In Japan, Air Taxis Could Lift Off From Highway Rest Stops

Expressway vertiports could offer sightseeing tours, local connectivity, and emergency response capabilities.

Jack Daleo

Friday, April 24, 2026 at 01:30 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Zach Vasile

A visualization of SkyDrive’s SD-05 air taxi operating from an expressway rest stop vertiport. [Credit: SkyDrive]

Key Takeaways:

SkyDrive, a Japanese eVTOL manufacturer, plans to establish vertiports at expressway rest stops and parking areas in Japan, aiming to offer aerial sightseeing, commuter services, and emergency response.
This initiative leverages eVTOLs' vertical takeoff capability to expand air mobility beyond traditional airports, utilizing existing highway infrastructure to create regional value.
Globally, eVTOL developers are exploring a wide range of non-traditional vertiport locations, from parking garages and malls to resorts and floating platforms, to integrate air taxis into diverse urban and regional networks.

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One of Japan’s leading manufacturers of eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) air taxis is exploring operations out of expressway rest stops and parking areas.

With their ability to take off vertically like a helicopter, eVTOL models do not require a runway, opening up operations beyond traditional airports and heliports. SkyDrive, the developer of a two-passenger air taxi, is working with the West Nippon Expressway Company (Nexco West) to extend air transport to the side of the highway or freeway.