Japanese eVTOL developer SkyDrive Inc. has received the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Award at the government-sponsored Japan Startup Awards 2026.
Hosted by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the awards program recognizes entrepreneurs and startups that have created innovative businesses with significant societal impact. The initiative aims to foster an entrepreneurial mindset across society, highlighting the importance of tackling new challenges while honoring high-impact companies that serve as role models for the next generation.
SkyDrive was recognized for its technological achievements in developing compact, highly economical electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft designed for daily transportation. Amid intensifying global competition in Advanced Air Mobility, the company has steadily advanced its aircraft development, including conducting Japan’s first public crewed flight test in 2020 and completing demonstration flights at Expo 2025 Osaka. The award selection committee commended SkyDrive for driving the once-in-a-century mobility revolution forward to address urban traffic congestion and regional mobility challenges.
At the commendation ceremony held at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence, founder and CEO Tomohiro Fukuzawa met with government leaders. During the event, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi experienced operating the SKYDRIVE eVTOL aircraft over Tokyo via a flight simulator. Upon inquiring about the company’s business progress following Expo 2025 Osaka, the Prime Minister was shown video footage of high-speed flights and briefed on global pre-order figures.
“It is truly remarkable how far you have come,” offered Prime Minister Takaichi in encouragement.
“We are deeply honored to receive the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Award,” said Fukuzawa. “Since our founding, we have been dedicated to making daily air mobility a reality through safe, compact and cost-effective eVTOL aircraft. This recognition reflects the collective efforts of our team, partners and supporters. We will continue working closely with civil aviation authorities and industry partners to prepare for our commercial launch in 2028.”
