SkyDrive and JR East Begin Discussions to Explore eVTOL Experiences at AZUMA FARM KOIWAI

TOYOTA, Japan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SkyDrive Inc. (“SkyDrive”), a leading eVTOL (*1) aircraft manufacturer based in Japan, is pleased to announce that it has initiated discussions with East Japan Railway Company ("JR East") to provide eVTOL experiences at a premium hotel "AZUMA FARM KOIWAI." Scheduled to open in spring 2026 at Koiwai Farm, the hotel aims to offer guests a unique opportunity to experience air travel as part of its exclusive services.

SkyDrive is developing a lightweight, three-seater eVTOL aircraft that will play a key future role in the coming urban transport revolution. As eVTOL flights become a regular part of city life, SkyDrive seeks to lead this market transformation.

JR East is dedicated to crafting travel experiences that highlight the diverse appeal of local regions, including nature, cuisine, industry, and tradition. In line with this vision, JR East launched a new hotel brand called "AZUMA FARM" in January 2025. The first hotel under this brand, "AZUMA FARM KOIWAI," will open in spring 2026 at Koiwai Farm in Iwate Prefecture.

SkyDrive is collaborating with JR East to explore the possibility of offering air taxi experiences as a valuable enhancement for guests at "AZUMA FARM KOIWAI." Both companies are currently considering plans for an eVTOL route connecting Morioka city, a key access point to Koiwai Farm, to the hotel as well as tourism flights. This innovative transportation option would enable guests to enjoy stunning views of Mount Iwate and the beautiful surrounding landscapes while traveling in privacy and comfort, making travel time a truly memorable experience. SkyDrive and JR East will continue to collaborate closely and deepen discussions of essential factors such as landing and takeoff locations, flight routes, and ticket pricing.

About SkyDrive Inc.

SkyDrive is an eVTOL company aiming “to take the lead in the once-in-a-century mobility revolution”. The company began testing eVTOL prototypes in 2014 prior to official incorporation in 2018. Under its future vision for urban transportation, flying in eVTOLs will become a regular part of city life. In 2019, SkyDrive became the first company to fly a crewed eVTOL in Japan. As of 2024, SkyDrive is working with civil aviation authorities in Japan and the US to acquire certification for “SKYDRIVE”, the company’s latest eVTOL product. SKYDRIVE will fly at Expo 2025 in Osaka, a major international event. SkyDrive began production of “SKYDRIVE” in March 2024 at a plant owned by Suzuki Motor Corporation, SkyDrive's official production partner. SkyDrive is headquartered in Toyota, Aichi Prefecture, and led by CEO Tomohiro Fukuzawa, an engineer and entrepreneur.
For more information, please visit: https://en.skydrive2020.com/

Editor’s Note:
(*1) “eVTOL” is an abbreviation for electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing. As the name suggests, eVTOL aircraft can take off and land without a runway. eVTOLs are powered by electricity and incorporate advanced, automatic, flight control technology.