Skyports Infrastructure has partnered with Japan’s Oita Prefectural Government to lay the foundations for future Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) services, supporting Oita’s target of launching commercial operations in 2028.
Having been formalised by a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on Wednesday, the agreement appoints Skyports as a consultant for the development and implementation of AAM in Oita.
Juichiro Sato, Governor of Oita Prefecture, said: “Oita Prefecture is exploring the potential of Advanced Air Mobility and how it could improve connectivity for residents and visitors across the region. Skyports’ global expertise in vertiport development, network planning and its strong industry network will provide valuable support as we assess future routes, infrastructure and commercial opportunities. We look forward to working closely with Skyports and other industry partners to lay the foundations for future AAM services in Oita.”
Under the agreement, Skyports will:
- Assess the potential societal and commercial benefits of AAM across Oita Prefecture.
- Identify and assess potential AAM routes and vertiport locations, working closely with relevant local authorities to determine their feasibility.
- Advise on and collaborate with eVTOL aircraft manufacturers to support preparations for future commercial services.
Oita presents a particularly compelling opportunity for AAM. The prefecture has a major tourism economy, but its mountainous terrain, extensive coastline and dispersed destinations can make journeys between key locations by road and rail a protracted affair.
A future AAM network could transform connectivity, potentially turning hour-long journeys on the ground into ~15 minute flights. Connecting key destinations such as Oita Airport, Oita City, Beppu and Yufuin, AAM could provide faster, more direct links for residents and visitors alike.
Addison Ferrell, Director of Infrastructure at Skyports Infrastructure, said: “Japan is one of the world’s most exciting emerging markets for AAM, and Oita presents a particularly compelling opportunity to demonstrate its real-world value. The prefecture’s geography, strong tourism economy and dispersed destinations make faster, more direct connections a natural fit for AAM. Through this partnership, we’ll bring our global experience in vertiport development and network planning to help Oita Prefectural Government identify where AAM can deliver the greatest benefit, and lay the practical foundations for future commercial services.”
Currently being targeted for a 2028 start date, the initial commercial service is projected to start with sightseeing tours of Beppu Bay and routes between Beppu and Yufuin.
From 2030, the service area will be expanded to include routes connecting Yufuin, Kuju, Kusu, and Hita, as well as routes between Oita City and Beppu/Yufuin, and between Oita Airport and Beppu/Oita City.
Michael Bryce, British Consul General in Osaka, said: “It is fantastic to see a British company bringing its world-leading expertise in AAM to Oita Prefecture. The UK and Japan share a strong commitment to innovation, and partnerships like this demonstrate the opportunities that exist when British expertise is combined with Japan’s ambition for future technologies. We are delighted to see Skyports strengthening its presence in Japan and working directly with Oita Prefectural Government to help turn the potential of AAM into a reality.”
Images: Skyports Infrastructure/Oita Prefectural Government
