Legal Battle Over Future of Flying Taxis

Legal Battle over Flying Taxis: Joby vs Archer in the USA, Stakes in UAE

As the world's attention increasingly focuses on future transportation solutions, especially flying taxis, the technological competition is playing out not just in the development labs but increasingly in courtrooms too. California-based Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation are two pioneering players in the eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) market, with both aiming to play a key role in launching the Dubai and Abu Dhabi air taxi market by 2026. However, the rivalry between the two has reached a new level: they are now clashing on the legal front.

The crux of the accusations: industrial espionage

According to a lawsuit filed in the Santa Cruz State Court, Joby Aviation accuses Archer of having obtained confidential information through a former employee, using it to secure a business deal. The alleged intermediary, George Kivork, previously served as Joby's head of American governmental and local political relations.

Joby claims that before leaving the company, Kivork sent dozens of documents to his private email account and altered the access settings of many other files to maintain access. These data allegedly contained business strategies, partner contract details, and technical specifications of aircraft. Joby contends that Kivork took this information to his new employer, Archer, which then immediately attempted to underbid a development contract in the United States.

Archer's response: bad faith litigation

Archer Aviation strongly denies the allegations. The company's legal and strategic chief, Eric Lentell—who was at the 2025 Dubai Airshow at the time of the announcement—stated, "This is bad faith litigation," claiming Joby is attempting this because it cannot achieve its goals in the market. According to Lentell, there is no agreement with the mentioned developer, and Kivork did not take any confidential information with him.

In his statement, he emphasized: "Archer remains focused on building the future of forward-looking aviation technology in the United States." However, he did not respond when asked if they planned to file a counterclaim.

Why is this case important for the UAE?

Although the legal battle is taking place in the United States, the stakes may involve the future of aviation in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Both companies are actively present in the Emirates and are in advanced testing phases. The Dubai Urban Mobility Authority, along with several real estate developers, is interested in integrating eVTOL technologies—whether it be new transportation hubs or luxury developments that plan to offer private air taxi access.

If Joby can prove that Archer gained a competitive advantage through unlawful means, it could affect the company's standing in international markets, especially in the UAE, where regulatory and governmental support factors are particularly important.

What qualifies as industrial espionage?

In the United States, the Economic Espionage Act of 1996 clearly defines what constitutes the theft and use of trade secrets. According to the law, it is a federal crime to knowingly acquire, use, or transmit a trade secret—for financial gain or otherwise. In such cases, the court can impose fines, compensation, or even criminal proceedings.

What could be the outcome of the trial?

The next hearing is set for March 20, 2026, and the trial may drag on for many months. Joby is seeking monetary compensation and a court order to prevent Archer from using the contested information. The outcome of the case could set a precedent in the eVTOL industry, especially in new markets like the UAE, where the future of technological partnerships and government approvals largely depends on companies' reliability.

Summary: aerial future under the shadow of ground lawsuits

The litigation between Joby and Archer illustrates that technological innovation is not just a matter of development but also a legal battleground. While Dubai and Abu Dhabi could become one of the world's first eVTOL destinations, the ongoing legal disputes may significantly influence which player secures the decisive partnership positions. For local authorities, it will be crucial that the technology is not only modern but also ethically operated. In this race, not just speed but integrity also matters.

(Source: Based on a statement from Archer's Director of Legal and Strategic Affairs.)