Bengaluru’s Sarala Aviation to launch ‘Shunya,’ India’s first Air Taxi by 2028

Bengaluru-based Sarala Aviation has revealed ‘Shunya,’ India’s first air taxi, slated for launch in 2028. The announcement, made at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo on January 18, marks a groundbreaking moment for urban mobility and aviation in the country.

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Designed for short-distance travel, ‘Shunya’ can cover 20 to 30 kilometers at speeds of up to 250 km/h. The electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle can accommodate six passengers and carry a payload of up to 680 kilograms, making it the highest payload eVTOL in its class. Sarala Aviation aims to first roll out the service in Bengaluru before expanding to cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Pune.

In addition to passenger services, the company plans to offer free air ambulance facilities, addressing critical medical needs in congested urban areas.

Founded in October 2023 by Schmidt, Rakesh Gaonkar, and Shivam Chauhan, Sarala Aviation has quickly gained traction in the aviation sector. Backed by $10 million in Series A funding, with support from investors such as Accel and industry veterans Binny Bansal and Nikhil Kamath, the company is set to redefine urban transport and emergency services in India.

‘Shunya’ promises a future of fast, eco-friendly, and efficient urban travel, setting a new benchmark in mobility innovation.