New Delhi: Zomato’s former Chief Operating Officer (COO) Surobhi Das has co-founded LAT Aerospace, a startup focused on developing short takeoff and landing (STOL) aircraft to improve regional air connectivity.
Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal has invested $20 million in the venture and will serve in a non-executive role, primarily as an investor and mentor.
LAT Aerospace’s Focus on STOL Aircraft
LAT Aerospace aims to build low-cost STOL aircraft with a capacity of up to 24 seats and a range of 1,500 km.
These aircraft will be designed for intercity travel and will not require large airport infrastructure, allowing them to operate from compact airstrips. The startup’s approach differs from air taxi services, which focus on shorter urban routes.
Funding and Talent Acquisition
The company is in discussions to raise $50 million in seed funding to accelerate development.
It is also looking to expand its team by hiring engineers specializing in aerodynamics, material sciences, and hybrid propulsion systems.
Background of Founders
Surobhi Das, who spent over a decade at Zomato, left the company in November 2023. She played a key role in Zomato’s operations and later worked on expanding Blinkit, the company’s quick-commerce platform.
Prior to Zomato, she was a consultant at Bain & Company, where Goyal also previously worked.
While Das will lead LAT Aerospace’s operations, Goyal’s role will be limited to financial backing and mentorship. The startup’s progress in securing funding and developing its first aircraft will be closely watched as it enters a competitive aviation market.
