Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport has partnered with Sarla Aviation to launch electric flying taxi services. This initiative promises to redefine how residents and visitors travel within the city, reducing both travel time and congestion on the ground. Designed to operate with seven-seater electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, these taxis are set to become a faster, quieter, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional modes of city transport.
The agreement, signed last month by Sarla Aviation and Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), marks a significant milestone for Bengaluru’s commitment to sustainable transportation. The initiative focuses on reducing emissions and creating scalable infrastructure for urban air transport, with plans to start operations within two to three years. Sarla Aviation’s electric flying taxis are expected to meet global standards for reliable and efficient service, positioning Bengaluru as a leading city in green aviation solutions.
“Our mission is to reshape urban transportation by offering a clean, efficient, and sustainable alternative to current options,” said Schmidt, co-founder and CEO of Sarla Aviation, in a statement. “With electric flying taxis, we hope to set new benchmarks in operational efficiency and carbon footprint reduction.”
Known for its heavy traffic, Bengaluru consistently ranks among the world’s most congested cities. Reports from geolocation firm TomTom highlight Bengaluru as the second-worst city for traffic jams globally, where even short distances can take hours to cover during peak times. This collaboration aims to tackle these issues by offering an aerial route, reducing travel times significantly.
One of the primary routes under consideration will connect Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) with Electronics City, a journey that currently takes up to three hours by car due to traffic. The electric flying taxis, however, could cover the 52-kilometer distance in just 19 minutes, providing a swift and reliable option for travelers.
ALSO READ: Dubai Airport to Palm Jumeirah in 10 Minutes, UAE Air Taxis Take off in 2026
Electric flying taxis represent the latest advancement in urban air mobility. Unlike helicopters, eVTOLs operate on electric power, making them quieter, more cost-effective, and eco-friendly. Designed to take off and land vertically, these taxis are built to provide smooth rides without the environmental impact associated with traditional aviation. Each taxi has a capacity of seven passengers, making it suitable for both individual and group travel within city limits.
These futuristic vehicles are part of a growing trend in sustainable air transport, which focuses on lowering pollution, reducing noise, and offering faster commutes. With Bengaluru’s bustling tech hub and dense population, introducing electric flying taxis is expected to alleviate many of the city’s transportation challenges.
One might assume that flying taxis come with a high price tag, but Sarla Aviation aims to keep fares affordable. A one-way trip from the airport to Electronics City is projected to start at ₹1,700, offering a competitive alternative to traditional taxis and ride-sharing services. The affordability aspect is crucial, as Sarla Aviation aims to make these services accessible to a wide range of passengers, not just high-end clients.
The introduction of eVTOL services could transform how residents and visitors approach urban travel, with competitive pricing encouraging more people to use this efficient mode of transportation.
ALSO READ: Joby’s Hydrogen-Powered Air Taxi Sets Record with 523-Mile Trip, Emitting Only Water
Bengaluru will be the first city to benefit from Sarla Aviation’s flying taxi services, but the company has ambitious plans for expansion. Other cities facing similar traffic congestion, including Mumbai, Delhi, and Pune, are on Sarla Aviation’s radar for future routes. The company envisions a network of electric flying taxis across India, catering to cities where ground traffic remains a significant issue.
If successful, this initiative could serve as a model for other urban areas worldwide looking to adopt green, air-based transport solutions. While the concept is revolutionary, there are still regulatory hurdles to overcome before eVTOL services can begin. India’s civil aviation authorities will need to approve the use of electric flying taxis, ensuring they meet all safety and operational standards.