Summary: Sarla Aviation, a Bengaluru-based aerospace startup, has raised $10 million in funding led by Accel, with participation from notable angel investors. Founded in 2024, the company aims to address urban congestion through electric air taxis. Its first prototype, Shunya, designed for six passengers and a pilot, will debut at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo. With plans to launch commercial operations by 2028, starting in Bengaluru, the company also prioritises social responsibility through a free air ambulance service. Backed by experienced leadership and partnerships, Sarla Aviation is poised to redefine urban mobility and contribute to India’s growing electric aviation sector.
Sarla Aviation Secures $10 Million to Advance Electric Air Taxi Innovation
Bengaluru, January 16, 2025 Sarla Aviation, an emerging aerospace startup named after Sarla Thukral, India’s first female pilot, has raised $10 million in a funding round led by venture capital firm Accel. Prominent angel investors, including Flipkart co-founder Binny Bansal, Zerodha’s Nikhil Kamath, and Swiggy’s Sriharsha Majety, also contributed to the funding.
Addressing Urban Mobility Challenges
Founded in 2024 by Adrian Schmidt, Rakesh Gaonkar, and Shivam Chauhan, Sarla Aviation aims to tackle urban congestion through innovative electric air taxis. The company’s mission focuses on creating eco-friendly transportation solutions to alleviate traffic issues in India’s expanding urban areas.
The fresh funds will enable the establishment of a research and development center in Bengaluru, facilitate team expansion beyond the current 30 members, and expedite the creation of advanced prototypes.
Introducing Shunya: The First Prototype
The startup plans to debut its prototype, Shunya (“zero” in Hindi), on January 17 at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo in New Delhi. Designed to carry six passengers and a pilot, Shunya boasts a payload capacity of 680 kilograms. Unlike conventional eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) models, which cater to smaller payloads and shorter distances, Sarla Aviation’s prototype prioritizes mid-range travel of up to 160 kilometers at competitive costs.
Expertise Driving Innovation
Adrian Schmidt, a German co-founder of Sarla Aviation, brings significant expertise from his time at Lilium, a Munich-based air taxi company, and his work with Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen. He relocated to Bengaluru in 2023, inspired by the vast potential of India’s urban mobility market.
Strategic Roadmap and Social Impact
Commercial operations are targeted to begin by 2028, starting with airport transfer services in Bengaluru before expanding to cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Pune. Additionally, Sarla Aviation plans to launch a free air ambulance service, showcasing its commitment to social responsibility and public welfare.
A Burgeoning Industry
India’s urban air mobility market is rapidly evolving, with competitors like The ePlane Company and Archer Aviation making significant strides. In 2024, The ePlane Company secured $14 million to develop eVTOLs for intra-city transportation and cargo. Sarla Aviation’s initiatives align with this trend, positioning the startup as a key player in the sector.
Pratik Agarwal, Principal at Accel, noted, “Sarla Aviation’s vision of affordable flying taxis addresses critical urban challenges such as traffic congestion, pollution, and the need for rapid medical response.”
Overcoming Challenges
While the industry holds immense promise, challenges such as regulatory approvals, infrastructure development, and public trust must be addressed. Sarla Aviation’s early partnership with Bengaluru International Airport underscores its proactive approach to operational readiness.
Conclusion
Backed by strong funding, experienced leadership, and a clear vision, Sarla Aviation is poised to transform urban mobility in India. With sustainability and innovation at its core, the company is shaping a future where electric air taxis redefine transportation.
Edited By : Aarti Kumari Bhagat
