“Osaka Diamond Routes” to Offer Scenic Air Travel and Enhanced Urban Mobility
SkyDrive Inc. and Osaka Metro Co., Ltd. have revealed plans for the “Osaka Diamond Routes,” a future eVTOL network designed to enhance mobility in Osaka, Japan. The announcement was made at the “Osaka Roundtable” and outlines plans to connect four key areas in the city: Shin-Osaka/Umeda, Morinomiya, Tennoji/Abeno, and the Osaka Bay Area.
This partnership aims to launch initial services in the Morinomiya area by 2028, with phased expansions planned through 2030 and beyond.
The Vision for Urban Air Mobility
SkyDrive is developing a three-seater eVTOL aircraft designed to revolutionize urban transportation. These lightweight aircraft aim to integrate seamlessly into daily city life, offering efficient and exciting travel options.
Osaka Metro, a cornerstone of Osaka’s transportation network, serves 2.4 million passengers daily through its subway and automated tram systems. It is advancing its “e METRO” initiative, a Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) platform that integrates multiple transportation modes for a more connected city.
The two companies signed an agreement in August 2024 to explore the commercialization of eVTOL services. Since then, Osaka Metro has established an “eVTOL Promotion Office” to assess market demand, identify potential vertiport locations, and evaluate operational feasibility.
Highlighting Osaka’s Landmarks from Above
The proposed routes are designed to showcase Osaka’s vibrant cityscapes and connect major tourist destinations. The experience promises passengers stunning aerial views while traveling in privacy and comfort.
According to the announcement, “SkyDrive’s eVTOL will transform intra-urban journeys into exciting and memorable experiences, giving passengers the opportunity to enjoy the city’s stunning aerial views while flying in privacy and comfort.”
Next Steps for Implementation
SkyDrive and Osaka Metro are working closely with local government and other stakeholders to finalize vertiport locations and establish safe and efficient flight routes. After launching the initial routes, the companies plan to expand the service to surrounding suburbs and the broader Kansai region.
Their joint efforts aim to unlock new possibilities in air mobility. “Together, the two companies seek to unlock the potential of air mobility and provide passengers with added value through new air transport services, developing an upgraded transport infrastructure that will enhance Osaka’s reputation as a leading city for innovation and tourism,” the companies stated.
About SkyDrive and Osaka Metro
SkyDrive has been at the forefront of eVTOL development since its incorporation in 2018, achieving milestones such as the first crewed eVTOL flight in Japan. The company is now working toward certification for its latest aircraft, “SKYDRIVE,” and will feature its product at Expo 2025 in Osaka.
Osaka Metro operates a 137.8-kilometer transit network, playing a vital role in Osaka’s mobility. The company is committed to improving urban transportation while supporting the city’s growth as an international hub.
For more details, visit SkyDrive and Osaka Metro.
Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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