SkyDrive Unveils Aircraft as Public Trials Approach
On March 28, 2025, Osaka Metro proudly launched the OSAKAKO Vertiport, a new hub for electric aircraft in time for Expo 2025.
This site, at Chuo Pier, Minato Ward, is set to host SkyDrive’s eVTOL demos during the expo. Important figures like Osaka Metro’s President and SkyDrive’s CEO were present at the opening ceremony. The vertiport is part of Osaka Metro’s plan to enhance city travel with innovative transport options.
SkyDrive and Osaka Metro Join Forces
SkyDrive’s “SKYDRIVE” aircraft will shuttle between Expo and OSAKAKO Vertiport. These flights aim to introduce air mobility to the public and improve urban transit. SkyDrive’s CEO called this moment a key step toward urban air travel: “This is a milestone in our journey to bring urban air mobility closer to everyday life.”
In August 2024, a partnership deal was signed between Osaka Metro and SkyDrive to achieve this goal. After a competitive bid in early 2024, Osaka Metro was chosen to build and run the vertiport.
Isn’t it fascinating how technology keeps changing how we move around?
OSAKAKO Vertiport: What’s Inside?
The vertiport spans 12,000 square meters and includes:
– A hangar for aircraft
– Passenger check-in and boarding areas
– Takeoff and landing pad
It connects eVTOLs with other travel modes like shared bikes and buses. Inside, there’s a simulation of boarding with facial recognition and a mock-up of the aircraft.
Osaka Metro wants people to become familiar with “vertiport” and what eVTOL travel means. “Through the Expo 2025 program, Osaka Metro hopes to promote wider recognition of the word ‘vertiport’ as a term for describing an eVTOL takeoff and landing site,” they said.
Public Events to Kick Off
From mid-April 2025, OSAKAKO Vertiport will hold public events. Visitors can enjoy eVTOL displays, interactive sessions, and a boarding simulation. Reservations are available on Osaka Metro’s website.
Osaka Metro plans to connect eVTOL events with other local happenings, aiming to spread the new tech far and wide. Find more details here:
https://advanced-air-mobility.osakametro.co.jp/
About the Organizations
Osaka Metro operates subway lines and trams in central Osaka, focusing on safe, efficient travel and supporting the city’s growth. SkyDrive, based in Toyota, began its eVTOL project in 2014 and was officially established in 2018. They aim to lead a major mobility revolution and work with aviation bodies in Japan and the US to certify their aircraft. Production of the SKYDRIVE model started in 2024 with Suzuki Motor Corporation.
For further info, visit:
– Osaka Metro: https://www.osakametro.co.jp/en/
– SkyDrive: https://en.skydrive2020.com/
