demonstration highlights an emerging alternative form of regional transportation designed to bypass traditional road and bridge infrastructure while offering fuel-free travel.

Key Facts

  • Joby Aviation and BETA Technologies flew two electric aircraft in formation from Albert Whitted Airport to Tampa International Airport on Friday.
  • The test flight traced the same route as the world's first commercial flight flown by Tony Jannus more than 100 years ago.
  • Joby Aviation plans to operate its aircraft as an air taxi service comparable to ride-sharing apps within a year or two.
  • BETA Technologies is initially focusing its aircraft operations on medical transport and cargo logistics.
  • Both companies are currently awaiting Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certifications before carrying commercial passengers.
  • The electric aircraft do not use fuel, which experts state cuts down on travel costs and bypasses traditional road and bridge congestion.

Who's Mentioned

PersonRon DeSantis“Governor quoted regarding the new era of transportation”PersonBonny Simi“President of Operations at Joby Aviation”OrganizationBETA Technologies“Aviation company participating in the flight”locationTampa“Arrival location for the historic flight”OrganizationTampa International Airport“Arrival airport in Tampa”OrganizationJoby Aviation“Air taxi company participating in the flight”PersonTony Jannus“Pilot of the world's first commercial flight over a century ago”OrganizationAlbert Whitted Airport“Departure airport in St. Petersburg”PersonChris Caputo“Director of Flight Operations with BETA Technologies”locationSt. Petersburg“Departure location for the historic flight”