FAA accepts SkyDrive's eVTOL certification application

To prepare for its entry into the U.S. market and commercial operations, SkyDrive established a local subsidiary in 2023. The Japanese company says it is now actively collaborating with local customers.

SkyDrive Inc has submitted type certificate application of its eponymous three-seat eVTOL to the Federal Aviation Administration through the Japan’s Civil Aviation Bureau. The application was accepted on April 29, 2024.

Since its founding, one of SkyDrive’s core ambitions has been to introduce Japanese-origin air mobility solutions to the world, mirroring the success and admiration the Japanese automotive industry has attained globally. To prepare for its entry into the U.S. market and commercial operations, SkyDrive established a local subsidiary in 2023. SkyDrive says it is now actively collaborating with local customers to develop practical use cases and tailor its offerings to meet the unique needs of the American market.

Guided by the expertise of the JCAB, SkyDrive has initiated the crucial step of seeking type certification for its eVTOL aircraft. With their support, the company has submitted its application to the FAA, marking the beginning of its certification journey in the U.S. market. SkyDrive’s goal is to obtain FAA type certification, building upon the anticipated JCAB type certification in 2026 or later. This milestone will enable SkyDrive to bring its innovative aircraft to the American skies, showcasing the best of Japanese technology and design to a global audience.

Tomohiro Fukuzawa, CEO of SkyDrive, says, "Our development team has been working on both aircraft development and type certification activities in parallel. We are very grateful to the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau for supporting our application and looking forward to a successful FAA type certification. This collaboration allows us to advance our certification processes in both Japan and the United States simultaneously. With the FAA's experience in the certification process of several eVTOLs and the JCAB already advancing the certification of our aircraft, we aim to work together to create a future where our eVTOL can operate commercially around the world."