Will SkyDrive's SD-05 eVTOL Aircraft Achieve Japan's Certification Milestone?

The Japanese startup SkyDrive is nearing a critical phase in its certification journey for the three-seat SD-05 electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The company is working closely with the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) to finalize the means of compliance for type certification. This final agreement marks a significant SD-05 aircraft milestone toward commercial operation, which SkyDrive targets for 2028.

SkyDrive is also pursuing validation from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States. This dual-certification strategy aims to position the SD-05 for global deployment in the emerging urban air mobility (UAM) market. The company submitted its type certificate application to the FAA through the JCAB in April 2024.

Certification Progress and Specifications

The JCAB issued a G-1 certification basis for the SD-05 in February 2025. This agreement sets the specific airworthiness and performance criteria required for the type certification of the three-seat SD-05 multicopter. The certification basis utilizes the JCAB Airworthiness Inspection Manual Part II, which provides flexibility for new aircraft designs.

Flight Testing and Design

SkyDrive conducted hundreds of hours of flight testing with its SD-05 prototype throughout 2025. These tests led to minor adjustments in the rotors and flight control laws to enhance stability. The company's goal is to avoid further major design changes before the final certification terms are settled.

The SD-05 is designed to carry one pilot and two passengers. It features twelve motor-propeller units, offering safety through distributed electric propulsion (DEP). The aircraft is intended for short-range air taxi services, with a maximum cruise speed of 100 km/h (62 mph) and an approximate range of 10 to 15 kilometers.

Industry Impact and Public Acceptance

The Japanese startup SkyDrive has been actively working to build public trust in electric vertical takeoff and landing technology. The company performed numerous public demonstrations at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka over six weeks. SkyDrive CEO Tomohiro Fukuzawa noted that these demonstrations introduced the concept to millions of visitors, which should improve public acceptance.

• Manufacturing and Partnerships: Production of the SD-05 began in March 2024 at a plant owned by its official production partner, Suzuki Motor Company. Key suppliers include Thales for the flight control system and Electric Power Systems for the batteries.
• Future Operations: SkyDrive is partnering with Osaka Metro to plan potential vertiports at city stations. This infrastructure focus is crucial for integrating UAM into existing public transport networks, paving the way for future air travel in Japan.

Further public demonstration flights are scheduled for February 2026 in Tokyo. This event, in partnership with the Tokyo metropolitan government, will include ground operations like passenger check-in. The year 2026 is viewed as a critical preparation year for the realization of eVTOL operations.

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