SkyDrive Inc., a Japan-based electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft manufacturer, has entered into a partnership with Indian private jet operator JetSetGo Aviation Services Pvt. Ltd. to explore the development of commercial eVTOL operations in Gujarat, India. As part of the agreement, JetSetGo has placed a pre-order for 50 units of SkyDrive’s eVTOL aircraft.
The partnership will focus on assessing the commercial viability of eVTOL operations, initially in the Ahmedabad area, with potential expansion to other parts of Gujarat. Both companies will evaluate market opportunities and demand for eVTOL services in India.
SkyDrive has been examining the Indian market since 2022. In January 2024, the company signed an agreement with the Government of Gujarat to explore eVTOL applications, citing transportation challenges such as road congestion and emissions from conventional vehicles.
Suzuki Motor Corporation facilitated the partnership between SkyDrive and JetSetGo as part of its ongoing business and technical collaboration with SkyDrive. Production of SkyDrive’s eVTOL aircraft began in March 2024 at a Suzuki-owned facility.
SkyDrive CEO Tomohiro Fukuzawa stated that the company has been working with Suzuki since 2022 to assess the potential for eVTOL services in India. He described the partnership with JetSetGo as a step forward in addressing mobility challenges in urban areas.
JetSetGo CEO and co-founder Kanika Tekriwal noted that the agreement aligns with the company’s goal of incorporating sustainable air travel solutions. She highlighted the potential of eVTOL technology to improve travel efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
SkyDrive is currently seeking certification for its eVTOL aircraft in Japan and the United States. The company plans to showcase its eVTOL at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.
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