Archer Partners with Ethiopian Airlines for Air Taxi Initiative
Ethiopian Airlines and Archer Aviation have joined forces in a groundbreaking agreement that could pave the way for air taxi services in Africa. Announced on March 27, 2025, the $30 million contract is a key component of Archer’s Launch Edition program, which aims to create a scalable commercialization framework for safely deploying its cutting-edge eVTOL technology in early adopter markets. Under the terms of the deal, Archer will deploy an initial fleet of its Midnight aircraft in the Ethiopian region, with a dedicated team of pilots, technicians, and engineers providing full support for the operation. This strategic partnership is designed to demonstrate the capabilities of the piloted, four-passenger Midnight eVTOL, drive public acceptance of advanced air mobility, build valuable operational experience, and generate early revenue, while exploring additional applications such as eco-tourism.
The agreement was formalized during a meeting in Addis Ababa, where representatives from Ethiopian Airlines and Archer Aviation, along with officials from the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority, discussed the details and regulatory requirements of the new initiative. Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier, is renowned for its commitment to innovation and sustainable aviation, and its Group CEO, Mesfin Tasew, emphasized the transformative potential of this partnership. He stated that the airline is committed to pioneering advanced air mobility solutions that enhance connectivity and drive sustainable aviation in Africa. Tasew explained that the collaboration with Archer Aviation marks an important step in bringing state-of-the-art eVTOL technology to Ethiopia, aiming to redefine regional travel and create new opportunities for efficient, eco-friendly transportation. By integrating this new mode of air travel, Ethiopian Airlines hopes to offer faster, more sustainable solutions that complement its existing long-haul and regional networks.
Archer Aviation, a leader in the development of electrical vehicle takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, sees Africa as an untapped market with significant potential. Archer’s Founder and CEO, Adam Goldstein, noted that following the announcement of Abu Dhabi Aviation as its first Launch Edition customer last month, partnering with Ethiopian Airlines represents another major milestone. Goldstein highlighted that Africa offers a wide range of compelling use cases for advanced air mobility, and he expressed his pride in taking a significant step forward in this region with Ethiopian Airlines. The company is focused on not only developing the technical capabilities of its Midnight aircraft but also providing the necessary back-end software infrastructure and front-end booking applications to ensure seamless operational functionality.
In addition to these initiatives, Archer recently received its FAA Part 141 certificate on February 18, 2025, signifying its formal recognition as a pilot training institution. This certification follows earlier approvals under the FAA’s Part 135 Air Carrier & Operator Certificate in June 2024 and its Part 145 certification in February 2024. These milestones reinforce Archer’s commitment to safety and operational excellence as it prepares to introduce its innovative eVTOL technology to new markets. With the support of Ethiopian Airlines, Archer Aviation is poised to transform regional travel, offering a glimpse into the future of efficient, eco-friendly urban air mobility.
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