Aerospace startup Sarla Aviation raises $10 Mn led by Accel

Sarla Aviation, an aerospace startup developing electric aircraft for flying taxis, has secured $10 million in funding, led by Accel.

Angel investors, including Flipkart co-founder Binny Bansal, Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath, and Swiggy’s Sriharsha Majety, also participated in the round.

Sarla Aviation intends to utilize the funds to establish a research and development center in Bengaluru. The company also plans to launch its flying taxis by 2028.

Founded in 2024 by Adrian Schmidt, Rakesh Gaonkar, and Shivam Chauhan, the company is preparing to debut its first prototype, named Shunya, on January 17 at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo in New Delhi. The aircraft is built to carry up to 680 kilograms and accommodate six passengers, in addition to the pilot.

Last year, Sarla Aviation partnered with Bengaluru International Airport to prepare for the rollout of its flying taxi service.

The development follows Accel's launch of a $650 million eighth fund to support early-stage startups in India and Southeast Asia, focusing on enterprise AI, consumer services, fintech, and manufacturing

In November of last year, electric aircraft startup The ePlane Company raised $14 million. The startup is developing an eVTOL aircraft aimed at offering intra-city commutes and cargo transport. InterGlobe Enterprises and US-based Archer Aviation have also announced plans to launch an all-electric air taxi service in India by 2026.