Archer today announced that it has signed an agreement that outlines plans to deploy the early fleet of Midnight aircraft to Ethiopian Airlines, the largest airline in Africa and a member of Star Alliance, under Archer's “released” program, which is up to $30 million. The company is working together to build an air taxi network in the region, and Archer plans to support the Ethiopian Airlines with a team of pilots, engineers and engineers in the early deployment of Ethiopia's early release Midnight Aircraft. The two companies will primarily focus on developing aerial taxi networks in the region, but will also explore other use cases, including ecotourism.
Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR) today announced that it has signed a contract with Ethiopian Airlines, making it the second customer plan to deploy Archer's Midnight under the “Launch Edition” program. Ethiopian Airlines, the largest airline in Africa and a proud member of the Star Alliance, operates an extensive global network offering over 140 international destinations across five continents. The two will work to bring an all-electric air taxi network into the area using Archer's Midnight Aircraft.
Archer announced the launch program in February 2025, creating a scalable commercialization framework for safely deploying aircraft in the early recruitment market, demonstrating the capabilities of midnight aircraft, promoting public acceptance, building operational experience and generating early revenue.
To support this initial deployment, Archer will deploy the first fleet of Midnight Edition aircraft to Ethiopian Airlines, along with a team of Archer pilots, engineers and engineers. Archer will also provide backend software infrastructure and frontend booking applications to assist in urban air mobility operations during the Launch Edition program.
Archer and Ethiopian airlines will primarily focus on developing regional aviation taxi networks using midnight, while the two are exploring using midnight for a wider use case, including ecotourism.
Archer and the Ethiopian airline officially made the partnership a signing ceremony in Addis Ababa this week. The two will work with Ethiopia's Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA) to operate them efficiently and safely during the middle of the night.
“We are pleased to announce that we are pleased to announce that we are a great place to go,” said Mesfin Tasew, group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines. “We are committed to pioneering air mobility solutions that enhance connectivity in Africa and promote sustainable aviation. Our partnership with Archer Air tells us the key steps to bring cutting-edge EVTOL technology to Ethiopia.
“We're committed to providing a great opportunity to help you,” said Adam Goldstein, founder and CEO of Archer. “Last month we announced Abu Dhabi Airlines as the customer for its first launch edition, and we are following it on the second Ethiopian Airline.
Alastair Curtis, general manager of Africa at Archer, said: “The partnership with Ethiopian Airlines represents a transformative step towards bringing sustainable and efficient air mobility solutions to Ethiopia and the wider African market.
“US airlines have repeatedly highlighted the best of America's quality and innovation. We are excited about the opportunity for Archer to make America even more prosperous through a new agreement with Ethiopian Airlines.”
Archer's goal is to transform urban travel and replace 60-90 minute commutes with safe, sustainable, low-noise, cost-competitive electric aviation taxi flights with ground transport, estimated 10-20 minute. The Archer's Midnight is a pilot four-seater aircraft designed to provide quick, continuous travel with minimal charging times between flights.
About Archer
Archer designs and develops the key enablement technologies and aircraft needed to promote the future of aviation. For more information, please visit www.archer.com.
About Ethiopia
Ethiopian Airlines Group (Ethiopia) is a true African success story, transforming fantastic dreams into world-famous reality for nearly 80 years. Ethiopian Airlines is committed to environmental sustainability through its continued investment in modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, innovative green initiatives and sustainable aviation practices. As a leading African airline, Ethiopia prioritizes reducing carbon emissions, improving operational efficiency, and implementing environmentally friendly solutions throughout its operations. Ethiopians are dedicated to building a greener future for global aviation, from adopting cutting-edge technology to promoting planting projects. For more information, please visit www.ethiopianairlines.com
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