Joby Aviation Expands Ohio Footprint With $61.5 Million Dayton Manufacturing Facility

Joby Aviation is expanding its manufacturing presence in the Midwest with the purchase of a major production facility in Dayton, Ohio, as the company works toward scaling up output of its electric air taxis. The Santa Cruz–based firm announced Wednesday that it has agreed to buy a 700,000-square-foot manufacturing site from Capstone STS for $61.5 million, according to a regulatory filing.

The acquisition marks Joby’s second facility in Ohio and more than doubles its manufacturing footprint in the state. The company reiterated previously announced plans to increase production capacity to four electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, or eVTOLs, per month by 2027 as it prepares for commercial operations.

Chief Executive Officer JoeBen Bevirt said the new facility will play a key role in Joby’s long-term growth strategy while aligning with broader efforts to strengthen U.S.-based aerospace manufacturing. He pointed to Ohio’s policy environment and government support as critical factors in the company’s expansion.

“The reindustrialization of Ohio has become central to Joby’s story,” Bevirt said in a statement, adding that the company aims to ensure future commercial and defense aircraft are built domestically.

Joby’s move comes as air taxi developers accelerate manufacturing investments in an increasingly competitive sector. Companies are racing to build production capacity while simultaneously pursuing certification from the Federal Aviation Administration, a requirement for launching commercial passenger service.

The Dayton expansion builds on recent manufacturing milestones for Joby. In July, the company announced an expansion of its Marina, California, facility, and in October it began producing propeller blades at its existing Dayton site. Joby has also received significant financial backing to support production, including $894 million from automaker Toyota.

Across the industry, eVTOL developers are forming partnerships with airlines, defense agencies and international governments to advance testing and deployment. The U.S. government has signaled growing interest as well, with a federally approved pilot program and a Department of Transportation roadmap outlining initial market testing. Joby and rival Archer Aviation have also partnered with Middle Eastern countries as they look to bring air taxi services closer to reality.