SkyDrive and Osaka Metro Chart a Bold Future with "Osaka Diamond Routes"

SkyDrive, a pioneering Japanese eVTOL aircraft manufacturer, and Osaka Metro, a major transit operator in Osaka, have unveiled plans for the "Osaka Diamond Routes," a futuristic eVTOL mobility network designed to connect key destinations within the city. Announced during the "Osaka Roundtable," this project aims to redefine urban transport in Osaka, starting with the Morinomiya area by 2028 and gradually expanding through 2030 and beyond.

The proposed eVTOL routes will link four strategically selected locations: Shin-Osaka/Umeda, Morinomiya, Tennoji/Abeno, and the Osaka Bay Area. These hubs were identified through extensive market research as critical nodes for Osaka’s future mobility network. By leveraging eVTOL technology, SkyDrive and Osaka Metro aim to provide efficient, convenient, and sustainable transport solutions that seamlessly integrate into the city’s existing infrastructure.

A Partnership Rooted in Innovation

SkyDrive, known for developing a lightweight, three-seater eVTOL aircraft, is positioning itself at the forefront of the urban air mobility (UAM) revolution. Meanwhile, Osaka Metro—which operates a rapid transit network serving approximately 2.4 million daily passengers—is advancing its "e METRO" Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) initiative. This effort integrates subways, buses, taxis, and future eVTOL services to create a more connected and convenient urban environment.

The collaboration between SkyDrive and Osaka Metro began with an agreement signed in August, following extensive feasibility studies and the establishment of an "eVTOL Promotion Office" under Osaka Metro’s president in October. Their combined efforts have culminated in today’s announcement of the Osaka Diamond Routes.

Elevating Travel and Tourism

The Osaka Diamond Routes are designed to enhance both practicality and passenger experience. The selected routes not only optimize connectivity but also showcase Osaka’s stunning cityscapes, offering breathtaking aerial views of iconic landmarks. Passengers will enjoy a unique blend of convenience, privacy, and unforgettable sightseeing opportunities, transforming routine urban travel into an extraordinary experience.

The Road Ahead

Bringing the Osaka Diamond Routes to life will require close collaboration with local and national government bodies, including Osaka Prefecture and Osaka City authorities. SkyDrive and Osaka Metro will also engage with industry stakeholders to finalize vertiport locations and flight paths, ensuring the network’s safety and reliability. Future phases of the project envision an expansion into Osaka’s suburbs and the greater Kansai region, aligning with the companies’ shared vision of unlocking the full potential of air mobility. By integrating eVTOL services into Osaka’s urban fabric, the initiative aims to bolster the city’s global reputation for innovation and tourism.