Japanese eVTOL manufacturer SkyDrive has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Gold Coast Helitours for the potential purchase of up to five SKYDRIVE aircraft, marking the company’s first aircraft introduction agreement with an Australian operator.
Announced on 18 August, the agreement covers the proposed acquisition of up to five SD-05 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, with the parties agreeing on pricing and a preliminary delivery schedule. Two aircraft are targeted for delivery in 2028, followed by another three in 2029.
The companies are targeting the launch of an eVTOL sightseeing service on Queensland’s Gold Coast in 2028, subject to regulatory approvals and aircraft certification.
Under the proposed service, flights would depart from the existing heliport at Marina Mirage in Main Beach and operate an approximately 10-minute scenic loop over the Broadwater, Southport and Surfers Paradise.
The agreement represents a step towards introducing advanced air mobility operations to one of Australia’s largest tourism destinations.
SkyDrive and Gold Coast Helitours said they will work towards obtaining the necessary type certification and regulatory approvals ahead of the planned commercial launch. The companies also intend to support development of dedicated eVTOL infrastructure, including a vertiport and maintenance, repair and overhaul facility at Southport Airfield.
In the longer term, Southport Airfield could serve as a central maintenance hub supporting a wider eVTOL network connecting the Gold Coast city centre, major commercial districts and Gold Coast Airport.
Gold Coast Helitours Chief Pilot and Director Scott Menzies said incorporating quieter and more environmentally friendly eVTOL aircraft into the operator’s fleet could create a new air travel experience for visitors to the region.
“For many years, we have provided our guests with breathtaking views of the Gold Coast from the sky,” Menzies said.
He added that the coastline provided an ideal location to introduce the new generation of aircraft.
SkyDrive founder and CEO Tomohiro Fukuzawa described Gold Coast Helitours as an experienced operator with a strong safety record and a forward-looking approach to next-generation mobility.
The partnership comes as the Gold Coast looks to develop its advanced air mobility ecosystem, leveraging an established helicopter tourism market while exploring lower-noise and electric aviation technologies.
Gold Coast Helitours currently operates from Marina Mirage and provides sightseeing, charter, corporate transport, aerial filming, fire and rescue, and specialised cargo services. Its fleet includes the Airbus H125, while its staff collectively bring more than 30 years of aviation industry experience.
SkyDrive’s SD-05 is an electrically powered vertical take-off and landing aircraft designed to operate without conventional runways. The company is positioning the aircraft for emerging advanced air mobility applications, including short-distance passenger transportation and tourism services.
If the Gold Coast plans proceed as proposed, the 2028 sightseeing operation would represent an early commercial application of eVTOL technology in Australia and could provide a foundation for a broader advanced air mobility network across the region.
