Ethiopian Airlines has announced a groundbreaking partnership with US-based Archer Aviation to introduce electric vertical takeoff and landing (EVTOL) technology to Ethiopia. Under Archer's “Launch Edition” program, the airline will deploy a midnight aircraft fleet, serving as a key step towards sustainable air movement in Africa.
The agreement, signed in Addis Ababa on March 27, 2025, positions Ethiopian Airlines at the forefront of next-generation air transport on the continent. All-electric midnight aircraft will serve as the basis for new aviation taxi services aimed at reducing city congestion and promoting efficient low-emission travel.
Through this collaboration, Ethiopian Airlines will integrate Archer pilots, technicians and booking technology into its operations, ensuring a seamless rollout of EVTOL services. The initiative will also explore ecotourism applications, further enhancing Ethiopia's reputation as a major aviation hub in Africa.
Ethiopia's Civil Aviation Authority oversees regulatory aspects of the project and ensures the safe integration of EVTOL operations within the country's airspace.
Ethiopian Airlines is the second confirmed partner in Archer's launch version scheme, pursuant to a similar agreement with Abu Dhabi Airlines. This expansion illustrates the growing global interest in EVTOL technology as a viable solution for urban and regional air mobility.
As African Airlines continues to evolve, Ethiopian Airlines' adoption of electric air taxis could set precedents for other airlines in the region and drive a shift towards more sustainable and innovative transportation solutions.
