Deepinder Goyal, the billionaire co-founder of Zomato, has joined hands with Surobhi Das, the former chief operating officer of Zomato, to launch a new aerospace startup called LAT Aerospace. According to reports, the startup is currently operating in stealth mode and aims to revolutionize regional air travel in India.
Goyal has invested $20 million into LAT Aerospace, taking on a non-executive role as an investor and mentor. Meanwhile, Surobhi Das will lead the company’s daily operations, focusing on building an advanced aviation system that connects smaller cities efficiently.
Plans for Regional Aviation
LAT Aerospace plans to design and manufacture low-cost aircraft that can carry between 12 to 24 passengers. These Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) aircraft will make travel between small cities, towns, and remote areas more accessible and affordable.
The company envisions a future where air travel does not rely on traditional airports. Instead, its compact aircraft will take off and land from “air-stops” that are as small as a parking lot. This could eliminate the need for expensive airport infrastructure, security bottlenecks, and baggage belts, making travel faster and hassle-free.
LAT Aerospace Seeks Funding
In addition to Goyal’s initial investment, LAT Aerospace is currently in talks to raise $50 million in a seed funding round. The company is looking to hire engineers, designers, and experts across various fields, including aerodynamics, material sciences, and hybrid propulsion systems.
Surobhi Das, who left Zomato in November 2023, has previously worked with Bain & Company and brings strong leadership and operational expertise to the startup. She believes that LAT Aerospace will transform regional aviation by offering efficient and affordable flight options to smaller towns and cities.
Vision for Future of Air Travel
Sharing her thoughts on LinkedIn, Das expressed excitement about the project, highlighting how she and Goyal had often discussed ways to improve regional aviation while working at Zomato. According to Das, LAT Aerospace is not just building aircraft but rethinking how people fly.
She described the compact air-stops as a game-changer, allowing flights to operate without large airports or unnecessary delays. This concept could enable seamless connectivity between major cities and hundreds of smaller towns, offering a more convenient and efficient alternative to traditional airline travel.
Deepinder Goyal Support
Deepinder Goyal also shared his excitement about bringing this long-time vision to life. In response to Das’ announcement, he encouraged engineers and experts in aircraft design, aerodynamics, materials & composites, hybrid propulsion systems, and turbo-machinery to join LAT Aerospace and help build the future of regional air travel.
With a strong financial backing, an experienced leadership team, and a bold vision, LAT Aerospace is set to disrupt the aviation industry and make regional air travel more accessible. As the company continues to develop its STOL aircraft, it could pave the way for a new era of affordable, efficient, and hassle-free air transportation in India.
