eVTOL Air Taxi System to Be Developed in Alatau City

The project envisions the deployment of cutting-edge electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft as part of the transportation infrastructure of both Alatau City and Almaty.

“Kazakhstan is taking a bold step toward the future of innovative transport. The acquisition of electric eVTOL aircraft marks an important milestone in the development of smart cities and the implementation of breakthrough technologies. This initiative will play a key role in shaping Alatau City as a unique, forward-looking urban center”, said Zhaslan Madiev, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The first phase will involve the creation of a testbed for certification and demonstration flights, laying the groundwork for future commercial air taxi operations.

“We’re executing our proven strategy to enter new markets by working hand-in-hand with both government stakeholders and a strong regional operating partner to accelerate our path to commercial operations in Kazakhstan”, said JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby Aviation.

According to Bevirt, Kazakhstan is well-positioned to become a key hub for advanced aerial mobility and a launchpad for Joby’s expansion into Central Asia.

“Our mission is to bring the vision of Urban Air Mobility to life in Kazakhstan - starting with the new smart city of Alatau and the metropolis of Almaty. Our goal is to become the first eVTOL operator in the region, establish a comprehensive testbed and ground infrastructure, and support the Government of Kazakhstan in developing a robust regulatory framework for safe and sustainable operations”, said Sergey Khegai, CEO of Alatau Advance Air Group Ltd.

Earlier, Vyacheslav Kim – sole shareholder of Alatau City Bank and member of the Alatau City Development Council stated that all of Alatau City’s anchor projects would be financed through private capital. Approximately $400 million will be allocated to the Urban Air Mobility project, covering aircraft procurement, testbed development, infrastructure build-out, and regulatory groundwork to integrate air taxis into the urban landscape.

About the Companies:

Joby Aviation – A California-based transportation company and global leader in eVTOL aviation, developing fully electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft for commercial air taxi services.

Alatau Advance Air Group Ltd. (AAAG) – A private company registered at the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), dedicated to implementing advanced air mobility solutions in Kazakhstan, with a focus on the cities of Alatau and Almaty.