Archer Aviation has signed a contract with Ethiopian Airlines and is the second customer plan to roll out 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 are currently working to bring an all-electric air taxi network into the area.
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 thrive more 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.
