Osaka Metro and SkyDrive Partner to Launch Urban Air Mobility: The Future of eVTOL

In August 2024, SkyDrive Inc., a leading Japanese eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft manufacturer, and Osaka Metro Co., Ltd., the operator of Osaka’s rapid transit system, announced a strategic partnership to explore the feasibility of integrating eVTOL technology into Osaka’s urban transportation network. This collaboration aims to revolutionize urban mobility by introducing aerial routes that complement existing transit options.

The “Osaka Diamond Routes” Initiative

Building upon their initial agreement, in December 2024, the two companies unveiled plans for the “Osaka Diamond Routes,” a visionary eVTOL network designed to connect four key destinations within Osaka:

Shin-Osaka/Umeda: A major commercial and transportation hub.
Morinomiya: A central area with cultural and historical significance.
Tennoji/Abeno: Known for its shopping districts and landmarks.
Osaka Bay Area: A waterfront zone featuring entertainment and business facilities.

These routes were identified through comprehensive market research as critical nodes for Osaka’s future mobility framework. The initial phase of the service is slated to commence in the Morinomiya area by 2028, with plans for gradual expansion through 2030 and beyond.

Advancing Urban Air Mobility

SkyDrive is at the forefront of developing lightweight, three-seater eVTOL aircraft, envisioning them as integral components of urban transportation systems. Concurrently, Osaka Metro is progressing its “e METRO” Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) initiative, which seeks to integrate various modes of transport—including subways, buses, taxis, and future eVTOL services—to create a more connected and convenient urban environment.

Strategic Collaboration and Future Outlook

Following their agreement in August 2024, SkyDrive and Osaka Metro established an “eVTOL Promotion Office” under the direct supervision of Osaka Metro’s president in October 2024. This office has been instrumental in assessing market demand, identifying potential vertiport locations, and evaluating the commercial feasibility of eVTOL services. The unveiling of the Osaka Diamond Routes represents a significant milestone in their collaborative efforts.

The partnership is committed to working closely with local and national government bodies, including Osaka Prefecture and Osaka City authorities, as well as industry stakeholders, to finalize vertiport locations and establish safe and efficient flight routes. Future phases of the project envision expanding the eVTOL network into Osaka’s suburbs and the greater Kansai region, aligning with the shared vision of enhancing urban mobility and reinforcing Osaka’s reputation as a leading city for innovation and tourism.
Through this collaboration, SkyDrive and Osaka Metro aim to unlock the potential of air mobility, providing passengers with added value through new air transport services and developing an upgraded transport infrastructure that will benefit residents and visitors alike.