Goa has taken a bold step toward transforming its tourism and technology landscape with the signing of a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (DITE&C), the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, and Sarla Aviation Pvt. Ltd. The partnership aims to make Goa India’s first Coastal Aerial Mobility State by integrating advanced VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) systems into its tourism and transport ecosystem.
The MoU was signed at Paryatan Bhavan, Patto, in the presence of Hon’ble Minister for IT, Electronics & Communications and Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, along with senior government officials and industry representatives.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Khaunte said, “This partnership sets the stage for Goa’s entry into next-generation mobility and design-driven industries. With VTOL technology and aerospace design entering Goa, we’re unlocking new opportunities in innovation, tourism, and sustainable mobility—creating pathways for Goan youth through skilling, apprenticeships, and high-value jobs.”
Under the agreement, Sarla Aviation, a startup backed by Accel, Nikhil Kamath, Binny Bansal, and Sriharsha Majety, will establish a long-term Advanced Design & Development Center in Goa. The center will serve as a hub for innovation, research, system design, testing, and prototype development of electric VTOL (eVTOL) aircraft. The company is developing a six-seater eVTOL aircraft designed to reduce road congestion and promote clean, efficient aerial mobility.
As part of the roadmap, Goa will also frame a Goa-specific Urban Air Mobility (UAM) Policy and explore VTOL-based services for hotel and resort connectivity. These initiatives will enable tourism-linked air mobility, allowing visitors to travel quickly and sustainably between airports, beaches, and hinterland attractions.
Shri Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director, DITE&C, highlighted that this collaboration will strengthen Goa’s technology-driven economy: “With policy support, infrastructure, and skilled talent, Goa is positioned to become a testing ground for futuristic technologies like VTOL.”
Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, added that the project aligns with Goa’s goal of offering unique, eco-conscious travel experiences. “Integrating aerial mobility will redefine how tourists explore Goa—enhancing access, reducing travel time, and creating memorable journeys that blend innovation with sustainability,” he said.
Mr. Adrian Schmidt, Co-founder & CEO of Sarla Aviation, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, remarking that the company aims to launch Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) services by 2029. “We see Goa as a natural home for future mobility innovation. Our new Satellite Studio here will attract world-class talent and strengthen India’s position as a global aviation hub,” he stated.
The MoU underscores Goa’s commitment to building a modern, technology-enabled tourism ecosystem. By blending aerospace innovation with its natural and cultural strengths, Goa aspires to lead India’s transition into the era of coastal aerial mobility—setting a model for tourism-led sustainable development nationwide.
