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The Future of Advanced Air Mobility in Osaka: What’s Coming After Expo 2025?

Will Osaka Expo 2025 showcase a significant presence from air taxi manufacturers? Companies like Joby Aviation, SkyDrive, Archer and Volocopter have been linked to plans for demonstrating their eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft, but the latest major updates on this came in 2023. The most recent development, announced in mid-December 2024, was Japanese eVTOL manufacturer SkyDrive and Osaka Metro unveiling plans for eVTOL routes to four destinations in Japan.


Will we see a big presence from the AAM market at the Expo? While it remains to be seen, such exposure could contribute to public acceptance of Advanced Air Mobility in Japan.


Since completing its first crewed flight test in Japan in 2019, SkyDrive has plans to launch air taxi services during the 2025 World Expo in Osaka, Japan. SkyDrive Image
Since completing its first crewed flight test in Japan in 2019, SkyDrive has plans to launch air taxi services during the 2025 World Expo in Osaka, Japan. SkyDrive Image

🚁 AAM’s Presence at Osaka Expo 2025

While Osaka Expo 2025 will not be a large-scale deployment of air taxis, it will provide an early showcase for some AAM players. A few key partnerships announced so far include:

  • Joby Aviation & ANA Holdings (since 2023) – Exploring the integration of Joby's eVTOLs into ANA’s network.

  • SkyDrive & Suzuki – Developing two-seater eVTOLs with a focus on Japan’s market.

  • Volocopter & Japan Airlines – Previously announced plans for multi-copter air taxi routes in Osaka.

  • EHang & Japanese partners – Testing autonomous eVTOL operations in select areas.

  • Archer & Soracle – Announced Agreement Including Intended Purchase Of Up To $500M of Electric Aircraft From Archer


🌆 Post-Expo 2025: What’s Next for Osaka Bay?

Once the Expo ends, Osaka Bay will continue to develop, with large-scale projects that could impact AAM integration in the long run. Key developments include:

🎰 1. Integrated Resort (IR) on Yumeshima Island

  • Developed by MGM Resorts and Orix Corporation

  • Features: Luxury hotels, a casino, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities, high-end shopping, and cultural attractions

  • Planned opening: Late 2030

  • Potential for eVTOL landing pads to connect visitors from Kansai International Airport

🏎️ 2. Yumeshima Phase 2 Development

  • Former Expo 2025 site (50 hectares)

  • Plans for a major entertainment hub, possibly featuring a circuit track

  • Potential integration of vertiports and AAM services

💎 3. Premium Jewelry Dome Osaka

  • A futuristic museum and entertainment space featuring high-tech exhibits

  • Blending luxury, innovation, and cultural storytelling

  • A possible hub for VIP eVTOL transport

This section is based on reports from Yuji Inoue, Project Manager for Osaka Expo 2025.

🚀 The Road Ahead for AAM in Osaka

The true expansion of air mobility in Japan will depend on developments beyond Expo 2025. Some key challenges include:

✅ Infrastructure – Will vertiports and charging networks be built across Osaka?✅ Public Perception – Will locals and tourists see eVTOLs as a viable transport option?✅ Regulatory Framework – How will Japan’s Civil Aviation Bureau support commercial eVTOL operations?

Osaka Expo 2025 is not the defining moment for AAM in Japan—it is merely a step in the process. The real test will come after the Expo, when long-term investment and policy decisions shape the future of Advanced Air Mobility. 🚁



 

 
 
 

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