BluJ Aero plans to develop a cargo variant by 2026-27 and a passenger variant by 2027-28. “Currently, our focus is on the cargo variant. We also plan to develop an air ambulance, as a modification of the cargo variant and a passenger variant is expected to carry five to seven people. Air taxis will be considered later, subject to regulations as well,” Dharmapuri said. The company is also working on a defence variant for high-altitude, multi-utility cases, including relief and supply operations for the Indian military in remote areas.
Co-founder M Amardeep Sri Vatsavaya emphasised the technology’s advantages, including eliminating the need for airports and providing speeds that surpass most helicopters.
“We are proud to be building Hydrogen-Electric VTOL aircraft, showcasing Indian innovation in propulsion and autonomy. Our goal is to enable fast, green, and commercially viable air transport for both Civil and defence sectors,” he said emphasising that the aircraft is powered by a hydrogen fuel cell system, the company’s proprietary.
Dharmapuri remarked on the varied perceptions among investors and potential customers, with some seeing the technology as a future prospect while others recognize its immediate value for logistics.
Running the aircraft on a traditional fuel battery was not found to be effective by the BluJ. “Using a combination of electric and hydrogen gives REACH four times more range along with the capability to carry heavy payload. Solar energy is also not able to deliver power for the blades”, a member told TNIE.
Recalling the recent regulations from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regarding powered lift-off of air taxis and eVTOL craft, he noted that the DGCA has also made significant progress in drone and eVTOL technology. “They have established craft and vertiport rules, and efforts are underway. The Union and state governments are promoting advanced air mobility, with UAV parks announced for testing. Regulators are developing indigenous rules for certification and vertiport creation. While it will take time, we are moving in a positive direction,” he said.
