Traffic in Los Angeles has long shaped how people move, plan, and even choose where to live. Now, a high-end residential project in Century City is looking to shift that reality upward—literally.
A new proposal aims to turn a rooftop helipad into a private air taxi hub, offering a glimpse of how short-distance urban flights may soon fit into everyday life.
Real estate firm Reuben Brothers has partnered with Joby Aviation to introduce a “vertiport” atop the South Tower of Park Elm Residences at Century Plaza.
The idea centers on repurposing an existing helipad to support Joby’s all-electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, commonly known as eVTOLs. These aircraft are designed to take off like helicopters but operate with quieter, electric-powered systems.
A Strategic Location in Century City
The proposed site sits in one of Los Angeles’ most connected neighborhoods. According to Rob Wiesenthal, CEO of Joby’s Blade Air Mobility division, the location plays a key role in broader plans.
“Given its Century City location, [the site] is ideally positioned to anchor a broader Los Angeles vertiport network,” Wiesenthal said in a statement to the California Post. “We expect this network to completely reshape how residents move through the city, beginning with airport trips.”
That vision focuses on reducing travel times across a city known for gridlock. Trips that often take hours by car—especially during peak traffic—could shrink to just minutes in the air.
The vertiport is part of the Park Elm Residences, a luxury development featuring high-end condominiums priced between $1.4 million and over $11 million. On a per-square-foot basis, units range from about $2,000 to more than $2,600.
While the residences already target an affluent market, the addition of a private air taxi hub adds a new layer of appeal. Developers describe strong and consistent interest in the building, with the vertiport emerging as a standout feature for buyers seeking convenience and privacy.
How the Air Taxi Service Would Work
If approved, residents would gain access to fast connections across the region. Planned routes include Los Angeles International Airport, Santa Monica and Van Nuys.
Each trip would take a fraction of the time compared to driving. Booking would happen through a dedicated app, and passengers would have access to ground transportation at both ends of the journey. This integration comes through Joby’s partnership with Uber, allowing for a smoother door-to-door experience.
The vertiport itself would feature a passenger lounge modeled after facilities operated by Blade, Joby’s subsidiary, in cities such as New York and parts of southern France.
Notably, this would mark the first time such a facility is built directly into a residential building.
A Private Amenity—For Now
At launch, the service will not be open to the public. Access will remain limited to residents of Park Elm Residences.
“The vertiport service will be reserved exclusively for residents of Park Elm Residences, designed as a private, highly curated amenity that enhances both convenience and discretion,” said Jordana Yechiel, director of residential design at Reuben Brothers.
That exclusivity, however, is not expected to last. Joby has outlined plans to expand its network across Los Angeles, with publicly accessible vertiports becoming available once regulatory approvals are in place.
Regulatory Hurdles Still Ahead
Before any flights begin, Joby must secure certification from the Federal Aviation Administration. The process follows the same pathway used for traditional commercial aircraft, which involves strict safety and operational standards.
In addition to federal approval, the company will need clearance from local and regional authorities to operate within Los Angeles airspace. These steps remain among the biggest challenges facing the project.
Despite that, Joby continues to push forward. The company has completed thousands of test flights, including piloted demonstrations in the San Francisco Bay Area. These efforts aim to build confidence in electric air travel and show that the technology is close to readiness.
Addressing Cost and Public Access Concerns
The concept of air taxis often raises questions about accessibility. Critics argue that early services may cater primarily to wealthy users while leaving broader transportation needs untouched. Concerns also extend to noise levels, airspace congestion, and overall public benefit.
Joby has responded by highlighting the design of its aircraft. The company states that its electric propulsion system makes the vehicles significantly quieter than helicopters, describing them as “barely audible when flying overhead.”
Lower operating costs, according to the company, could also help bring pricing closer to existing ground transportation options, though exact figures have not yet been shared.
Los Angeles as a Testing Ground
Los Angeles has become a testing ground for urban air mobility. Several companies are working toward commercial launches.
Archer Aviation, the official air taxi partner of the 2028 Olympics, plans to begin early operations soon, pending approvals. The event will bring millions of visitors, which may increase pressure on transport systems.
Joby has not confirmed direct involvement in the Olympics. Still, the company sees strong potential in the region.
“The LA market is a great opportunity for Joby’s air taxis, and we plan on laying a strong foundation there,” a spokesperson said.
The Park Elm vertiport highlights a shift in urban travel. It starts as a private feature but points to broader changes ahead. Approval timelines and pricing will shape its future reach. For now, the idea of flying across Los Angeles is moving closer to daily life, even if access remains limited at the start.