SAI Flight Services, a South Carolina-based private jet charter operator, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SkyDrive, a Japanese electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) manufacturer, to pre-order ten SkyDrive SD-05 eVTOL aircraft and establish commercial air taxi routes in the state.
The company, which holds a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 135 certificate, will oversee operations and maintenance, with the airport providing infrastructure support for short- and medium-haul routes. The SkyDrive SD-05, a two-seat eVTOL, is currently undergoing certification with both the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) and the FAA. Initial routes will connect Greenville Downtown, SC to destinations such as Greenville/Spartanburg International and the city centre.
The operator's charter fleet comprises five aircraft, including three Bombardier Business Aircraft Challenger 604s, one Learjet 60, one King Air F90, and one King Air 250. SAI Flight Services specialises in private jet charters and aircraft management.
SkyDrive, established in 2018 and headquartered in Toyota, Japan, is backed by multiple corporate investors, including the Suzuki Motor Corporation, its production partner for the SkyDrive SD-05 eVTOL.
