Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
After choosing Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA) as its first partner for deploying its Midnight electric air taxis, Archer Aviation has now signed an agreement with Ethiopian Airlines to introduce the aircraft in Africa.
Under this partnership, Archer and Ethiopian Airlines will collaborate to establish an all-electric air taxi network in the region using Archer’s Midnight aircraft. The two companies are also exploring additional applications for Midnight, including eco-tourism.
Archer launched its "Launch Edition" programme in February 2025 to create a scalable framework for safely deploying its aircraft in early adopter markets. Through this initiative, Archer aims to demonstrate Midnight’s capabilities, drive public acceptance, gain operational experience, and generate early revenue.
As part of the agreement, Ethiopian Airlines will receive an initial fleet of Midnight aircraft, supported by a team of Archer pilots, technicians, and engineers. Archer will also provide backend software infrastructure and a booking platform to facilitate urban air mobility operations.
The partnership was formalised during a signing ceremony in Addis Ababa. Moving forward, both companies will work with the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA) to ensure the smooth and safe integration of Midnight into the country’s transport system.
Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, said: “We are committed to pioneering advanced air mobility solutions that enhance connectivity and drive sustainable aviation in Africa. 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 Founder and CEO, Adam Goldstein, said: “Last month, we announced Abu Dhabi Aviation as our first Launch Edition customer—today, we’re following that up with our second, Ethiopian Airlines. Africa presents an untapped opportunity for advanced air mobility, with a variety of compelling use cases that we’ll be exploring together. I’m proud to be taking this big step forward alongside Ethiopian Airlines.”
Alastair Curtis, General Manager, Africa, at Archer, added: “This partnership with Ethiopian Airlines represents a transformative step in bringing sustainable and efficient air mobility solutions to Ethiopia and the broader African market. At Archer, we’re committed to working with forward-thinking partners to unlock the potential of eVTOL technology. This is just the beginning of a new era of aviation for Africa.”
Nathan Stickney, Commercial Attaché at the US Embassy in Addis Ababa, commented: “US aviation companies have time and again highlighted the best of American quality and innovation, and we’re excited at the opportunity for Archer to make an impact in the region while making America more prosperous through its new agreement with Ethiopian Airlines.”
Archer aims to revolutionise urban travel by replacing lengthy 60–90-minute car commutes with 10–20-minute electric air taxi flights that are safe, sustainable, low-noise, and cost-competitive with ground transportation. Midnight, Archer’s flagship aircraft, is a piloted, four-passenger eVTOL designed for rapid, back-to-back trips with minimal charging time between flights.
