Technology & Innovation
ANA and Joby Aviation Showcase eVTOL Flights at Expo 2025 Osaka
ANA Holdings and Joby Aviation will demonstrate eVTOL aircraft at Expo 2025 Osaka, advancing urban air mobility in Japan.
The partnership between ANA Holdings and Joby Aviation to showcase electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft at Expo 2025 Osaka represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of urban air mobility, marking the first large-scale public demonstration of commercial eVTOL technology in Japan. This groundbreaking collaboration, featuring the Joby S4 aircraft adorned with distinctive ANA livery, will conduct daily flight demonstrations from October 1-13, 2025, at the EXPO Vertiport within the Mobility Experience area of the exposition site. The demonstration program serves as a crucial stepping stone toward the companies’ ambitious goal of establishing a joint venture to deploy more than 100 Joby aircraft across Japan, beginning with Tokyo and expanding to create a comprehensive air taxi ecosystem throughout the nation. With the global eVTOL market projected to reach $87.6 billion by 2026, growing at a 37.2% compound annual growth rate, and Japan’s commitment to sustainable transportation solutions, this initiative positions both companies at the forefront of what industry experts predict will be a transformative shift in urban mobility infrastructure.
Urban air mobility (UAM) is rapidly emerging as a solution to urban congestion, environmental sustainability, and the growing demand for efficient intra-city transportation. The ANA and Joby Aviation demonstration at Expo 2025 Osaka is not only a technological showcase but also a strategic move that could influence regulatory frameworks, public acceptance, and the pace of eVTOL adoption in Japan and beyond. The demonstration flights are expected to provide valuable operational data, public feedback, and a high-profile platform to engage stakeholders from government, industry, and the general public.
As Japan prepares to host millions of visitors and global attention at Expo 2025, the eVTOL demonstrations stand to highlight the nation’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. The collaboration between a leading Japanese Airlines and a pioneering American eVTOL Manufacturers underscores the international nature of the urban air mobility revolution and sets the stage for future partnerships and market developments.
The concept of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft has transitioned from speculative fiction to imminent reality over the last decade. This evolution has been propelled by technological advancements in battery energy density, electric propulsion, and flight control systems, as well as the pressing need to address urban congestion and environmental concerns. The eVTOL industry began gaining significant momentum in the early 2010s, coinciding with the rise of autonomous vehicle technologies and increased investment in sustainable transportation.
ANA Holdings, Japan’s largest airline group, has consistently been an early adopter of aviation innovation. Since its establishment in 2013, ANA has integrated advanced technologies and sustainable practices into its operations, earning a 5-Star SKYTRAX rating for twelve consecutive years. The company’s environmental strategy, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050, aligns closely with the adoption of zero-emission eVTOL aircraft and other sustainable aviation initiatives.
Joby Aviation, founded by JoeBen Bevirt, has been a front-runner in eVTOL development, emphasizing vertical integration and in-house component design. With over 1,000 test flights and significant regulatory progress, Joby has positioned itself as a technology leader. The company’s approach contrasts with competitors who rely more heavily on established aerospace suppliers, highlighting the diversity of strategies within the eVTOL sector.
Regulation has been a significant challenge for the eVTOL industry. Traditional aviation frameworks were not designed for aircraft with distributed propulsion, vertical takeoff, and potential autonomy. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have developed distinct certification approaches, with the FAA focusing on risk-based safety outcomes and EASA blending conventional and performance-based standards.
Japan’s regulatory environment has been characterized by close collaboration between industry and government. The Japan Civil Aviation Bureau has worked with companies like SkyDrive to establish certification pathways, granting a G-1 certification basis in early 2025. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has also outlined vertiport classifications to support a range of eVTOL applications, from airport transfers to emergency medical services. This progressive regulatory stance is expected to facilitate the deployment of eVTOL services in Japan, offering a supportive environment for ANA and Joby’s joint venture ambitions.
“The ANA and Joby Aviation demonstration program will operate from the EXPO Vertiport, strategically located within the Mobility Experience area of the exposition site.”
Expo 2025 Osaka, running from April 13 to October 13, 2025, is poised to attract around 28 million visitors, serving as a global stage for cutting-edge technology and international collaboration. The ANA and Joby demonstration flights will take place at the EXPO Vertiport, with scheduled flights twice daily and additional showcase events for public engagement.
The demonstration flights will last 10 to 15 minutes and are designed to highlight the Joby S4’s vertical takeoff, transition to wing-borne flight, and vertical landing. On select days, the aircraft will be displayed at the Vertiport hangar for closer public inspection. Outdoor viewing areas, including the Grand Ring, will allow thousands of visitors to witness the flights, ensuring broad exposure and engagement.
Beyond public spectacle, these demonstrations serve critical strategic purposes. They offer Joby Aviation operational experience in a controlled environment and allow ANA Holdings to gather feedback on public acceptance and operational logistics. The program also provides a platform to demonstrate the aircraft’s quiet operation and zero-emission profile, key factors for urban deployment and regulatory approval.
The Expo demonstration is part of a broader strategy to establish a joint venture between ANA and Joby for eVTOL air taxi services in Japan. The planned deployment of over 100 Joby aircraft represents one of the largest eVTOL rollouts globally. ANA brings aviation expertise, regulatory relationships, and customer service infrastructure, while Joby provides advanced technology and manufacturing capabilities.
Toyota Motor Corporation, a key investor and collaborator, adds automotive manufacturing expertise to the partnership. This cross-industry collaboration is indicative of the broader trend in eVTOL development, where automotive and aerospace sectors converge to scale production and optimize costs.
Infrastructure development, including vertiports, pilot training, and maintenance, will be critical to the partnership’s success. Collaboration with government agencies and private sector partners is expected to accelerate ecosystem development and support the transition from demonstration to commercial operations.
“The demonstration program serves multiple strategic purposes beyond public education and engagement. It provides Joby Aviation with valuable operational experience in a controlled environment while allowing ANA Holdings to assess public reception and operational feasibility.”
The Joby S4 is among the most advanced eVTOL aircraft nearing commercial certification. Designed for urban air mobility, it accommodates four passengers and one pilot, with a payload capacity of 1,000 pounds. The aircraft achieves a maximum speed of 200 mph and a range of 100 miles, making it suitable for city and airport connections. The S4’s propulsion system features six electric dual-wound motors, distributed across the wings and V-tail, providing redundancy and safety. Its four lithium-ion battery packs deliver a peak power output of 236 kW, with high energy density, supporting both performance and operational range. The aircraft’s quiet operation, approximately 45 dBA during cruise, addresses a major concern for urban deployment.
Safety is a central design principle. The distributed propulsion system ensures continued safe operation even with multiple motor failures, and the aircraft can land conventionally if necessary. Advanced flight control systems reduce pilot workload and enhance safety, drawing on technologies from both aviation and military sectors.
ANA Holdings’ environmental strategy is closely tied to the adoption of eVTOL technology. The company’s goal of carbon neutrality by 2050 is supported by the zero-emission operation of the Joby S4, which produces no direct carbon emissions during flight. The aircraft’s quiet profile also reduces noise pollution, a significant barrier to urban aviation.
Japan’s broader environmental policies, including commitments to sustainable aviation fuel and negative emissions technologies, complement the deployment of eVTOL aircraft. ANA’s partnerships with companies like Climeworks and 1PointFive for carbon capture further illustrate a multi-faceted approach to sustainability.
The environmental benefits of eVTOL adoption depend on the carbon intensity of the electricity used for charging. Japan’s ongoing transition to renewable energy will influence the overall sustainability of eVTOL operations, and partnerships for renewable energy sourcing at vertiports could further enhance environmental outcomes.
“The aircraft’s exceptionally low noise profile, registering approximately 45 dBA during cruise flight, represents a critical advancement for urban operations where noise pollution concerns could limit deployment.”
The global eVTOL market is expected to experience rapid growth, with projections ranging from $4.2 billion in early 2025 to $87.6 billion by 2026. This growth is driven by urban congestion, environmental regulations, and technological advancements. Venture funding in the sector has exceeded $12 billion, with major players like Joby Aviation, Archer Aviation, and Lilium racing to achieve commercial certification and market entry.
Competition is intense and diverse. Joby’s vertical integration contrasts with Archer’s reliance on established suppliers, while Lilium and EHang pursue different technological and market strategies. Strategic partnerships, such as Joby’s with Toyota and Delta Air Lines, are crucial for scaling production and accessing markets. Regional regulatory differences and market readiness also shape competitive dynamics.
Japan’s market offers unique opportunities due to its geography, population density, and supportive regulatory environment. The planned deployment of over 100 Joby aircraft positions ANA and Joby as first movers, but success will depend on effective execution, public acceptance, and continued regulatory progress. The Expo 2025 demonstrations are a critical step in building momentum and validating the commercial viability of eVTOL services in Japan. Regulatory uncertainty remains a significant obstacle. The FAA, EASA, and Japanese authorities are developing new certification frameworks, but differences in safety standards and operational requirements create complexity for manufacturers and operators. Airspace integration and vertiport infrastructure development are additional challenges that require coordination between aviation authorities, local governments, and private sector partners.
Japan’s collaborative regulatory approach, including recent progress with SkyDrive and vertiport classifications, may offer a smoother path to market for ANA and Joby. However, the experience of Expo 2025 itself, with construction delays and cost overruns, highlights the risks associated with large-scale innovation projects.
Long-term success will depend on overcoming these challenges, ensuring safety and reliability, and building public trust in eVTOL technology as a safe, efficient, and sustainable transportation option.
“The regulatory landscape for eVTOL aircraft has required extensive development of new certification frameworks. Traditional aviation regulations, designed for conventional aircraft, proved inadequate for vehicles featuring distributed propulsion systems, vertical takeoff capabilities, and potential autonomous operation.”
The ANA Holdings and Joby Aviation eVTOL demonstrations at Expo 2025 Osaka represent a landmark event in the advancement of urban air mobility. This collaboration not only showcases cutting-edge technology but also sets the stage for the commercial deployment of eVTOL services in Japan. The partnership brings together aviation expertise, advanced engineering, and a shared commitment to sustainability, positioning both companies as leaders in the future of urban transportation.
As the industry moves from demonstration to commercial reality, the outcomes of the Expo 2025 flights will influence regulatory frameworks, public perception, and market development. The success of ANA and Joby’s partnership could accelerate the adoption of eVTOL technology, offering a blueprint for similar initiatives worldwide and contributing to the broader goals of sustainable, efficient, and accessible urban mobility.
What is an eVTOL aircraft? When and where will the ANA and Joby demonstration flights take place? How many Joby aircraft are planned for deployment in Japan? What are the main environmental benefits of eVTOL aircraft? What are the biggest challenges to commercial eVTOL adoption?
ANA Holdings and Joby Aviation Pioneer Urban Air Mobility with Historic eVTOL Demonstrations at Expo 2025 Osaka
Background and Historical Context of Urban Air Mobility Development
Regulatory Evolution and Japan’s Approach
The Expo 2025 Demonstration Program: A Showcase of Future Mobility
Strategic and Business Implications
Technical Specifications and Capabilities of the Joby S4 Aircraft
Environmental and Societal Impact
Market Analysis, Competition, and Future Prospects
Regulatory and Infrastructure Challenges
Conclusion
FAQ
An eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft is a type of vehicle that uses electric propulsion to take off, fly, and land vertically. It is designed for urban air mobility, reducing congestion and emissions compared to traditional transportation.
The public demonstration flights will occur from October 1-13, 2025, at the EXPO Vertiport within the Mobility Experience area of Expo 2025 Osaka.
ANA Holdings and Joby Aviation have announced plans to deploy more than 100 Joby aircraft across Japan, beginning with Tokyo and expanding to other major cities.
eVTOL aircraft produce zero direct emissions during flight and have a very low noise profile, making them suitable for urban environments and helping reduce transportation-related carbon emissions.
Key challenges include regulatory approval, infrastructure development (such as vertiports), airspace integration, public acceptance, and ensuring safety and reliability in urban environments.
Sources
Photo Credit: Joby Aviation