SkyDrive received the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Award at the Japan Startup Awards 2026. Its track record in air mobility development, anticipating a once-in-a-century mobility revolution, and its plans to launch services were recognized.
SkyDrive, a company engaged in the development, manufacture and sale of compact flying cars, announced that it had received the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Award at the Japan Startup Awards 2026. The award reflects recognition of the company's efforts to enable everyday travel by air and its contribution to addressing social challenges.
The company conducted Japan's first public manned flight test in 2020 and carried out demonstration flights at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan. It said the award recognized its economically efficient aircraft design and its record of demonstration flights in Japan and overseas. Fukuzawa Tomohiro (福澤知浩), Representative Director and CEO, attended the awards ceremony.
The air mobility vehicle being developed by the company, SKYDRIVE (SD-05 model), is targeting a service launch in 2028. The company aims to promote air travel as an everyday means of transportation by reducing weight, improving quietness and controlling aircraft costs through electrification.
Manufacturing will begin at a Suzuki Group factory, with a production capacity of up to 100 aircraft annually expected from 2024 onward. Flight testing confirmed stable flight at the practical operating speed of 100 km/h in June 2026, and more than 300 flights have been completed without an accident. Related government announcements have also been referenced, and attention is focused on the company's future business development.