Shortcut to heaven
A trip that once took hours could be over in 10 minutes. That’s how much this could change how we live in the city. For many commuters, that would already feel like a shortcut to heaven.
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A trip that once took hours could be over in 10 minutes. That’s how much this could change how we live in the city. For many commuters, that would already feel like a shortcut to heaven.
GRAPHICS BY GLENZKIE TOLO
Someday soon, the traffic report might sound like this. “Expect heavy air congestion over Makati as flying taxis queue for landing near Greenbelt.”
It sounds wild, but Toyota is betting on it. The same brand that built our trusty Vios and recently launched the new ATIV now has its eyes on the sky with Joby Aviation’s electric flying taxis.
Joby Aviation is a California-based company developing electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft. The concept sounds simple in theory, but feels mind-bending in practice. The vehicle lifts off like a drone, then flies forward like a plane and lands in small spaces.
Earlier this year, Joby and Toyota completed a test flight in Japan. It proved that the idea could actually work. The aircraft lifted vertically, then shifted to forward flight before touching down smoothly without the usual helicopter noise.
It might take years before we see one flying over Metro Manila, but it is not impossible. Imagine booking a ride through an app and heading to a vertiport beside a mall while your friends are still stuck arguing with a Metropolitan Manila Development Authority enforcer.
Of course, this is the Philippines. Someone will still ask if there is a promo code or voucher.
Toyota’s half-billion-dollar investment could be more than a fancy transport project. It shows how carmakers are slowly turning into full mobility companies. They no longer just sell vehicles. They build mobility solutions that connect both land and air.
Joby’s aircraft runs entirely on electricity and aims to cut travel time without the noise or emissions of traditional helicopters. It can carry four passengers and one pilot. The company hopes to roll out flying taxi services in major cities before the end of the decade.
Toyota’s role is not just to fund the dream but to lend its manufacturing expertise to help Joby build the aircraft with the same precision used in its cars. In Japan, Toyota engineers already work with Joby’s design team to prepare for large-scale production.
Will our regulators approve these air taxis? Can our cities handle them safely? Even with Toyota’s reputation, convincing people to ride a flying car will not be easy.
A trip that once took hours could be over in 10 minutes. That’s how much this could change how we live in the city. For many commuters, that would already feel like a shortcut to heaven.
The technology looks real, and the timeline is unclear, but one thing feels certain. When flying taxis finally reach the Philippines, someone will post a TikTok or Instagram review of the in-flight snacks. Finally, a commute worth looking up to.
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