Sumitomo Corporation, Japan Airlines, and Soracle Chosen for Tokyo’s eVTOL Project Phase I
On November 5, 2025, Sumitomo Corporation, Japan Airlines Co., Ltd. (JAL), and Soracle Corporation were selected as implementation partners for the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s “eVTOL Implementation Project” Phase I. This initiative is part of a consortium of nine companies led by JAL.
Project Overview
The project marks a major step toward realizing commercial operations of eVTOL—electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft—in Tokyo’s urban areas by 2030. Through a coordinated effort between the public and private sectors, the consortium seeks to enhance collaboration and overcome challenges associated with urban air mobility.
Consortium Members
- Sumitomo Corporation (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President and CEO: Shingo Ueno)
- Japan Airlines Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo; President and Group CEO: Mitsuko Tottori)
- Soracle Corporation (Headquarters: Chuo-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Yukihiro Ota)
Phased Development Approach
The three-year project beginning in 2025 includes several key stages:
- Desktop research and planning
- Demonstration flight testing
- Promotion of pre-commercial implementation
“The Project represents a crucial step toward realizing eVTOL commercial flights in Tokyo’s urban areas by 2030.” — Tokyo Metropolitan Government
Through these efforts, stakeholders aim to accelerate the “Revolution in Urban Air Mobility” and lay the foundation for next-generation transportation in Japan’s capital.
Author’s Summary
This collaboration signals Tokyo’s strong commitment to advancing eVTOL technology through a structured, multi-phase plan led by both public and private sectors.