[REVISION HISTORY]

SkyDrive eVTOL development in Japan

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2026-10-28 02:45 UTC → 2026-10-29 12:06 UTC · added ~~removed~~

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. The company was~~ 2026, recognized for its technological advancements in compact, economical eVTOL aircraft. ~~SkyDrive~~ The company has reported 445 pre-orders and ~~noted its intention~~ intends to expand into urban transportation, medical supply delivery, and ~~tourism, while maintaining~~ tourism. SkyDrive is currently accelerating international ~~partnerships across nine countries.~~ 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.

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