Toyota, Japan, December 2, 2024 – SkyDrive Inc. (“SkyDrive”), a leading eVTOL (*1) manufacturer based in Japan, announced today that it has signed an agreement with JTB Corp. (“JTB”), a leading provider of travel solutions in Japan, to create new tourism value using eVOTLs. The partnership aims to contribute to regional revitalization by introducing eVTOL tourism services to local companies and municipalities.
SkyDrive has been developing its eVTOL aircraft “SKYDRIVE (*2)” with the vision of a future where flying in eVTOLs will become a regular part of city life. The company has been chosen to participate in the Advanced Air Mobility project at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan (*3).
JTB, a leading travel solutions provider in Japan, is dedicated to
revitalizing local communities by enhancing the flow of people, goods, and
commerce. Through the new agreement, JTB and SkyDrive will collaborate to
explore the commercialization and social implementation of eVTOL. This
partnership leverages SkyDrive’s expertise in eVTOLs and JTB’s robust product
planning capabilities and national network.
The primary focus of this alliance is to develop a viable business
model for eVTOL, identify regions with high potential for success, and create
value-added tourism products. SkyDrive and JTB aim to offer novel tourism
experiences that cater to both domestic travelers and international visitors to
Japan, such as eVTOL sightseeing and more efficient tour itineraries. The
partnership seeks to invigorate local economies and enhance the vibrancy of
local communities in collaboration with local enterprises and governments.
About SkyDrive Inc.
SkyDrive is an eVTOL company aiming “to take the lead in the once-in-a-century mobility revolution”. The company began testing eVTOL prototypes in 2014 prior to official incorporation in 2018. Under its future vision for urban transportation, flying in eVTOLs will become a regular part of city life. In 2019, SkyDrive became the first company to fly a crewed eVTOL in Japan. As of 2024, SkyDrive is working with civil aviation authorities in Japan and the US to acquire certification for “SKYDRIVE”, the company’s latest eVTOL product. In April 2025, SKYDRIVE will fly at Expo 2025 in Osaka, a major international event. SkyDrive began production of “SKYDRIVE” in March 2024 at a plant owned by Suzuki Motor Corporation, SkyDrive’s official production partner. SkyDrive is headquartered in Toyota, Aichi Prefecture, and led by CEO Tomohiro Fukuzawa, an engineer and entrepreneur.
For more information, please visit: https://en.skydrive2020.com/
About JTB Corp.
JTB has defined its business domain as “Exchange and Creation Business; Bringing People, Places and Possibilities Together”. JTB helps solve issues faced by local communities and tourism businesses by utilizing its nationwide network to expand the number of people interacting with one another through the creation of various human, logistical, and commercial flows. We aim to connect people to people, people to places, and people to things, creating new value, and fostering innovations in the region through the power of digital and human resources.
Editor’s Note:
(*1) “eVTOL” is an abbreviation for electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing. As the name suggests, eVTOL aircraft can take off and land without a runway. eVTOLs are powered by electricity and incorporate advanced, automatic, flight control technology.
(*2) “SKYDRIVE” is a product name of SkyDrive Model SD-05.
(*3) The Expo related press release: https://en.skydrive2020.com/archives/8844
Contact:
Public Relations
SkyDrive Inc.
Email: info@skydrive.co.jp
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SkyDrive and JTB Sign Agreement to Explore eVTOL Tourism Services and Revitalize Local Communities_Dec2_2024