Sarla Aviation: 10 Key Things You Must Know

Overview

Sarla Aviation is a pioneering startup in the aerospace industry, focused on developing electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, commonly referred to as flying taxis. Established in 2024, this Bengaluru-based company is named in honor of Sarla Thukral, India’s first female pilot, and aims to revolutionize urban mobility in India by providing sustainable, efficient, and affordable air transport solutions. With recent significant investments and technological advancements, Sarla Aviation is on the path to drastically altering the landscape of public transportation.

1. Beginnings and Founders

Founded by Adrian Schmidt, Rakesh Gaonkar, and Shivam Chauhan, Sarla Aviation was inspired by a vision to innovate India's transportation sector. The founders, with backgrounds in companies like Lilium and Joby Aviation, bring unique expertise in eVTOL technology. This diverse experience aids Sarla Aviation's mission to overcome urban congestion with futuristic air transport solutions.

2. Naming and Inspiration

Sarla Aviation derives its name from Sarla Thukral, a trailblazer who became India's first female pilot in 1936. Her pioneering spirit continues to inspire the company to push boundaries in aerospace innovation. This legacy imbues the brand with a sense of national pride and a commitment to advancing India's technological landscape.

3. Technological Innovation: Shunya

The flagship product of Sarla Aviation is "Shunya," an advanced flying taxi model. Shunya is designed as a hybrid-lift-and-cruise eVTOL capable of carrying six passengers and a pilot, with a payload capacity of 680 kg. It features a combination of electric and vertical flight capabilities, allowing for efficient urban commuting.

4. Funding and Investment

Recently, Sarla Aviation secured $10 million in a Series A1 funding round led by Accel. Prominent angel investors, including figures from Flipkart, Zerodha, and Swiggy, contributed to this endeavor. The infusion of capital aims to bolster Sarla’s R&D capabilities, expand its workforce, and actualize its flying taxi ambitions.

5. Research and Development Hub

The company plans to establish a cutting-edge research and development center in Bengaluru, which will focus on refining its fleet of electric air taxis. This initiative underscores Sarla Aviation's commitment to advancing eVTOL technology and creating a robust infrastructure for its deployment.

6. Commercial Launch Plans

Sarla Aviation has set an ambitious target to launch its first commercial air taxi service by 2028. The initial focus will be on airport transfers in Bengaluru, with future expansions planned for other major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Pune. The service is envisioned to complement existing urban transportation systems and alleviate traffic congestion.

7. Strategic Partnerships

In preparation for its operational phase, Sarla Aviation has partnered with the Bengaluru International Airport for an initial pilot project. Such partnerships are crucial for integrating air taxis into the existing urban infrastructure and ensuring regulatory compliance.

8. Sustainable Mobility Vision

Sustainability is at the core of Sarla Aviation's vision. The company’s eVTOLs aim to reduce urban pollution by offering a clean, electric-powered alternative to traditional transport methods. This aligns with broader environmental goals and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

9. Air Ambulance Service

In a unique societal benefit, Sarla Aviation plans to offer a free air ambulance service as part of its initial phase. This initiative is intended to enhance emergency medical response times and underscores the company’s commitment to public welfare and safety.

10. Market Position and Competition

Sarla Aviation positions itself as a competitive player among global eVTOL developers, aiming to offer cost-effective air taxi services. By focusing on affordability and accessibility, it seeks to rival well-funded competitors such as Archer Aviation and ePlane, which are also vying for a share of the burgeoning air mobility market in India.

Conclusion

Sarla Aviation epitomizes innovation and determination in the rapidly evolving field of urban air mobility. From its homage to a pioneering female aviator to its cutting-edge technology and social initiatives, the company is poised to transform how urban landscapes are navigated. As it continues to develop and deploy its fleet, Sarla Aviation not only promises to alleviate urban congestion but also sets a precedent for integrating sustainable practices with technological advancement.