New partnership introduces plans for eVTOL-based air travel, including a pre-order for 10 aircraft
SkyDrive Inc., a Japanese electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft manufacturer, has partnered with South Carolina-based SAI Flight and Greenville Downtown Airport (GMU) to explore commercial air taxi routes and other innovative applications. The collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), aims to develop eVTOL use cases, including air cargo, emergency services, and short-haul passenger transport.
Building the Future of Air Travel in Greenville
The initiative focuses on establishing air travel routes originating from GMU, South Carolina’s busiest general aviation hub. These routes will connect key locations such as the Greenville city center and Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport. The project has strong support from local and state governments and organizations like the Greenville City Economic Development Corporation and the Greenville Area Development Corporation.
Tomohiro Fukuzawa, CEO of SkyDrive Inc., expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration:
“This partnership marks a significant milestone in our efforts to drive business growth in South Carolina, where we have been actively expanding since 2023. It presents a valuable opportunity to accelerate our expansion and bring Advanced Air Mobility solutions to the region. We are deeply grateful to Greenville Downtown Airport and SAI Flight for their support and collaboration. Moving forward, we will continue to deepen our cooperation with local partners, while making strategic preparations to fully realize our innovative business model.”
SAI Flight’s Commitment to Advanced Air Mobility
SAI Flight, a leading private jet charter operator in South Carolina, has pre-ordered 10 SkyDrive eVTOL aircraft. With its Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate, SAI Flight plans to incorporate eVTOL services into its operations, offering flexible and sustainable air mobility solutions.
Hunter Cuthbertson III, President of SAI Flight, stated:
“At SAI Flight, we see this partnership as a vital step toward enhancing our business model and delivering greater value to our customers. By joining forces with SkyDrive and Greenville Downtown Airport, we are positioned to offer cutting-edge, sustainable air travel solutions that complement our existing services. This collaboration 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.”
Greenville Downtown Airport: A Hub for Innovation
As the primary location for these efforts, GMU is poised to become a central hub for Advanced Air Mobility in South Carolina. With its strategic location and existing infrastructure, GMU is exploring the requirements for integrating eVTOL aircraft into its operations.
James D. Stephens, GMU’s Airport Director, shared his vision:
“Greenville Downtown Airport (GMU) is proud to be a key partner in this groundbreaking collaboration, which will set the stage for a new era of air mobility in South Carolina. By working alongside SkyDrive and SAI Flight, we are excited to lead the charge in bringing Advanced Air Mobility to life, providing greater convenience, efficiency, and environmental responsibility to travelers and businesses across the region.”
Support from South Carolina’s Government
The South Carolina Department of Commerce has supported SkyDrive’s expansion in the state, helping to create an environment conducive to innovation and economic growth.
Harry Lightsey, Secretary of Commerce, emphasized the importance of the partnership:
“For the past two years, we have proudly partnered with SkyDrive in the Lowcountry, as they exemplify South Carolina’s vision of being the new home of American innovation. 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.”
A Step Toward Sustainable Air Mobility
The collaboration among SkyDrive, SAI Flight, and Greenville Downtown Airport represents a significant step toward the adoption of electric air travel in South Carolina. With plans to introduce eVTOL aircraft and develop supporting infrastructure, the partnership aims to make air mobility more accessible, efficient, and environmentally friendly for the community.
For more information about the companies involved, visit SkyDrive Inc., SAI Flight, and Greenville Downtown Airport.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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