The Japanese eVTOL developer, SkyDrivecontinues to grow and expand its order book. In 2023, the company chose South Carolina as the base for its United States operations. This strategic decision marks the start of a new era for urban air transport.

Strategic partnerships for the development of eVTOLs

SkyDrive recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with one of the largest private jet charter companies in the state. This agreement includes the potential purchase of ten eVTOL SKYDRIVE aircraft. This partnership demonstrates SkyDrive’s commitment to establishing air taxi operations in the region.

Although SkyDrive is still a new player in the sustainable aviation segment, the company is managing to rapidly expand its customer base globally. To support its eVTOL production, SkyDrive collaborates with Suzukiwhich agreed to manufacture the aircraft in Japan.

A promising expansion in South Carolina

In July 2023, SkyDrive announced the opening of its US headquarters in South Carolina, accompanied by news of a first eVTOL pre-order. Austin Aviation Inc. then expressed its intention to purchase up to five SKYDRIVE aircraft, marking the start of a fruitful collaboration.

The company recently announced a new pre-order from a South Carolina-based company, which opens up business opportunities with the airport. Greenville Downtown.

Collaboration with SAI Flight and Greenville Airport

In a statement, SkyDrive revealed that it had signed a Memorandum of Understanding with SAI Flight and Greenville Downtown Airport to develop business opportunities around eVTOL aircraft. This agreement will allow the three organizations to:

• Develop concrete use cases for eVTOLs, starting from Greenville Downtown Airport.
• Collaborate with the Greenville City Economic Development Corporation and the Greenville Area Development Corporation.
• Design convenient routes to downtown and Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport.

This initiative positions Greenville as a leader among the state’s airports in integrating Advanced Air Mobility solutions.

Towards diversified opportunities

The planned eVTOL network will explore opportunities beyond passenger transportation. Organizations are also considering testing the feasibility of advanced air cargo ship and emergency services.

SAI Flight, one of the largest private jet rental and management companies in South Carolina, has already committed to a pre-order for ten SKYDRIVE eVTOL aircraft. Thanks to his Air Carrier Certificate Part 135SAI Flight will be able to immediately integrate eVTOL services into its operations upon delivery of the aircraft.

Greenville Downtown Airport: A Hub for the Future

Greenville Downtown Airport (GMU) is the busiest general aviation airport in the state. Through its partnership with SkyDrive and SAI Flight, GMU is positioning itself as a central hub for the future of Advanced Air Mobility in South Carolina.

SkyDrive is committed to continuing to work with the State of South Carolina to expand its eVTOL operations and create jobs in the region. This promising dynamic paves the way for a future where air travel becomes a daily reality for residents and visitors.