FlyBlade India and Jaunt Air Mobility have launched a strategic partnership aimed at introducing eVTOL aircraft operations in India and the subcontinent region by 2027. Jaunt is an AIRO Group company headed by Indian-American businessman Chirinjeev Kathuria. The partnership includes Blade India's intended acquisition of 150 Jaunt Journey aircraft, with an option to order another 100 aircraft to meet the projected demand over the next decade.

As the third largest aviation market in the world, India is undergoing a major transformation with a growing need for seamless and faster connectivity to connect passengers in urban areas. Blade India has established short haul mobility services in cities nationwide while Jaunt is pursuing a Transport Category certification for its all-electric Jaunt Journey aircraft, equivalent to that of commercial airliners.

The companies expect to collaborate in specific areas that are critical to support future short haul mobility operations. Their plans include, in particular, Blade India working with Jaunt and its partners to explore development of key infrastructure capabilities in aircraft charging and energy distribution technologies. In turn, Jaunt intends to use Blade India's existing short haul operational and customer experience to support the development of the Jaunt Journey aircraft and its integration into the Indian airspace.

Blade India managing director Amit Dutta says: “With its vast expanse and increasing congestion, India is one of the biggest markets in the world for AAM solutions. With Blade's first mover advantage in nurturing the urban air mobility ecosystem in India and Jaunt's technical expertise, this partnership is well poised to pioneer the transition to electric and revolutionise the transportation system.”

"We are thrilled to partner with an exceptional Blade India team to pursue the launch of a new form of urban air travel in India and the subcontinent region," adds Jaunt CCO Simon Briceno. "Our collaboration with Blade India and our clear path towards aircraft certification means that the Indian public will soon be able to benefit from the development of a new safe, affordable and accessible mode of transportation."

In September 2022, Blade India signed a purchase order for up to 200 of Eve's eVTOL, initially underwriting 50,000 hours of flight time per year in the region.