California Delegation Trip: Joby, Archer, Wisk & NASA

Overview

In January, we led a groundbreaking delegation trip to California, engaging with some of the world’s leading AAM pioneers—Joby Aviation, Archer, Wisk, and NASA Ames Research Center. This visit provided invaluable insights into aircraft development, certification progress, and airspace integration, reinforcing the importance of international collaboration in advancing AAM in Canada.

Our journey began at Joby Aviation in Marina, California where we explored their innovative eVTOL technology, discussed certification challenges, learned Joby’s vertical integration approach and witnessed their test flights firsthand. The visit underscored the critical role of operational integration in bringing AAM to market.

Next, we toured Archer’s San Jose headquarters, gaining an inside look at their Midnight eVTOL production and battery innovation. Their expansion into the 400,000 square-meter large-scale manufacturing in Covington, Georgia, highlighted the accelerating pace of AAM commercialization.

At Wisk, we dove into the future of autonomous air mobility, touring their Gen 6 aircraft, autonomy lab, and flight simulation center. Their vision for uncrewed operations and people-centric approach showcased the potential for seamless urban air mobility.

Finally, at NASA Ames Research Center at Moffet Field, we explored groundbreaking AAM research, from airspace integration to high-fidelity flight simulation. Their work is shaping the global future of AAM.

This delegation trip was more than a series of site visits—it was an opportunity to strengthen relationships, gain firsthand knowledge, and bring global best practices back to Canada. The insights gathered will inform CAAM’s efforts in shaping policy, supporting industry advancements, and ensuring Canada remains a leader in Advanced Air Mobility.