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 prioritizes 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.
Bengaluru, January 16, 2025 Sarla Aviation, an aerospace startup honouring Sarla Thukral, India’s pioneering female aviator, has secured $10 million in a funding round spearheaded by Accel. The round saw additional backing from angel investors like Binny Bansal (Flipkart), Nikhil Kamath (Zerodha), and Sriharsha Majety (Swiggy).
Reimagining Urban Transportation
Founded in 2024 by Adrian Schmidt, Rakesh Gaonkar, and Shivam Chauhan, Sarla Aviation is on a mission to revolutionise urban mobility in India. Its electric air taxis aim to mitigate traffic woes and promote cleaner, more efficient travel in congested cities.
This latest funding will support the establishment of a Bengaluru-based R&D hub, expand the workforce beyond 30 employees, and drive the production of cutting-edge prototypes.
Prototype Shunya: A New Frontier
On January 17, the company will unveil Shunya (“zero” in Hindi) at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo in New Delhi. The aircraft can transport six passengers and a pilot, with a payload capacity of 680 kilograms. Distinguishing itself from smaller eVTOL models, Shunya targets mid-range journeys up to 160 kilometers, balancing affordability with utility.
Experienced Founders Leading the Charge
German co-founder Adrian Schmidt brings deep industry expertise, having previously worked with Lilium and automotive giants like Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen. His move to Bengaluru in 2023 highlights his confidence in India’s potential as a hub for urban air mobility innovation.
Ambitious Plans with a Humanitarian Edge
The startup aims to launch commercial services by 2028, initially focusing on airport transfers in Bengaluru before extending operations to cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Pune. Additionally, Sarla Aviation’s vision includes a free air ambulance service, reflecting its commitment to social good.
Competitive Industry Landscape
India’s urban air mobility sector is heating up, with players like The ePlane Company and Archer Aviation also making headway. Last year, The ePlane Company raised $14 million for its eVTOL projects. Sarla Aviation’s advancements align with this growing trend, solidifying its place in a competitive market.
Accel’s Pratik Agarwal remarked, “Sarla Aviation’s vision of affordable flying taxis addresses critical urban challenges such as traffic congestion, pollution, and the need for rapid medical response.”
Navigating Challenges
The road ahead includes overcoming regulatory hurdles, building infrastructure, and earning public trust. Sarla Aviation’s collaboration with Bengaluru International Airport showcases its forward-thinking strategy to prepare for large-scale operations.
Conclusion
Sarla Aviation is positioned to become a trailblazer in India’s electric aviation sector. With solid financial backing, innovative technology, and a socially conscious agenda, the company is set to redefine the future of urban transportation.
Edited by : Aarti Kumari Bhagat
