Japan-based SkyDrive has revealed plans for a network of eVTOL routes in Osaka, developed in partnership with Osaka Metro and JTB.

The proposed Osaka Diamond Routes will connect key destinations in the city, including Shin-Osaka/Umeda, Morinomiya, Tennoji/Abeno and the Osaka Bay Area. These areas have been identified as critical hubs for the city’s future mobility network, with services expected to begin first around Morinomiya by 2028 and to expand gradually further afield beyond 2030.

Osaka Metro, which operates eight subway lines and a driverless tram system, serves around 2.4 million passengers daily and is advancing its urban mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) e-Metro initiative. Its collaboration with SkyDrive will integrate eVTOL flights as part of the initiative. The partners are also focused on finalising vertiport locations, studying commercial feasibility and expanding services to the wider Kansai region.

In addition to SkyDrive’s work on urban routes, the company has united with JTB to create new eVTOL tourism services, to revitalise communities by creating unique travel experiences for both domestic and international visitors. By leveraging SkyDrive’s eVTOL expertise and JTB’s national network, the collaboration will explore offers such as eVTOL sightseeing tours.

Independently, SkyDrive is currently developing its SD-05, a lightweight, three-seater eVTOL aircraft that will play a central role in the company’s future air mobility plans.