Tesla is preparing to expand its robotaxi service to New York City by hiring vehicle operators to test its Autopilot driver-assistance technology on city streets. The company posted a job opening for a "Vehicle Operator, Autopilot" position in Queens to collect driving data for its self-driving software. This move indicates Tesla's early steps toward launching ride-hailing services in the largest U.S. metropolis. Tesla has not yet obtained the necessary permits for autonomous vehicle testing in New York, unlike Alphabet's Waymo, which recently applied for a city testing permit. Tesla's robotaxi service area currently covers Austin and the Bay Area, and CEO Elon Musk has stated it is larger than any competitor's. Additionally, Tesla is reportedly hiring Autopilot operators in India, signaling a broader expansion of its robotaxi program. Meanwhile, Joby Aviation achieved a milestone with its electric air taxi becoming the first to fly between two public U.S. airports, offering a seven-minute trip from downtown New York City to JFK Airport.