IndiGo Acquires Stake in Sarla Aviation for INR 10 Cr
The investment was made through IndiGo Ventures in January and reflects the airline’s growing interest in urban air mobility technologies.
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IndiGo has acquired an equity stake worth INR 10 crore in Sarla Aviation, marking its entry into the electric air taxi segment.
The investment was made through IndiGo Ventures in January and reflects the airline’s growing interest in urban air mobility technologies.
Founded in 2023, Sarla Aviation is working on electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft designed for use as flying taxis. Its flagship aircraft, named “Shunya”, is being developed for urban transport and is expected to be launched in Bengaluru by 2028.
The aircraft is designed to carry up to 680 kilograms and can seat six passengers, excluding the pilot. It is expected to operate from existing helipads located at hotels, hospitals, and technology parks, enabling short-distance urban travel.
Sarla Aviation had previously raised USD 10 million in January last year in a funding round led by Accel, with participation from Binny Bansal, Nikhil Kamath, and Sriharsha Majety.
IndiGo’s investment comes after its earlier non-binding partnership with Archer Aviation did not move forward due to timeline delays.
Globally, several eVTOL companies have received backing from major airlines. Joby Aviation is supported by Delta Air Lines and Toyota Motor Corporation, while Archer Aviation has secured a strategic investment from United Airlines.
IndiGo has acquired an equity stake worth INR 10 crore in Sarla Aviation, marking its entry into the electric air taxi segment.
The investment was made through IndiGo Ventures in January and reflects the airline’s growing interest in urban air mobility technologies.
Founded in 2023, Sarla Aviation is working on electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft designed for use as flying taxis. Its flagship aircraft, named “Shunya”, is being developed for urban transport and is expected to be launched in Bengaluru by 2028.
The aircraft is designed to carry up to 680 kilograms and can seat six passengers, excluding the pilot. It is expected to operate from existing helipads located at hotels, hospitals, and technology parks, enabling short-distance urban travel.
Sarla Aviation had previously raised USD 10 million in January last year in a funding round led by Accel, with participation from Binny Bansal, Nikhil Kamath, and Sriharsha Majety.
IndiGo’s investment comes after its earlier non-binding partnership with Archer Aviation did not move forward due to timeline delays.
Globally, several eVTOL companies have received backing from major airlines. Joby Aviation is supported by Delta Air Lines and Toyota Motor Corporation, while Archer Aviation has secured a strategic investment from United Airlines.
