Japanese manufacturer SkyDrive , with experience in electric vertical takeoff and landing ( eVTOL ) aircraft, has obtained the G-1 certification basis for the company’s eVTOL from the Japanese Civil Aviation Bureau ( JCAB ), representing a decisive step towards official authorization for commercial operations.
G-1 Certification for the Skydrive eVTOL
The G-1 certification basis details the specific requirements and steps necessary for the ‘SKYDRIVE’ , the three-seat eVTOL , to obtain type certification. This agreement is the result of months of collaboration between SkyDrive and the JCAB, who have worked together to define the airworthiness and performance criteria that will ensure the safety and efficiency of the aircraft.
The company is looking to make its eVTOL aircraft a common transportation option in cities of the future. As the company moves forward with flight testing, it aims to unveil the ‘SKYDRIVE’ at the 2025 World Expo in Osaka , where the aircraft will conduct demonstration flights for an international audience.
With the issuance of the G-1 foundation , the company has made progress toward its goal of certifying its aircraft for commercial operations. While regulations for eVTOL aircraft continue to evolve, this agreement with the JCAB establishes greater clarity and flexibility in the certification process.
Toyota and Suzuki’s support in production
Starting in March 2024, SkyDrive has started production of the ‘SKYDRIVE’ in collaboration with Suzuki Motor Corporation , its official production partner. This strategic support from Toyota reinforces SkyDrive’s efforts to realize its vision of a future where flying vehicles are an integral part of urban transportation.
A demonstration of the aircraft. Source: SkyDrive Inc
In addition to its collaboration with the JCAB in Japan, the company is working closely with the US Federal Aviation Administration ( FAA ) to ensure its certification process aligns with international standards. This simultaneous approach in both countries will facilitate the implementation of global commercial operations of its eVTOL aircraft.
We are pleased to announce that JCAB has issued the G-1 certification basis that will apply to our first commercial eVTOL aircraft. We have reached this important milestone through a series of respectful and collaborative discussions with JCAB.
The issuance of this certification basis represents the culmination of significant efforts invested over several months. We are also pleased with the recent progress made in our validation project with the FAA.
Currently undergoing an extensive series of flight tests, our prototype aircraft continues to accumulate valuable data as we steadily move toward upcoming demonstration flights at the Osaka Expo.
As we progress through our certification roadmap and showcase our aircraft’s capabilities to the public, 2025 is set to be an important year for SkyDrive. We are delighted that the year has started so well.
Arnaud Coville, Chief Development Officer of SkyDrive.
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Source and photos: SkyDrive
