A new electric aircraft, developed by Joby Aviation, recently completed a flight from Kennedy International Airport to Manhattan, taking approximately 10 minutes. This initiative is a part of a federal program that seeks to accelerate the introduction of air taxis.

The aircraft merges features of both helicopters and airplanes. Such technology could reshape urban transportation. Industry insiders believe these air taxis might eventually replace helicopters and possibly cars for some functions.

However, some experts express doubt. They argue these aircraft might be pricier than helicopters with limited practical applications. They highlight the industry’s history of unfulfilled promises regarding commercial flight approvals in the United States.

It’s not going to be like we look out our window and there’s flying cars everywhere, said Laurie Garrow, an engineering professor at Georgia Institute of Technology. I think we are, in the next two to five years, looking at these aircraft entering into service and filling these niche markets to begin with.

In a move supportive of electric aircraft, the Trump administration launched a project to unify efforts across states, municipalities, and companies. This initiative supports the deployment of electric aircraft for various purposes, including passenger, cargo, and medical use.

In March, the Transportation Department backed eight projects spanning 26 states. Joby’s pilot demonstration in New York marked one of these approved ventures.