Japan's Air Taxi Future Takes Flight with Vertical and Marubeni

SINGAPORE & LONDON – February 03, 2026

The vision of electric air taxis whisking passengers over Japan's congested cities and scenic landscapes is moving closer to reality. UK-based Vertical Aerospace and Japanese conglomerate Marubeni Corporation have announced a major acceleration of their plans to establish a commercial Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) network, setting a target for piloted demonstration flights in the Osaka Bay area by 2026.

This move signals a critical step forward in one of the world's most anticipated markets for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The partnership aims to deploy Vertical's piloted, four-passenger Valo aircraft, promising a future of quieter, faster, and zero-emission urban and regional travel. The collaboration leverages Vertical's pioneering aerospace technology with Marubeni's extensive experience in aviation, infrastructure, and deep-rooted presence in the Japanese market, creating a formidable force in the burgeoning AAM sector.

A Strategic Push into a Promising Market

Japan has emerged as a global frontrunner for AAM adoption, thanks to a combination of strong government support, advanced infrastructure, and a clear regulatory roadmap. The partnership between Vertical and Marubeni is designed to capitalize on this environment, building a comprehensive ecosystem from the ground up.

"Japan combines strong regulatory leadership, advanced infrastructure and trusted industrial partners, making it one of the most promising markets globally for Advanced Air Mobility," said Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace. He emphasized the company's methodical approach, stating, "Our partnership with Marubeni and engagement with JCAB demonstrate our careful, step-by-step approach to developing real-world Valo operations, grounded in safety, certification and public acceptance."

Marubeni's commitment is more than just strategic alignment. The trading giant has backed its vision with capital, making pre-delivery slot reservation payments for the first 25 of its 200 pre-ordered Valo aircraft. This financial stake underscores a growing confidence in Vertical's program and the commercial viability of air taxis in Japan.

For Marubeni, this venture is a key part of its broader strategy to lead the development of Japan's future mobility ecosystem. "We are pleased to take this next step with Vertical Aerospace as we progress toward demonstration flying in Japan," stated Toru Okazaki, Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Marubeni's Aerospace & Mobility Division. "By advancing route development in the Kansai region, we see significant opportunities to build the operating infrastructure and ecosystem required to accelerate AAM adoption."

The Race for Japan's Skies

While the Vertical-Marubeni partnership marks a significant milestone, they are not operating in a vacuum. Japan has become a focal point for the world's leading eVTOL developers, creating a competitive and rapidly evolving landscape. The momentum generated by the 2025 Osaka World Expo, which showcased eVTOL technology to millions of visitors, has intensified this race.

American competitor Joby Aviation, partnered with major airline ANA Holdings, has already conducted numerous test flights in the country and is targeting the launch of an air taxi service as early as 2026, subject to regulatory approval. Similarly, Archer Aviation, another US-based player, is working with a consortium led by Japan Airlines (JAL) to plan demonstration flights over Tokyo Bay.

Adding to the competitive pressure is the homegrown contender, SkyDrive. The Japanese startup is developing its three-seat SD-05 eVTOL and is working closely with the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) for type certification, aiming for a 2028 service entry. SkyDrive's collaboration with Osaka Metro to integrate vertiports with the existing public transport network highlights a key strategy for achieving mass adoption.

This intense competition is ultimately a boon for Japan, accelerating innovation, investment, and the development of a comprehensive regulatory framework. The country's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) has already outlined a four-phase vision for AAM, signaling a clear governmental commitment to making flying cars a part of everyday life.

Navigating the Path to Certification and Operation

The journey from prototype to commercial service is paved with rigorous technical and regulatory challenges. Vertical's Valo aircraft, unveiled in late 2025, is the company's designated certification model. Engineered to meet the same stringent safety standards as commercial airliners, it is designed to carry four passengers up to 160 km at speeds reaching 240 km/h.

The aircraft incorporates lessons learned from extensive testing of its VX4 prototype and feedback from airline partners. Notably, it features a large cargo hold capable of accommodating both cabin and checked bags, a crucial feature for the planned airport shuttle services. A hybrid-electric variant is also in development to provide greater range and mission flexibility.

The certification pathway is a multi-jurisdictional marathon. Vertical is targeting type certification from the UK's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in 2028. Following that, it will seek validation from Japan's JCAB, which accepted Vertical's application into its program in 2023. This concurrent engagement with multiple global regulators is a complex but necessary strategy to ensure broad market access.

However, bringing a new aircraft to market is an enormously capital-intensive endeavor. While Vertical has secured funding to support its operations through mid-2026, the company has acknowledged it will need to raise significant additional capital—estimated to be around $700 million—to see the Valo through to full certification.

From Expo Dreams to Everyday Reality

The ultimate success of AAM will depend on its practical application and public acceptance. The partnership is initially focused on the Kansai region, evaluating a flagship corridor that could reduce travel times by nearly 80% compared to ground transportation.

Several key use cases are being progressed. Premium tourism routes could connect urban centers like Osaka with scenic destinations such as Awaji Island and Shodoshima. Airport shuttles would provide fast first- and last-mile links to major hubs, a compelling proposition in traffic-choked metropolitan areas. Furthermore, the partners are exploring the use of Valo for essential services, including time-critical medical transport and emergency response.

The planned 2026 demonstration flights will be the first tangible test of these concepts in Japan, serving as a powerful tool for building public confidence and gathering crucial operational data. As the technology matures and the regulatory frameworks solidify, the focus will shift to building out the necessary infrastructure, including the vertiports that will serve as the sky-hubs of the future. The coming years will be decisive in determining whether the dream of electric air taxis can successfully navigate the journey from the drawing board to the skies above Japan.