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Visitors Experience the Future of Urban Air Mobility with Life-Size Model and Boarding Opportunity
SkyDrive Inc., a leading Japanese eVTOL (electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing) aircraft manufacturer, has revealed a full-scale mockup of its SKYDRIVE SD-05 model to the public for the first time at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai. The display is part of the Advanced Air Mobility Station, located in the Expo’s Empowering Zone, and offers visitors a unique chance to see and board the model, marking a significant step in public engagement with next-generation air mobility.
A Closer Look at the SKYDRIVE SD-05
The full-scale mockup is built to the actual dimensions of the production model: approximately 11.5 meters long, 11.3 meters wide, and 3 meters high, including rotors. The SKYDRIVE SD-05 is designed to carry three people—one pilot and two passengers—making it lighter and quieter than traditional helicopters. Its compact size and electric power make it well-suited for urban environments, with the ability to take off and land from rooftops and other limited spaces.
Inside, the cabin focuses on passenger comfort. Two rear seats allow passengers to sit side by side, and large panoramic windows provide a wide, immersive view of the surroundings. The design aims to make air travel not only practical but also enjoyable and memorable for everyday users.
Boarding Experience and Public Demonstrations
The Advanced Air Mobility Station at Expo 2025 is more than just a static display. Visitors with reservations can board the full-scale mockup, experiencing firsthand what future air mobility could feel like. Those without reservations are still welcome to view the aircraft up close. This interactive approach helps bridge the gap between concept and reality, giving the public a tangible sense of the possibilities eVTOL technology offers.
In addition to the mockup, SkyDrive has conducted a remotely piloted demonstration flight of the SD-05 at the Expo’s custom-built vertiport. The prototype flew at an altitude of around five meters for about four minutes, showcasing the aircraft’s capabilities to media and visitors. More demonstration flights and public events are planned throughout the Expo, further highlighting the role of eVTOLs in future urban transportation.
