SkyDrive has agreed terms with Australia-based helicopter operator Gold Coast Helitours for the supply of up to five electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft for scenic flights on the Gold Coast.
Under the letter of intent, the two companies have settled pricing and a delivery schedule for the SD-05 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, with two due in 2028 and three in 2029. According to SkyDrive, it is the manufacturer’s first aircraft introduction agreement with an Australian operator.
Services are planned to launch in 2028 from the existing heliport at Marina Mirage, Main Beach. The proposed route, agreed by both parties, is an approximately 10-minute scenic loop over the Broadwater, Southport and Surfers Paradise.
Ahead of the targeted commercial launch, the partners will work to secure type certification from regulatory authorities. They also plan to develop a dedicated vertiport and a maintenance, repair and overhaul facility at Southport Airfield.
Southport Airfield is planned to act as a central maintenance hub for a wider eVTOL network, which is intended to link the Gold Coast city center, major commercial districts and Gold Coast Airport.
Scott Menzies, chief pilot and director, Gold Coast Helitours, said, “For many years, we have provided our guests with breathtaking views of the Gold Coast from the sky. By adding incredibly quiet and environmentally friendly eVTOL aircraft to our fleet, we can offer an unprecedented new era of air travel. This beautiful coastline is the perfect stage for such a launch.”
Gold Coast Helitours flies a fleet that includes the Airbus H125 from its Marina Mirage heliport, covering sightseeing, charter, corporate transport, aerial filming, fire and rescue and specialized cargo work.
