Rahul Somvanshi
Japanese company SkyDrive has moved closer to making electric flying vehicles a reality after receiving crucial safety approval for its three-passenger aircraft. The company also started building these vehicles at Suzuki Motor Corporation’s factory in March 2024.
These aircraft, known as eVTOLs (electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing), can take off and land without a runway and are powered by electricity. This new type of aircraft aims to provide a new mode of transportation for urban areas.
Japan’s aviation authority, JCAB, has agreed on the safety requirements that SkyDrive’s aircraft must meet before it can carry passengers. This certification process follows specific airworthiness and performance criteria, similar to the safety standards used for other aircraft.
“We have reached this significant milestone through a series of respectful and collaborative discussions,” says Arnaud Coville, SkyDrive’s Chief Development Officer. The company is also working with U.S. aviation officials to get approval for flying in American airspace.
Similar Post
The aircraft, named ‘SKYDRIVE’, is currently being tested in the air. The public will get their first look at it during demonstration flights at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.
SkyDrive, led by engineer and CEO Tomohiro Fukuzawa, has been working on this technology since 2014. In 2019, they became the first company to fly a crewed electric aircraft of this type in Japan.
For widespread adoption, several practical aspects need consideration. Cities will need special takeoff and landing areas. The development of supporting infrastructure and establishing operational guidelines will be essential steps before these aircraft can become part of regular transportation.
Based on industry trends, these electric aircraft could offer new options for urban mobility. The successful implementation will require continued collaboration between SkyDrive, government regulators, and city planners to ensure safe and efficient operations.
