The partnership involves Blade India’s acquisition of 150 Jaunt Journey aircraft, with an option to order an additional 100 aircraft to meet the expected demand in the next decade.
FlyBlade India, a joint venture between Hunch Ventures and Blade Air Mobility, has announced a strategic partnership with Jaunt Air Mobility to introduce electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft operations in India and the subcontinent region by 2027. The partnership involves Blade India’s acquisition of 150 Jaunt Journey aircraft, with an option to order an additional 100 aircraft to meet the expected demand in the next decade.
India is the world’s third-largest aviation market and is currently experiencing a significant transformation, with an increasing need for seamless and faster connectivity to link passengers in urban areas. Blade India is a frontrunner in this initiative, having already established short-haul mobility services in various cities across the country.
On the other hand, Jaunt, a global aerospace company, has pioneered the all-electric Jaunt Journey, an aircraft that combines the capabilities of a helicopter and fixed-wing flight, emphasizing safety, low noise, and operational efficiencies. Jaunt is seeking a Transport Category certification for its aircraft, equivalent to that of commercial airliners.
Amit Dutta, Managing Director, Blade India, said, “With its vast expanse and increasing congestion, India is one of the biggest markets in the world for AAM solutions. With Blade’s first-mover advantage in nurturing the Urban Air Mobility ecosystem in India and Jaunt’s technical expertise, this partnership is well poised to pioneer the transition to electric and revolutionize the transportation system.”
The two companies plan to collaborate in specific areas that are crucial to support future short-haul mobility operations, including exploring the development of vital infrastructure capabilities in aircraft charging and energy distribution technologies. Jaunt aims to leverage Blade India’s existing short-haul operational and customer experience to support the development of the Jaunt Journey aircraft and its integration into the Indian airspace.
Simon Briceno, Chief Commercial Officer, Jaunt Air said, “We are thrilled to partner with an exceptional Blade India team to pursue the launch of a new form of urban air travel in India and the subcontinent region. Our collaboration with Blade India and our clear path towards aircraft certification means that the Indian public will soon be able to benefit from the development of a new safe, affordable, and accessible mode of transportation.”
This partnership between Blade India and Jaunt Air Mobility has the potential to significantly enhance India’s urban air mobility ecosystem and revolutionize the country’s transportation system, providing the public with an alternative mode of transportation that is safe, efficient, and affordable.
