The news
- Ethiopian Airlines partners with Archer Aviation to introduce electric air taxis in Africa.
- The initiative aims to establish an all-electric air taxi network in Ethiopia.
- Archer’s Midnight aircraft, designed for rapid, short-haul flights, will be deployed. This collaboration signifies a major step in revolutionising urban air mobility on the continent.
Ethiopian Airlines has entered into a partnership with US-based Archer Aviation to launch an electric air taxi service in Ethiopia. This initiative aims to establish an all-electric air taxi network in the region, marking a significant advancement in urban air mobility on the continent.
Under the agreement, Ethiopian Airlines will deploy Archer’s Midnight aircraft, a four-passenger electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle designed for rapid, consecutive short-haul flights with minimal charging time between trips. Archer will provide pilots, technicians, and engineers to support the initial deployment and ensure seamless integration into Ethiopia’s aviation infrastructure.
Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, emphasised the airline’s commitment to pioneering advanced air mobility solutions that enhance connectivity and promote sustainable aviation in Africa. He stated, “Our partnership with Archer Aviation marks an important step in bringing cutting-edge eVTOL technology to Ethiopia.”
This collaboration not only focuses on developing an air taxi network but also explores broader applications for the Midnight aircraft, including ecotourism.
By integrating electric air taxis into its operations, Ethiopian Airlines aims to address urban congestion, reduce carbon emissions, and offer efficient transportation alternatives in densely populated areas.
The introduction of electric air taxis presents a compelling business case for African cities grappling with traffic congestion and limited ground infrastructure. Urban air mobility solutions like the Midnight aircraft can provide efficient, point-to-point transportation, alleviating pressure on existing transit systems and offering a sustainable alternative to traditional ground transport.
Archer’s founder and CEO, Adam Goldstein, highlighted the untapped potential for advanced air mobility in Africa, noting that the partnership with Ethiopian Airlines represents a significant step forward in exploring various use cases on the continent.
This venture aligns with a broader trend of airlines collaborating with eVTOL manufacturers to revolutionise short-haul travel. For instance, Archer recently announced a similar agreement with Abu Dhabi Aviation, indicating growing global interest in electric air taxi services.
