Sarla Aviation Begins Ground Testing of SYL-X1 Air Taxi

Sarla Aviation has started ground testing of its half-scale electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) demonstrator, SYL-X1, at its Bengaluru facility. With a 7.5-metre wingspan, the SYL-X1 is the largest private eVTOL demonstrator under development in India.

Developed in about nine months with limited capital compared to international programmes, the demonstrator validates structural design, propulsion integration, and safety systems at aircraft scale. Built with certification intent, it serves as a stepping stone to the company’s planned 15-metre full-scale air taxi.

Rakesh Gaonkar, Co-Founder & CTO, Sarla Aviation, said the achievement demonstrates the capability of experienced Indian teams applying global standards. He emphasised building durable, certifiable platforms fully designed and owned in India, rather than rushing announcements.

The programme required establishing a certification-aligned test ecosystem, navigating India’s emerging aerospace supply chain, and expanding the team to nearly 70 engineers. During the same period, Sarla delivered a full-scale static aircraft for display at Bharat Mobility and secured USD 13 million in funding.

The SYL-X1 focuses on helicopter-like endurance while reducing costs and complexity through electric propulsion. Sarla Aviation aims to create scalable urban air mobility solutions for congested cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi, and Pune.

Founded in 2023 by former Lilium executives Rakesh Gaonkar and Adrian Schmidt, Sarla draws expertise from leading eVTOL firms including Volocopter, Beta, and Joby. Named after India’s first woman pilot Sarla Thukral, the company targets faster, cleaner, and affordable intra- and inter-city travel, aligned with Viksit Bharat 2047 goals.

The six-seater flagship aircraft prioritises safety, simplicity, and accessibility, comparable to ride-hailing services.

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