California-based eVTOL firm Joby Aviation has achieved a milestone by completing a groundbreaking air taxi test flight powered by hydrogen-electric technology. The test flight, covering 523 miles, was conducted using a converted Joby prototype equipped with a liquid hydrogen fuel tank and fuel cell system, resulting in water as the only emission. Joby envisions this feat as the first forward flight of a vertical takeoff and landing aircraft propelled by liquid hydrogen. CEO JoeBen Bevirt highlighted the importance of transitioning to cleaner air travel, emphasizing the potential of hydrogen-electric aircraft for regional transportation. Joby's hydrogen-electric demonstrator, a key component of their future technology program, utilizes the same airframe as their battery-electric aircraft but integrates a liquid hydrogen fuel tank capable of storing up to 40 kilograms. The company plans to commence commercial operations in 2025 with their battery-electric air taxi while concurrently developing hydrogen-powered flight capabilities. Joby foresees synergies between their battery-electric and hydrogen-electric aircraft, aiming to leverage shared infrastructure and operational processes. The company's interest in hydrogen-electric aviation was evident through the acquisition of German startup H2Fly in 2021, whose fuel cell system powers the aircraft's electric motors. Joby's collaboration with the U.S. Air Force's Agility Prime program further supports their hydrogen technology initiatives. Recent acquisitions of Xwing for autonomous technology and Inras GmbH for radar sensor technology enhance Joby's technological prowess in the aviation sector. The successful test flight and ongoing developments signify Joby's positive stance towards advancing hydrogen-electric aviation and sustainable air transportation.