Toyota-based eVTOL manufacturer partners with HondaJet and Bell 429 operator JBZ to build a commercial framework for its 2028 launch.
SkyDrive Inc. has signed a memorandum of understanding with Japan Biz Aviation Co., Ltd., the Toyota-based eVTOL manufacturer announced July 9, 2026. Japan Biz Aviation, known as JBZ, currently operates the HondaJet and Bell 429 helicopters and will help design the commercial operations framework for SkyDrive eVTOL flights in Japan. The agreement follows SkyDrive’s first Japanese helicopter operator deal signed earlier this year.
Why SkyDrive needs an operations partner
SkyDrive holds cumulative orders for 427 aircraft, including 354 pre-orders and 73 basic purchase agreements, according to the company. That figure includes a 20-unit order from Dubai’s AeroGulf Services. Most overseas buyers already hold an air operator’s certificate. Domestic buyers, however, include rail companies and other parties without an AOC.
To close that gap, SkyDrive plans to contract experienced operators to support commercial flights. The JBZ agreement is the company’s newest such MoU. The two parties will discuss aircraft ownership and operations schemes and develop a roadmap with a specific entry-into-service timeline.
Leadership on the SkyDrive JBZ partnership
“I am delighted that we have been able to sign this MoU with JBZ, a specialist operator of business aircraft, including rotorcraft,” said Tomohiro Fukuzawa, chief executive of SkyDrive. Helping players from various industries “purchase and fly eVTOL” is core to ensuring widespread uptake of the technology across Japan, he added.
Shin Koizumi, representative director of JBZ, said the company is “extremely honored” to sign the MoU. The combination of SkyDrive’s technology and JBZ’s operational knowledge will move the partners toward introducing advanced air mobility to Japanese passengers, he said.
Road to a 2028 commercial launch
SkyDrive is pursuing type certification with civil aviation authorities in Japan and the United States, targeting a 2028 service entry. Production of the SKYDRIVE aircraft began in March 2024 at a Suzuki Motor Corporation plant. The company showcased the eVTOL with demonstration flights at the 2025 Osaka Expo.
JBZ, based at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport, operates under Tokyo Civil Aviation Bureau permission No. 29 and is a member of the Japan General Aviation Service group.
More information is available at SkyDrive.
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Ian McNabb is a journalist focusing on drone technology and lifestyle content at Dronelife. He is based between Boston and NH and, when not writing, enjoys hiking and Boston area sports.
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