Ethiopian joins the air taxi queue as it signs agreement with Archer
March 28, 2025
Africa’s largest carrier, Ethiopian Airlines, has signed an agreement with Archer to deploy a fleet of Midnight aircraft, as the airline looks to pave the way for an all-electric air taxi network to the region.
Ethiopian Airlines is the second customer planning to deploy Archers’ Midnight under its Launch Edition programme, following the announcement in February of Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA) as the first Launch Edition customer. As with ADA, the agreement with Ethiopian will also see Archer provide the airline with a team of pilots, technicians and engineers to support the initial deployment. It will also provide backend software infrastructure and front-end booking applications to help power urban air mobility operations during the Launch Edition programme. It is yet to be confirmed how big the initial fleet operated by Ethiopian Airlines is expected to be, or when deployment is expected.
The two companies will work closely with the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA) on developing efficient and safer eVTOL operations with a focus primarily on providing passenger transport. However broader use cases for Midnight are also being explored, including eco-tourism.
“We are committed to pioneering advanced air mobility solutions that enhance connectivity and drive sustainable aviation in Africa,” said Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines. “Our partnership with Archer Aviation marks an important step in bringing cutting-edge eVTOL technology to Ethiopia. Together, we aim to redefine regional travel and create new opportunities for efficient, eco-friendly transportation.”
Archer’s aim is to provide safe, sustainable, low-noise transportation with the piloted, four-passenger Midnight aircraft expected to replace 60-90 minute commutes by car with 10-20 minute electric air taxi flights. While Archer completed an uncrewed transition flight in June 2024, it has yet to fly a crewed example of Midnight. Archer is currently seeking to certify and commercialise its Midnight. The company has said previously that production was planned for early 2025 from its facility at Covington Municipal Airport, with a goal of two aircraft per month by the end of this year. However, with the first quarter of the year now passed, the company has yet to provide an update on its production timeline.
