Joby Aviation has sued rival Archer Aviation in California state court in Santa Cruz, California, for allegedly stealing its trade secrets following the hiring by Archer of a former Joby employee George Kivork.
Here is the opening text of the complaint:
“Plaintiff Joby Aero, Inc. (“Joby”) hereby brings this complaint for misappropriation of trade secrets pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1836, tortious interference with contract, and tortious interference with prospective economic advantage against Defendant Archer Aviation Inc. (“Archer”) and Defendant George Kivork (“Kivork”); breach of contract, violation of California Penal Code § 502, breach of fiduciary duty, and breach of duty of loyalty against Kivork; and inducement of breach of contract, aiding and abetting breach of fiduciary duty, aiding and abetting breach of duty of loyalty, and unfair competition pursuant to California Business and Professions Code § 17200 et seq. against Archer.”
Archer denies the claim and says that Mr Kivork did not bring any Joby confidential information to Archer.
For more information
2025.11.18 Complaint Against Kivork and Archer w Exhibit.pdf
https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/joby-aviation-sues-air-taxi-rival-archer-over-trade-secrets-2025-11-20/
(Image: Joby Aviation earlier this month announced the first flight of its turbine electric, autonomous VTOL aircraft – Joby)