# SkyDrive eVTOL development in Japan

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/20261027-skydrive-evtol-development-in-japan
> Updated: 2026-10-27T19:55:16.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

SkyDrive and a consortium of approximately 15 companies, including MUFG Bank, launched the “Kansai Air Transportation Network Concept” to study the feasibility of commercial electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) operations in Western Japan. The initiative focuses on developing infrastructure, such as converting rooftop helipads into vertiports, and establishing business models for the Kansai region with a goal of commencing commercial flights by 2028.

Following these developments, SkyDrive received the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) Award at the Japan Startup Awards 2026, recognized for its technological advancements in compact, economical eVTOL aircraft. The company has reported 445 pre-orders and intends to expand into urban transportation, medical supply delivery, and tourism.

SkyDrive is currently accelerating international expansion through strategic partnerships. In Singapore, the company signed a memorandum of understanding with six technology firms, including Accuron Technologies and Volt14 Solutions, to collaborate on research and development for aircraft components such as next-generation batteries and flight operations management. Additionally, SkyDrive has partnered with South Korea’s Verty Co. Ltd. to conduct feasibility studies for flight safety and infrastructure to support the commercial deployment of its SD-05 model, targeting a 2028 launch for regional transit and tourism.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-27: SkyDrive expands global eVTOL partnerships and receives Japanese award

SkyDrive is expanding its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) footprint through R&D partnerships in Singapore, commercial deployment plans in South Korea, and a major Japanese startup award.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/skydrive-receives-mlit-award-at-japan-startup-awards-2026

### 2026-10-06: SkyDrive and partners launch eVTOL feasibility study in Japan

SkyDrive and 15 companies, including MUFG Bank, have launched a study to launch commercial eVTOL aircraft operations in Japan's Kansai region by 2028.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/skydrive-and-partners-launch-evtol-feasibility-study-in-japan

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Cite as: SkyDrive eVTOL development in Japan. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/20261027-skydrive-evtol-development-in-japan