Japanese eVTOL manufacturer SkyDrive is expanding its efforts to introduce urban air mobility across Japan through strategic collaborations with Japan Railways Group subsidiaries East Japan Railway Company (JR East) and Kyushu Railway Company (JR Kyushu). The partnerships aim to explore eVTOL air taxi services for both premium travel experiences and regional connectivity.

With JR East, SkyDrive is exploring air taxi services for Azuma Farm Koiwai, a luxury hotel opening in 2026 at Koiwai Farm in Iwate Prefecture. Potential routes include flights connecting Morioka City to the hotel, as well as scenic tourism flights over Mount Iwate. Discussions are underway regarding flight paths, landing sites and pricing.

Separately, SkyDrive and JR Kyushu, in partnership with Oita Prefecture, are examining the feasibility of eVTOL services within Beppu City and scenic flights over Beppu Bay, with plans to expand to other resort areas from 2030. The companies aim to offer fares competitive with traditional taxis.

Both partnerships will focus on site selection, commercial viability and regulatory planning. SkyDrive’s SD-05 aircraft will play a central role in these efforts as the company works toward launching eVTOL operations in the coming years.