Zomato founder and CEO Deepinder Goyal is making a significant foray into the aerospace industry with a $20 million investment in LAT Aerospace, a startup founded by former Zomato executive Surobhi Das. According to reports from The Economic Times, Goyal will assume a non-executive cofounder role, while Das, previously Zomato’s chief operating officer, will lead the company’s day-to-day operations.
Sources familiar with the development highlight that while both Goyal and Das are considered co-founders, Goyal’s role will primarily focus on investment and mentorship. LAT Aerospace, currently operating in stealth mode, is dedicated to developing cost-effective short takeoff and landing (STOL) aircraft with seating capacities of up to 24 passengers, aiming to revolutionize regional air connectivity.
The startup is reportedly in discussions to secure $50 million in seed funding and is actively recruiting experts in aerodynamics, material sciences, and hybrid propulsion systems. Unlike air-taxi startups, LAT Aerospace is focusing on developing aircraft capable of covering distances up to 1,500 km. With Goyal’s strategic backing and Das’s leadership, the company is set to disrupt the aviation sector by enhancing accessibility to underserved regions.