Dubai-based helicopter charter company AeroGulf has signed a letter of intent with SkyDrive, a Japanese eVTOL manufacturer, for the purchase of up to 50 SkyDrive eVTOL aircraft.

SkyDrive has been exploring the business development in the overseas markets and potential use cases in the US, Asia Pacific and the Middle East area.

AeroGulf Services, Dubai’s first commercial helicopter operator, provides a wide variety of aviation services, including helicopter charters, oil field transportation, filming and EMS. The company also aims to explore the future business opportunities in the tourism sector using environmentally friendly eVTOL aircraft that are fully electric and emit no CO2 in operation. The compact, three-seat SkyDrive SD-05 is suited for its future business model, which has led to a pre-order agreement for up to 50 units.

Through this business partnership, SkyDrive and AeroGulf Services will work together to explore potential flight routes and practical use cases for commercial eVTOL operations, focusing on exploring revolutionary air mobility business opportunities at Dubai’s tourist destination Palm Jumeirah.

AeroGulf CEO Fahad Mohammad Mir Hashem Khoory comments: “We are thrilled to partner with SkyDrive to bring the future of aviation to Dubai. Our commitment to sustainability and innovation is in perfect harmony with Dubai’s vision for a greener future. With eVTOL technology, we are taking a bold step towards transforming urban mobility while maintaining our dedication to safety, efficiency and exceptional service.”

SkyDrive CEO Tomohiro Fukuzawa adds: “We have been working on market expansion in the US and Asia so far and this collaboration with AeroGulf Services marks our first entry into the Middle Eastern market, a major milestone in bringing our eVTOL business vision to life. AeroGulf Services is the oldest commercial helicopter operator in Dubai, with maintenance expertise that is utilised by the government of the United Arab Emirates. As a company that prioritises safety and security above all, we consider AeroGulf Services to be the ideal partner for our operations in Dubai.

“Dubai is at the forefront of preparing for the operation of eVTOLs and it attracts not only residents but also tourists and business travellers from around the world. In collaboration with AeroGulf Services, we aim to introduce sightseeing flights using our compact SkyDrive eVTOL aircraft, initially around the iconic artificial island of Palm Jumeirah. By offering many people first-hand experiences with our eVTOL, we hope to showcase its value and utility, bringing this groundbreaking form of transportation to a global audience.

“Through this collaboration, AeroGulf Services and SkyDrive will establish a new benchmark for eco-friendly air travel in the region, offering seamless and sustainable aerial experiences for both residents and visitors. The deployment of eVTOL aircraft will not only reduce carbon emissions but also enhance connectivity and accessibility across Dubai’s key destinations.”