Sarla Aviation set to launch air taxi services in India

New Delhi: Sarla Aviation, an aerospace startup, has unveiled India’s first flying taxi prototype, *Shunya*, earlier this year, and is now preparing to begin commercial operations soon.

In an exclusive interview with IANS, Adrian Schmidt, the co-founder and CEO of Sarla Aviation, shared that launching air taxis in India is a core part of the country’s *Viksit Bharat* vision. 

“India requires a more efficient transportation system, and air taxis are a key part of that solution. In the coming years, we believe they will become an essential element of public transport,” Schmidt explained.

He further emphasized that air taxis could provide a solution to the nation’s traffic woes. These taxis would be ideal for commuting to locations such as schools, shopping centers, hospitals, and airports, offering a more convenient, cost-effective, and environmentally-friendly alternative to conventional ground transportation.

Sarla Aviation has successfully raised $12 million in funding from a combination of venture capitalists and angel investors. The company plans to secure additional investments as it looks to expand its reach and scale its operations.

Schmidt expressed great appreciation for the role Indian investors have played in the company’s success, noting, “We are incredibly proud to have the support of Indian investors, many of whom are leaders behind some of the country’s most successful businesses.”

The company is focused on developing one of India’s most advanced electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, a project that reflects India’s growing ambition in sustainable urban air mobility. This development underscores the importance of collaboration and innovation in advancing the future of transportation.

Sarla Aviation is working toward conducting test flights and introducing further prototypes, with plans for a commercial launch in 2028, aiming to provide faster, cleaner, and more efficient mobility solutions.