FutureFlight
Japanese Regulator Approves Type Certification Basis for SkyDrive's Personal eVTOL Vehicle
The approval followed discussion over type certification requirements conducted through Japan's Public-Private Council for Air Mobility Revolution.
SkyDrive's SD-05 is a two-seat, all-electric flying car.
SkyDrive aims to complete type certification of its SD-05 personal eVTOL vehicle in 2025. (Image: SkyDrive)

The Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) has approved the type certification basis for SkyDrive’s SD-05 two-seat personal eVTOL vehicle. The Japanese company confirmed the decision late last week, reporting that the type certification process will be conducted according to the agency’s Airworthiness Inspection Manual Part II (Revision 61), which generally applies to fixed-wing aircraft with a takeoff weight of up to 19,000 pounds.

The JCAB, which is part of Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (MLIT), accepted SkyDrive’s application for type certification in October 2021. The Toyota City-based start-up aims to have the all-electric model approved for first deliveries in 2025.

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