Japan Airlines, Sumitomo Corporation to develop air mobility industry

Japan Airlines (JAL) and Sumitomo Corporation today entered into a cooperation agreement with Bell-Textron Inc. to promote the development of the Air Mobility Industry, including the infrastructure for next generation air transportation methods.

As urban areas become highly concentrated, eVTOL technology has attracted global attention in their efforts to develop the highly anticipated concept of a flying car, as Urban Air Mobility can transport people and goods without the need of a runway and has the potential to operate an eco-friendly service. With this agreement, jointly and collectively, JAL, Sumitomo and Bell will explore business opportunities for air mobility services, deploying Bell’s eVTOL technology in Japan and Asia.

JAL aims to develop a next-generation air mobility operation platform service, such as through flying cars, utilizing knowledge accumulated via safe aircraft operation experience. In addition, through air mobility services, JAL aims to deliver medical care in remote areas through eVTOL technology to achieve key sustainable development goals.

Sumitomo Corporation will deeply contribute to new technological inventions, industrial development, and construction of a next-generation mobility society through a global network and diversified business activities based on relationships of trust with customers and partners in various industrial fields.

Bell was founded in 1935 and for more than 80 years, it has been a leader in the industry producing vertical lift aircraft. Bell was the first to certify a commercial helicopter and has a name brand that is widely recognized around the world.  Bell remains at the forefront of this air mobility pursuit with a clear mission of finding solutions to the infrastructure challenges of tomorrow’s transportation networks.

About JAL Group

JAL was founded and developed in Japan. We will continue to bridge Japan and the world as the wings of Japan with gratitude and determination in our hearts.