RNS: Chennai-based startup, The ePlane Co, is preparing to launch India’s first electric air taxi by 2026. The company, incubated at IIT-Madras, plans to develop three prototypes within the next two years, bringing the dream of a “Made-in-India” air taxi to life.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has established new regulations for air taxis, covering aircraft standards, landing ports, and pilot training. Additionally, five testing sites are being set up in Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh, where air taxi testing will begin later this year.
Air taxis could be a potential solution to the traffic congestion issue in Indian cities, such as Bangalore, which loses an estimated $2.3 billion annually due to traffic jams. Air taxis are expected to reduce travel time to airports significantly, offering a quicker alternative to metro and road transport.
Currently, The ePlane Co faces competition from Bangalore-based Sarla Aviation, which recently raised $10 million in funding. Internationally, the UK’s Archer Aviation has signed a deal with IndiGo’s parent company for 300 air taxis.
The ePlane Co is also expanding internationally, with plans to enter markets in the UAE, Indonesia, and Thailand. Discussions are underway with aviation authorities in Malaysia and Singapore, while Indonesia’s DGCA is keen on adopting the company’s air taxi model after it receives approval in India. Additionally, the company has signed a $1 billion agreement with ICATT for the supply of 788 air ambulances.
So far, The ePlane Co has raised $20 million and is seeking additional funding of $30-50 million. Founder Satyanarayan Chakravarthy revealed that the company is open to raising up to $100 million in the next investment round. The first commercial air taxi service is expected to begin by the end of 2026 or early 2027.
