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Skyports, the world’s leading dedicated vertiport company, and major Japanese trading company Kanematsu Corporation have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to expand their collaboration.

The aim of the partnership is to enable advanced air mobility (AAM) in Japan, with the companies working together to facilitate the deployment and operation of permanent and sustainable AAM transport solutions for both passengers and cargo.

Beginning their collaboration in 2020 with a focus on vertiport infrastructure and engaging in joint research as well as providing a platform for discussions with local public and private stakeholders, in April 2021 the agreement has been extended to include the drone delivery market.

Duncan Walker, chief executive officer at Skyports, said: “Establishing a presence in new markets, especially in an emerging industry, requires considerable expertise, as well as detailed understanding of local regulatory and political frameworks. Working with partners such as Kanematsu, we have a world-class, local presence which will do much to support our first steps to success in Japan. Kanematsu shares our aspiration of unlocking the sky for advanced air mobility, and this collaboration brings us one considerable step closer to launching successful commercial AAM operations in the region.”

Yoshiya Miyabe, Senior Managing Executive Officer, Chief Officer, Motor Vehicles & Aerospace Division, at Kanematsu, said: “We are excited to have a strong partnership with Skyports, the world leader in ground infrastructure solutions for AAM and drone delivery. We see a huge opportunity for AAM and drone delivery to benefit the future of transportation for both people and goods. It is our greatest pleasure to team up with Skyports. Together we will bring forth innovations in aviation and help to revolutionise air mobility and transport logistics to benefit people’s lives, communities and countries’ economies, in an environmentally sustainable and responsible manner.