U.S: SkyDrive, SAI Flight “Unveil Plans for Commercial Electric Air Taxi Routes in South Carolina, Confirm Pre-Order of 10 eVTOL Aircraft”
Japan-based eVTOL company, SkyDrive and SAI Flight, a leading private jet charter company from South Carolina, U.S, alongside Greenville Downtown Airport, the state’s busiest general aviation hub, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly develop innovative business opportunities, reports a press release.
Utilising SkyDrive’s eVTOL aircraft experience, this collaboration is to focus on advancing air-cargo, air-taxi and emergency service use cases, “paving the way for a new era of efficient and versatile intra-community air travel,” states the release. The Japanese company has been actively expanding into the American market after establishing a base in early 2023.
Under the agreement, the three partners will collaborate “to develop real-life use cases for the eVTOL, originating from Greenville Downtown Airport with support from both the City’s Economic Development and Area Development Corporations. They are working closely with local and state governments, as well as businesses, to design practical routes such as to the city centre and the Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport, which will enhance travel options for community residents and visitors,” continues the release. This will position Greenville as a leader among state airports in the integration of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions.
Meanwhile, SAI Flight has made a commitment to the future of air mobility by placing a pre-order for 10 SkyDrive eVTOL aircraft.With its Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate, SAI is uniquely positioned to integrate electric air taxi services into its existing operations, offering on-demand, flexible air mobility solutions.
With a strong presence in South Carolina, “the company has collaborated closely with the state government, major airports and key stakeholders, including airline companies, to forge strategic partnerships for the commercial adoption of its eVTOL technology,” adds the release. “Building on these efforts, a new alliance with its two partners marks a significant step forward, as they work together on identifying, developing, and commercialising practical air routes within the Greenville community, paving the way for the future of Advanced Air Mobility in the region.”
Tomohiro Fukuzawa, CEO of SkyDrive, commented, “This partnership presents a valuable opportunity to accelerate our expansion and bring AAM solutions to the region. Moving forward, we will continue to deepen our cooperation with local partners, while making strategic preparations to fully realise our innovative business model.”
Tomohiro Fukuzawa
Hunter Cuthbertson III, President of SAI Flight, remarked, “We view this collaboration as a vital step toward enhancing our own business model and delivering greater value to customers. We are positioned to offer cutting-edge, sustainable air travel solutions that complement our existing services.”
He continued, “This partnership not only allows us to expand our range of on-demand transportation options, but also aligns with our commitment to advancing sustainable practices in the aviation sector.”
SAI Flight Services will lead as the primary service provider, overseeing operations and maintenance, “while ensuring a seamless and reliable service for all eVTOL operations, solidifying its position as a key player in the future of AAM,” concludes the release.
For more information
https://www.greenvilledowntownairport.com
(Top image credit: SkyDrive)
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