New collaboration combines SkyDrive’s eVTOL expertise with FEAM Aero’s extensive line maintenance network, paving the way for regional air mobility integration across U.S. aviation systems.
by DRONELIFE Staff Writer Ian J. McNabb
Japanese eVTOL developer Skydrive recently announced a new strategic partnership with F&E Aircraft Maintenance (Miami), LLC to provide a framework for future eVTOL infrastructure and integration in the US, combining Skydrive’s experience as a manufacturer with F&E’s proven line maintenance program to ensure scalability in the US and beyond.
With 52 global line stations in the US, UK, and Europe, FEAM Aero has supports more than 130,000 flights annually, servicing 70 operators, including major airlines, cargo carriers, regional airlines and private operators. Focusing on regional routes, the partnership will bring this maintenance capability to Skydrive’s fleet, which they are actively building out via their American subsidiary (founded in 2023), allowing them to integrate eVTOLs into current aviation infrastructure.
“The partnership with FEAM Aero marks a pivotal step in establishing maintenance and aircraft support infrastructure for our eVTOL, the Skydrive 2, and constitutes a significant advancement towards eVTOLs in the United States market,” said Tomohiro Fukuzawa, CEO of SkyDrive.“ We are confident that this collaboration will enable us to build commercial use cases, not only in the southeastern US but also nationally and seamlessly integrate into existing transportation systems at regional airports across the United States.”
“This partnership marks another significant milestone for FEAM Aero as we continue expanding our role in the rapidly evolving Advanced Air Mobility industry—a field we believe will be revolutionized by eVTOL technology,” said Cam Murphy, President of FEAM Aero. “Our collaboration with SkyDrive reflects FEAM’s commitment to innovation and our leadership in aviation maintenance. By blending our trusted expertise in maintenance with SkyDrive’s pioneering approach to regional air transport, we are establishing a best-in-class support ecosystem that positions FEAM at the forefront of the next era in aviation.”
Skydrive began production of their eVTOL in collaboration with Suzuki earlier this year, and applied for US type certification in August, with 2026 as a goal date for full rollout of their product line. More information on Skydrive is available here. More information on F&E Aircraft Maintenance is available here.
Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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