SkyDrive Signs Australia’s First eVTOL Agreement with Gold Coast Helitours

SkyDrive Signs Australia’s First eVTOL Agreement with Gold Coast Helitours

TOYOTA, Japan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug 17, 2026-

Australia’s Helitours to buy five SkyDrive eVTOLs for Gold Coast sightseeing operations

SkyDrive today announced the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Gold Coast Helitours, a helicopter operator based in the Gold Coast, Australia. “This milestone agreement represents SkyDrive’s first LOI with an Australian operator regarding the introduction of its aircraft,” said a SkyDrive press release. “The parties have reached a basic agreement on the terms for purchasing up to five “SKYDRIVE” eVTOL aircraft (Model SD-05)  which encompasses specific pricing and a delivery schedule (targeting two aircraft in 2028 and three in 2029). Furthermore, the proposed route for sightseeing services has been mutually agreed upon.” SkyDrive and Gold Coast Helitours plan to launch Australia’s first eVTOL sightseeing service in 2028, operating out of the existing heliport located at Marina Mirage, Main Beach. Initial flight plans include an approximate 10-minute scenic loop flying over the Broadwater, Southport, and Surfers Paradise. “Leading up to the targeted commercial launch in 2028, SkyDrive and Gold Coast Helitours will work closely to secure necessary type certification from regulatory authorities,” said the press statement.  “As a foundational step for operations, the partners will also drive the development of a dedicated vertiport and a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility at Southport Airfield. Looking ahead, the long-term vision is to utilize Southport Airfield as a central maintenance hub to build a broader eVTOL aircraft network. This network aims to seamlessly connect the Gold Coast city center, major commercial districts, and the Gold Coast Airport.” For more information https://skydrive.co.jp/en/news/72874/

SkyDrive Secures Australia’s First eVTOL Agreement with Gold Coast Helitours

SkyDrive Inc., a leading compact eVTOL aircraft manufacturer based in Japan, recently announced the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Gold Coast Helitours, a premier helicopter operator based in the Gold Coast, Australia. This milestone agreement represents SkyDrive’s first LOI with an Australian operator regarding the introduction of its aircraft. The parties have reached a basic agreement on the terms for purchasing up to five “SKYDRIVE…

Sightseeing flights may go electric, vertical in 2028

Sightseeing flights over the Gold Coast could enter the eVTOL age in 2028 under a tentative deal that has just been signed. Japan’s SkyDrive makes electric VTOL (Vertical Take-Off Landing) aircraft and signed a letter of intent to supply five aircraft to Gold Coast Helitours; two in 2028 and three in 2029. Gold Coast Helitours chief pilot and director Scott Menzies says the quiet flights will offer a new experience for passengers. “By adding inc…