Goa has taken a pioneering step toward next-generation travel and technology with the signing of a landmark 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 collaboration aims to establish an Advanced Design & Development Center in the State and integrate VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) technology into Goa’s future tourism and mobility 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, alongside senior officials including Shri Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director, DITE&C; Shri Kedar Naik, Director, DOT; Dr. Milind Sakhardande, Joint Director, DITE&C; Shri Shawn Mendes, OSD to the Minister for Tourism; Shri Neville Noronha, OSD to the Minister of IT; Shri D.S. Prashant, CEO, SITPC; and Mr. Adrian Schmidt, Co-founder & CEO, Sarla Aviation.

Goa Prepares for the Future of Aerial Mobility

Speaking at the event, Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte stated that the collaboration marks a transformational moment for Goa:
“This partnership sets the stage for Goa’s entry into next-generation mobility and design-driven industries. With VTOL technology and advanced aerospace design coming into the State, we see new possibilities for innovation, tourism and sustainable mobility. Most importantly, this collaboration will open pathways for Goan youth through skilling, apprenticeships and high-value jobs.”

He emphasized that Goa’s technology adoption strategy will always prioritise economic strengthening and public benefit.

Sarla Aviation to Build Long-Term Innovation Base in Goa

Under the MoU, Sarla Aviation will establish a long-term innovation center focused on advanced aerospace design, system research, testing and prototype development. The startup—backed by Accel, Nikhil Kamath, Binny Bansal and Sriharsha Majety—is developing a six-seater electric VTOL (eVTOL) aircraft aimed at easing ground congestion through clean, efficient aerial mobility solutions.

This will position Goa as a national leader in design-led, high-value technology sectors.

Roadmap for India’s First Coastal Aerial Mobility State

The agreement outlines a comprehensive plan to introduce VTOL-based urban and coastal air mobility in Goa, including:

• Collaboration with hotel groups, resort owners and tourism operators for premium VTOL tourism services

• Development of a Goa Urban Air Mobility (UAM) Policy

• Exploration of airport-to-resort air connectivity

• Support for a Goa-based VTOL service operator, with facilitation to ensure accessible and viable services

These steps aim to make Goa the first state in India to integrate coastal aerial mobility into mainstream tourism and transportation.

Government and Industry Leaders Speak

Shri Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director, DITE&C, called the partnership a catalyst for tech-led growth:
“This collaboration brings advanced aerospace design into Goa’s innovation ecosystem and aligns with our long-term vision for technology-led development.”

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, highlighted its potential to redefine travel experiences:
“VTOL technology will enable seamless, eco-conscious connectivity across beaches, resorts and hinterland destinations, reshaping Goa’s tourism experience.”

Mr. Adrian Schmidt, CEO, Sarla Aviation, expressed gratitude and shared ambitious plans:
“With Goa’s support, we are proud to begin expanding our Air Taxi operation networks and bring Advanced Air Mobility to Goans as early as 2029. Goa’s lifestyle and talent ecosystem make it an ideal base for our first Satellite Studio.”

A Future-Ready Vision for Goa

The collaboration strengthens Goa’s commitment to futuristic technologies, creative industries and new-age mobility. It also promises high-end skilling opportunities, cutting-edge research avenues and next-generation careers for Goan youth, while simultaneously boosting the State’s tourism value proposition.

With this MoU, Goa has firmly positioned itself as a bold, forward-looking hub for aviation innovation and coastal aerial mobility in India.