Volocopter has successfully concluded a multi-day flight test campaign spanning from December 7 to 13 with its crewed 2X aircraft in the Japanese cities of Osaka and Amagasaki. The comprehensive testing initiative, conducted over a week, marks a significant milestone in local flight testing, primarily aimed at familiarizing the crew, testing communications tools, and refining flight test procedures in anticipation of the 2025 World Exposition, Osaka Kansai EXPO.
The objectives of these flights were dual-fold: firstly, to assess aircraft operations under conditions mirroring those expected during the EXPO, and secondly, to enhance public awareness of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in Japan. Dignitaries, including the Osaka governor, Osaka City mayor, prefectorial representatives, city officials, partners, and media, were present for the final flight test day event, co-hosted by Sumitomo Corporation, Volocopter’s strategic partner and investor in Japan.
The success of flight operations at the 2025 EXPO hinges on thorough preparation and on-the-ground assessments. These flight tests were executed at the Osaka Heliport, situated in close proximity to the planned 2025 EXPO pavilion location in Osaka Bay. This strategic location provides valuable insights and data on how Volocopter can shape eVTOL operations during the exhibition. Collaborating with local authorities, including the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB), local air traffic controllers, emergency response teams, and infrastructure owners, positions Volocopter for a seamless transition from testing to the industry’s commercial future, including the anticipated launch of the VoloCity over the skies of Osaka in 2025.
Earlier in the week, the crewed Volocopter 2X engaged in an aircraft behavioral flight with the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), Japan's national research and development center.
Volocopter's dedication to Japan dates back to 2018, marking it as one of the pioneers committing to realizing UAM in the country. Since late 2022, Volocopter has received multiple grants in Japan for conducting classroom studies on eVTOLs for school children in Osaka, as well as route and communication feasibility studies in Tokyo.
