FutureFlight
SkyDrive and JAXA Partner on eVTOL Noise Research
SkyDrive is embarking on a joint research project with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) to study ways to estimate, evaluate, and reduce the noise produced by eVTOL aircraft.
SkyDrive's eVTOL aircraft design is shown alongside a rotor in the JAXA wind tunnel
SkyDrive will use JAXA's wind tunnel facilities and noise analysis technologies to study ways to make eVTOL aircraft quieter. (Photo: SkyDrive)

SkyDrive is embarking on a joint research project with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) to study ways to estimate, evaluate, and reduce the noise produced by new eVTOL aircraft. 

The Tokyo-based start-up, which is developing a three-seat eVTOL air taxi, has been using JAXA’s largest wind tunnel since 2021 to evaluate the aerodynamics and performance of its designs—particularly the rotors. According to SkyDrive, it is the first eVTOL aircraft developer to conduct tests in JAXA’s wind tunnel facility, which has been used for the development of nearly every airplane, helicopter, and spacecraft produced in Japan. 

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