Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Aerospace
  • /
  • Skyports partners with Kanematsu to launch commercial AAM operations in Japan

Aerospace

Skyports partners with Kanematsu to launch commercial AAM operations in Japan

London based Skyports and Japanese trading company Kanematsu Corporation have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to expand their collaboration and enable advanced air mobility (AAM) in Japan, by working together to facilitate the deployment and operation of permanent and sustainable passengers and cargo AAM transport solutions.

Image courtesy Skyports

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.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle

A picture containing sky, road, plane, outdoor Description automatically generated  A picture containing grass, outdoor, field, aircraft Description automatically generated

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.”

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle

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.

Based in London, United Kingdom, Skyports is a leading enabler of advanced air mobility (AAM) and has projects operating in multiple continents, including in Europe, North America, Asia, Australia and Africa.

Advertisement
Babcock LB Babcock LB
AAIB appoints Robert Balls as Chief Inspector of Air Accidents

Aerospace Security

AAIB appoints Robert Balls as Chief Inspector of Air Accidents

12 February 2026

The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has announced the appointment of Robert Balls as Chief Inspector of Air Accidents following a fair and open competition.

Air Canada confirms order for eight A350-1000s

Aerospace

Air Canada confirms order for eight A350-1000s

12 February 2026

Air Canada has disclosed a firm order (listed as undisclosed in November 2025) for eight Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, marking a pivotal upgrade to the airline’s long-haul fleet strategy with an additional commitment to Airbus widebody aircraft.

HMG Paints develops apprenticeship pathways

Aerospace Defence

HMG Paints develops apprenticeship pathways

11 February 2026

As National Apprenticeship Week reaches its 19th year, HMG Paints is continuing its commitment to workforce development within the sector through a showcase of the various development pathways found within apprenticeships in the business.

ACS UK wins two tier-one airline contracts

Aerospace

ACS UK wins two tier-one airline contracts

11 February 2026

Aircraft interiors specialist, ACS UK, has secured two significant new contracts with tier-one global airlines, covering the design and manufacture of bespoke, customised monuments for widebody aircraft.

Advertisement
ODU RT
International Group launches IADA

Aerospace Defence

International Group launches IADA

11 February 2026

The International Group announced yesterday that it has launched an aerospace and defence division - International Aerospace & Defence Alloys (IADA) - a dedicated business focused on high-integrity alloys for aerospace and defence programmes.

Bruderer UK and Brandauer invest to mark 60 years

Aerospace

Bruderer UK and Brandauer invest to mark 60 years

10 February 2026

Telford based Bruderer UK and Brandauer are marking 60 years of precision production with a £700,000 investment.

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle
Advertisement
ECS leaderboard banner