India Aims to Launch Electric Air Taxis by 2028

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu announced that India aims to launch commercial electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) air taxis by 2028. Speaking at the inauguration of Sarla Aviation's new headquarters in Bengaluru, Naidu stated that the government intends to alleviate congestion in metropolitan hubs including Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi. The initiative seeks to reduce airport-to-city travel times from two hours to approximately 30 minutes.

As part of this push, the government granted Sarla Aviation the country's third Design Organisation Approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. This approval allows the Bengaluru-based startup to advance the development of a powered-lift aircraft designed to carry six passengers and one pilot. The aircraft utilizes seven electric motors for propulsion and lift. Sarla Aviation has already established agreements for air ambulance services with Manipal Hospitals and last-mile connectivity with Bengaluru airport.

To ensure the service remains affordable and commercially viable, the government is prioritizing the localization of manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. This strategy aims to position India as an exporter of advanced air mobility technology. While the government expects testing to accelerate in 2027, the 2028 operational goal remains dependent on safety certifications, regulatory approvals, and the establishment of airspace management systems.