Japanese electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) developer SkyDrive is expanding its air taxi operations in South Carolina with a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with SAI Flight and Greenville Downtown Airport. The agreement includes the pre-order of up to 10 SKYDRIVE eVTOL aircraft, marking a significant step in the company’s U.S. expansion. SkyDrive aims to develop practical use cases for eVTOLs, including air taxis, cargo, and emergency services, by collaborating with local airports and businesses.
SkyDrive, a relative newcomer to the sustainable aviation sector, has quickly gained momentum globally despite the challenges of scaling production. With support from manufacturing partner Suzuki, which is set to produce the aircraft in Japan, SkyDrive is moving forward with its U.S. strategy. The company established its U.S. headquarters in South Carolina in 2023, securing its first pre-order with Austin Aviation for five eVTOL aircraft in the state.
Under the newly signed MoU, SkyDrive, SAI Flight, and Greenville Downtown Airport will work together to design air mobility solutions for the region. The goal is to create routes connecting Greenville’s city center with Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport and other local destinations, enhancing transportation options for residents and visitors. The partnership, which is backed by local and state governments, will help position Greenville as a leader in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions.
SAI Flight, one of the largest private jet charter companies in South Carolina, is committed to integrating the eVTOL technology into its operations, using its existing Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate. The addition of SkyDrive’s eVTOLs will allow SAI to offer new services as soon as the aircraft are delivered. Greenville Downtown Airport, the busiest general aviation airport in the state, is set to become a key hub for South Carolina’s AAM ecosystem, furthering the state’s push for innovation in aviation and economic growth.
South Carolina Secretary of Commerce Harry Lightsey expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “SkyDrive’s Advanced Air Mobility solutions are set to transform the future of aviation, and we are excited to see this pioneering technology take root in our state.” As SkyDrive continues its expansion, it aims to create jobs and foster economic development while contributing to the evolution of air travel in the U.S.
