SkyDrive and MASC Partner for eVTOL Operations in Japan by 2028

On March 6, 2026, Japanese electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) manufacturer SkyDrive Inc. and the Okayama-based research group MASC formalized their Partnerships by signing a Letter of Intent (LOI) for the purchase of two SkyDrive SD-05 aircraft. According to the official press release, this agreement cements pricing and Delivery schedules, targeting a commercial service Launch in 2028.

The collaboration focuses on pioneering advanced air mobility (AAM) in Japan’s Inland Sea (Setouchi) region. Initial operations will center on aerial sightseeing tours, with long-term plans to expand into essential community services such as medical transport and logistics.

This development marks a significant step for the Japanese eVTOL sector, transitioning from feasibility studies to concrete operational planning following SkyDrive’s demonstration flights at Expo 2025 in Osaka.

Transitioning to Commercial Operations in 2028

The LOI signed between SkyDrive and MASC builds upon a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) initially established in November 2023. The agreement specifies the delivery of two multi-rotor SD-05 aircraft, designed for short-haul trips, to MASC in 2028.

Both organizations aim to enter these aircraft into commercial service within the same year. MASC President Minehito Inoue emphasized the significance of this timeline in the company’s press release, noting the shift from testing to real-world application.

“The eVTOL industry in Japan is moving out of the feasibility phase and into the operational phase. Our purchase of these aircraft is more than just a simple commercial transaction, it is an important milestone in the roll-out of a feasible, working model of eVTOL operations in our region,” Inoue stated.

The SCAI28 Initiative and Planned Routes

The deployment of the SD-05 aircraft is a foundational element of MASC’s “SCAI28” (Setouchi Community AAM Infrastructure 2028) business plan. As detailed in the provided research report, this initiative is designed to stimulate local tourist-based businesses through the integration of air mobility.

Initial tourism routes will highlight the region’s geography. Planned flights include a circular route over the Kasaoka Islands to showcase the bay’s multi-island beauty, as well as scenic flights over Kojima and Washuzan. Future proposals aim to establish island corridors connecting the beach resort of Ushimado to Shodo Island, and Uno to the renowned “Art Island” of Naoshima.

Addressing Regional Demographic Challenges

Beyond tourism, the partnership positions eVTOL technology as a practical solution to pressing demographic and geographic challenges in rural Japan. The Setouchi region is currently navigating the impacts of a declining and aging population, which threatens the sustainability of traditional public transport networks.

The runway-independent capabilities of the SD-05 will be utilized to transport medical professionals to remote island communities and provide vital logistics services to underserved mountainous and coastal areas. The overarching goal is to establish a low-altitude social, cultural, and economic zone that integrates seamlessly with existing ground and ferry transport.

“As a new means of air mobility, we are confident that our eVTOLs will, in the near future, make a significant contribution to the growth of tourism in the islands of the Inland Sea, while also benefitting local residents in other ways too, as our aircraft can help resolve various issues faced by these communities,” said Tomohiro Fukuzawa, Founder and CEO of SkyDrive.

AirPro News analysis

We observe that SkyDrive’s strategy of partnering with regional consortiums like MASC represents a pragmatic approach to AAM integration. By aligning eVTOL deployment with local economic revitalization and essential services, rather than focusing solely on urban air taxi markets, SkyDrive is building a use case that directly addresses Japan’s unique demographic hurdles. The successful transition from the Expo 2025 demonstration phase to a formalized LOI indicates a maturing regulatory and commercial environment for eVTOLs in the Japanese Market-Analysis.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What aircraft is MASC purchasing?
MASC is purchasing two SkyDrive Model SD-05 aircraft, which are multi-rotor eVTOLs designed for short-haul flights.

When will commercial flights begin?
According to the LOI, delivery and the launch of commercial services are targeted for 2028.

Where will these flights operate?
Initial operations are planned for Japan‘s Inland Sea (Setouchi) region, focusing on areas like the Kasaoka Islands, Kojima, and Washuzan.

Sources

• SkyDrive Official Press Release