India aims to see electric air taxis fly by 2028, testing to gather pace next year

India is targeting the commercial operation of electric air taxis by 2028, with significant testing expected to commence next year, according to Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu.

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By 2028, we want to see these machines fly in India. There is a huge requirement, not only in Bangalore, but Mumbai and Delhi.

Speaking at the inauguration of Sarla Aviation's new headquarters in Bengaluru, Naidu highlighted the potential of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to alleviate traffic congestion in major metropolitan areas like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi. "By 2028, we want to see these machines fly in India," Naidu stated.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) are collaborating with the industry to establish testing protocols, safety standards, and regulations. The DGCA has already granted Design Organisation Approval to Sarla Aviation, a crucial regulatory step for the company's eVTOL development.

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I expect that next year we'll completely be in the testing phase. By 2028, we plan to make this happen.

Sarla Aviation's aircraft is designed to carry six passengers and a pilot, utilizing seven electric motors for lift and propulsion. The company is exploring options to integrate a turbo-generator for mid-flight battery charging while maintaining an all-electric propulsion system. The startup, backed by prominent venture capital firms and angel investors, aims to develop this technology within India.

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It's powered by six electric motors that lift it up and one in the rear that pushes it forward. So we have a total of seven electric motors that we're using and it's piloted as of now with six passengers.