Model SD-05 To Demo AAM Tech Through August 24

Japan-based SkyDrive has successfully completed the first demonstration flight of its Model SD-05 at the Expo 2025 being held in Osaka, Japan, until October 13, with flight demonstrations continuing through August 24.

The uncrewed, remotely piloted demo flight was conducted at the Expo Vertiport on July 31 and lasted 3 minutes, reaching an altitude of 4 meters (13 feet). Flight stability was maintained autonomously.

SkyDrive was part of a group of AAM (advanced air mobility) developers selected to demonstrate their technology at the Expo with the theme of showcasing advanced equipment and technology that will shape the future of urban air mobility.

The successful demonstration was one of the company’s milestone development goals and the public demo flights will be performed every Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until August 24.

Certification work on the SkyDrive Model SD-05 is continuing toward its deployment for commercial operation. Collaborations with partners in Japan and other countries is contributing to that goal as well.

In Japan, SkyDrive is working with Osaka Metro Company and the Osaka City authorities to launch commercial eVTOL operations in Osaka’s Morinomiya area in 2028. The company is also partnering with JR Kyushu Railway Company to initiate eVTOL service in Kyushu in the same 2028 timeframe.

Tomohiro Fukuzawa, CEO of SkyDrive said, “The Expo 2025 event is a wonderful opportunity to experience tomorrow’s technology and we are proud to have the chance to show you all a taste of the future through our eVTOL. The successful completion of today’s flight required SkyDrive’s employees and partners to work closely together and overcome various challenges.

“We are all thrilled to see the SKYDRIVE flying over Osaka Bay, and extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has provided us with encouragement and support. As CEO, I would also like to extend my personal thanks to the SkyDrive team.”

“I hope that the spectators gathered at the EXPO vertiport to see our aircraft take off and fly will now find it easier to imagine how eVTOL aircraft flights will in future become a regular part of our daily routine. We will continue to prioritize flight safety, ensuring that visitors to the Expo over the coming weeks can enjoy the experience of seeing the airborne SKYDRIVE.”

FMI:  en.skydrive2020.com/