The Indian government is actively exploring potential sites to establish "regulatory sandbox" zones for the experimentation and evaluation of innovative aviation technologies aimed at enhancing urban air mobility solutions, according to sources from BusinessLine.
In the context of aviation, advanced air mobility vehicles encompass various electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. A "regulatory sandbox" refers to a controlled setting allowing new products and services to be trialed without the constraint of usual regulatory requirements.
Currently, authorities are investigating locations in Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat for these sandbox sites. One possible site has already been assessed in Gujarat, close to Mandvi, a coastal town in the Kachchh district. Additionally, areas near Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh are also being considered. The intention is to soon finalize at least one of these sites as a regulatory sandbox for eVTOL and drone testing.
This initiative aims to facilitate the swift testing and standardization of eVTOL aircraft, helping to advance their development within India. Many companies have introduced prototypes of these vehicles, while the civil aviation authority continues to work on establishing operational guidelines, licensing requirements, and safety standards for such aircraft.
According to insiders, establishing such facilities in India will enhance the progress and deployment of advanced air mobility solutions.
The aviation industry has generally welcomed the government’s plan. Smit Shah, President of the Drone Federation of India, remarked that creating a regulatory sandbox for eVTOLs represents a crucial advancement toward fostering innovation and ensuring the safe incorporation of advanced air mobility technologies into the air traffic system. He noted that real-world testing in a controlled environment will not only accelerate development but also position India as a leader in the design, testing, and manufacturing of eVTOLs.
Amit Dutta, the Chairman of the CII Taskforce on Short Haul Air Mobility and Managing Director of Hunch Mobility, emphasized the importance of proactive measures taken by the Ministry of Civil Aviation in collaboration with various stakeholders and state governments. He believes that offering sandbox environments for the trials, testing, and evaluation of eVTOLs will expedite the certification process and help develop practical applications for the advanced air mobility ecosystem.
