Clear skies ahead.
We’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Join the next generation of aviation professionals by learning to fly or maintain our growing fleet.
Why does Joby Academy offer training to the public?
Joby Academy is a wholly owned subsidiary of Joby Aviation. We provide both flight and maintenance training for individuals seeking single-engine land pilot ratings and Light Sport Repairman, Airplane (LSRMA) certificates. This training is completely separate from our eVTOL and does not provide a pathway to fly or work on the Joby S4 electric aircraft.
Our mission is to remove barriers and increase access to aviation education and careers. We do this by providing the highest quality of professional pilot training for the next generation of aviators.
Life at Joby Academy.
Simulator
Classroom photo
Mechanic photo
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Flight Training
Begin your journey to the skies at our Watsonville Airport (KWVI) facility with industry-leading instruction and modern aircraft.
Discovery Flight
A Discovery Flight is your exciting first step into aviation—an introductory lesson designed to give you a true taste of flying.
A Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) will first walk you through the aircraft and brief you on the flight. Then, after takeoff, the fun really begins! You'll get to take the controls and experience first-hand what it's like to pilot an airplane, soaring over the beautiful Monterey Bay. It's the perfect adventure to treat yourself to or a truly unforgettable gift for a loved one.
Purchase a Discovery FlightLicenses & Certifications
Private Pilot License
Our Private Pilot License program is the perfect first step for students wanting to learn how to fly. The program provides the full scope of training, including ground school (theory) and flight training. Upon completion, private pilots have the freedom to fly for recreation or personal travel.
Instrument Rating
Our Instrument Rating program is designed for pilots who want to fly in inclement weather or low-visibility conditions. The program includes flight training, ground school, and simulator training. Upon completion, pilots are authorized to fly by reference to flight instruments only under instrument flight rules.
Commercial Pilot License
Our Commercial Pilot License program is designed for pilots who want to become a professional pilot. The program includes flight training, ground school, and simulator training. Graduates of the program earn their Commercial pilot license, allowing them to fly for compensation or hire.
Flight Instructor Certification
Our Flight Instructor Certification program is perfect for pilots who want to teach others how to fly. The program includes flight training, ground school, and classroom instruction. Upon completion, pilots will be eligible for several instructor certifications.
Flight Training Resources
Van's RV-12iST
$170/hourPurchased brand new from Van's Aircraft
- Modern glass-cockpit avionics: Garmin G3X Touch screens
- 2-axis autopilot
- Technically Advanced Aircraft
- Safety: Garmin Smart Glide
Flight Instructor
$70/hourOur team of instructors offer flight training in airplanes for:
- Private Pilot
- Instrument
- Commercial
- Flight Review
- Instrument Proficiency Check
Flight Training Pricing
Program base costs
Hourly wet rates include fuel, insurance, and aircraft lease. Realize your goals at Watsonville Airport (KWVI).
Comprehensive Flight Cost Estimates
These estimates cover all required training fees and expenses, including any third-party fees, calculated by combining the hourly rate for aircraft and instructor services against required flight hours.
| Certificate or Rating | Estimated Flight Hours | Estimated Cumulative Hours | Estimated Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Pilot Certificate (PP) | 65 | 65 | $17,990 |
| Instrument Rating (IR) | 65 | 130 | $17,500 |
| Commercial Pilot Certificate (CP) | 120 | 250 | $31,190 |
| Certified Flight Instructor Rating (CFI) | 10 | 260 | $6,660 |
| Certified Flight Instructor - Instrument Rating (CFI-I) | 10 | 270 | $5,485 |
| Estimated Total | $78,825 | ||
Except for the final "total" row, these figures are NOT cumulative. Some fees will be paid to third parties.
Maintenance Training
Master the mechanical foundations of modern aircraft through intensive, hands-on shop experience and classroom theory.
Pioneering maintenance training.
Joby Academy is authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to offer a Light Sport Repairman Maintenance Airplane (LSRMA) course. Individuals who complete the course receive an FAA repairman certificate with a maintenance rating, allowing them to perform maintenance, inspections, and alterations on airplanes within the light sport category, in accordance with 14 CFR 65.107.
The LSRMA course includes a minimum of 120 hours of instruction delivered over approximately 12 weeks. The first 11 weeks are delivered online, and students can complete the coursework from anywhere with an internet connection. Students are expected to spend 8-10 hours per week studying the course content, including readings, videos, and assignments. The in-person training consists of six consecutive 8-hour days of hands-on instruction and practical assessments. A detailed daily schedule will be provided closer to the start date. This practical portion must be attended in person in Watsonville, CA.
Reserve your seat for the next class
Maintenance Training Pricing
Course Fees
The total cost for the LSRMA course is $7,000. This total includes access to all required course materials, and covers the full cost of the Independent Rotax Maintenance Training (iRMT) certification, valued at $1,600.
Frequently Asked Questions
There is a global shortage of aircraft maintenance technicians who hold an FAA Mechanic Certification with Airframe and Powerplant ratings (A&P). As Joby's fleet of aircraft grows, our need for qualified maintenance technicians will rapidly increase. The LSRMA course provides an early entry point for individuals pursuing a career in aircraft maintenance. In the future, we will recruit from the pool of LSRMA graduates (among other sources) for Joby's Aircraft Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship (AMTA) program to build a long-term maintenance technician pipeline for Joby's air taxi business.
No, this course is designed as an entry point for individuals pursuing a career in aircraft maintenance. No prior experience is required.
Yes. While the course can be a step towards a professional career, it is also perfect for light sport airplane owners and others who wish to legally maintain light sport airplanes.
The in-person training consists of six consecutive 8-hour days of hands-on instruction and practical assessments. A detailed daily schedule will be provided closer to the start date.
Yes, students are responsible for their own travel, lodging, and meals for the mandatory 6-day in-person training segment.
All required course materials and tools are provided by Joby Academy.
An LSRMA certificate specifically authorizes you to maintain and inspect aircraft within the light sport category. An Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) license allows a mechanic to work on a much broader range of certified aircraft, from small planes to commercial airliners. The LSRMA is an excellent starting point and can be a stepping stone toward an A&P.
We are exploring options for VA approval, but the course is not currently eligible for GI Bill benefits or other financial aid.
The Independent Rotax Maintenance Training (iRMT) is delivered onsite at Joby Academy by Motive Aero and the certifications issued by the Rotax Flying and are highly recognized by Rotax service centers worldwide.
Upon successful completion of all course requirements, we will provide you with the necessary graduation certificate and assist you in completing the FAA application paperwork (FAA Form 8610-3) to be issued your FAA repairman certificate.