ANA to launch affordable flying taxi service in Japan in 2027

by TAKASHI YOSHIDA
August 6, 2025

A “flying car,” developed by ANA Holdings Inc., is seen in the skies during a test flight conducted in California. © Joby Aviation
The skies of Tokyo may soon be streaked with flying cars, as ANA Holdings Inc. announced lofty plans to launch a sky-high taxi service in Japan in or after 2027.

The company has agreed to establish a joint venture with Joby Aviation, a U.S. startup that designs and manufactures flying cars, ANA announced on Aug. 5.

ANA Holdings said these flying taxis will begin operating in the Tokyo metropolitan area first—reducing the travel time between central Tokyo and Narita Airport, which currently takes 60 to 90 minutes by taxi or other means, to about 15 minutes.

The company said it plans to make fare prices affordable enough for everyday use.

In the future, the company plans to expand the service to other regions across Japan, including Kansai, with more than 100 flying cars in operation.

Koji Shibata, ANA Holdings president, said, “Leveraging ANA’s expertise, we will create a new mode of air transportation.”

The flying vehicle, which is undergoing multiple test flights in preparation for commercial operations, is a five-seater with a top speed of 320 kph.

Demonstration flights will be conducted for the public at the Osaka Kansai Expo starting from Oct. 1.