Japanese eVTOL manufacturer SkyDrive has partnered with India’s JetSetGo Aviation Services to explore commercial eVTOL operations in Gujarat and potentially beyond. As part of the agreement, JetSetGo has pre-ordered 50 SkyDrive SD-05 aircraft, positioning itself at the forefront of sustainable air mobility in India. The partnership was facilitated by Suzuki Motor Corporation, which has been collaborating with SkyDrive since 2022 to assess the Indian market.

The initiative will evaluate the viability of eVTOL services in Ahmedabad and other locations across Gujarat, addressing key challenges such as extreme urban congestion and transport-related greenhouse gas emissions.

Tomohiro Fukuzawa, CEO of SkyDrive, says: "Since 2022, we have been collaborating with Suzuki Motor Corporation to explore the Indian market and assess the potential for the development of innovative eVTOL services. Our partnership with JetSetGo, which will initially focus on opportunities in the State of Gujarat, marks a significant step forward for SkyDrive's eVTOL business in India. Together, we aim to tackle some of India's pressing mobility-related challenges, including the high level of transport-related emissions and the inefficiencies of urban traffic congestion."

Kanika Tekriwal, CEO and co-founder JetSetGo, adds: "We're really excited to team up with SkyDrive on this incredible journey. At JetSetGo, we've always believed in pushing the envelope when it comes to aviation, bringing new, sustainable solutions to India. This partnership takes that belief to the next level. By working with SkyDrive, we're tackling real challenges like urban congestion and emissions, while also making air travel more efficient, accessible and eco-friendly."

The partnership is expected to serve as a foundation for India’s eVTOL ecosystem, offering an eco-friendly, fast and accessible alternative to traditional urban transport.