At least ten SkyDrive electric vehicle takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft will make their way to the Carolinas in the coming years.
Greenville, South Carolina may be one of the first places where Americans can ride in these revolutionary air taxis. Three parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to materialize this deal last Thursday.
Coming to America: SkyDrive eVTOL Aircraft
Japanese eVTOL manufacturer SkyDrive Inc. has issued a press release to document a pivotal order from America. The company inked a deal with private jet charter company SAI Flight and Greenville Downtown Airport in South Carolina.
At least ten air taxis have been placed on order, and have yet to be assembled. According to the press release, the airport plans to use the taxis for transportation, cargo deliveries, and emergency services.
The airport is in talks with local businesses as well as governing bodies about the possibilities for where the taxis can be flown to from the airport. Possible locations so far include Downtown Greenville’s city center and Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport.
SkyDrive CEO Tomohiro Fukuzawa shared his excitement about the collaboration in the press release:
“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.”
South Carolina Welcomes eVTOL
President of SAI Flight Hunter Cuthberson III also had positive remarks to share during the announcement:
“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 Director James D. Stephens added that the airport is ‘honored’ to be leading the forefront in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM).
State Secretary of Commerce Harry Lightsey also had high hopes on using the taxis in South Carolina. He envisions the taxis providing convenience to travelers looking for rides to and from South Carolina airports.
Currently, SkyDrive gives no timetable for when SAI Flight can receive these eVTOL aircrafts.
Southwest Airlines and United Airlines have previously placed orders on Archer Aviation ‘Midnight’ air taxis. Archer is expected to deliver air taxis to United’s hub in Chicago, Illinois at some point in 2025.
Credit: avgeekery.com
