Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR) has revealed a new agreement with Ethiopian Airlines, making it the second carrier to join the company’s “Launch Edition” program, aimed at deploying the Midnight aircraft. Ethiopian Airlines, the largest airline in Africa and a member of the Star Alliance, serves over 140 international destinations across five continents. This collaboration will focus on establishing an all-electric air taxi network in the region using Archer’s Midnight aircraft.
The Launch Edition program, introduced in February 2025, is designed to create a scalable model for safely deploying aircraft in early adopter markets. This initiative will allow Archer to showcase the capabilities of its Midnight aircraft, build public acceptance, gain operational experience, and generate initial revenue.
Archer intends to deploy a fleet of Midnight “Launch Edition” aircraft to Ethiopian Airlines, supported by a team of Archer pilots, technicians, and engineers. The company will also supply backend software and front-end booking applications to power urban air mobility operations during the program.
While the main focus is on developing an air taxi network in the region, the two companies are also exploring additional use cases for Midnight, including eco-tourism.
The partnership was officially formalized in Addis Ababa at a signing ceremony this week. Archer and Ethiopian Airlines will continue collaborating with the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA) to ensure the efficient and safe implementation of the Midnight aircraft.
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 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 with regards to advanced air mobility, with a variety of compelling use cases that we’ll be exploring together, and I’m proud to be taking a big step forward here alongside Ethiopian Airlines.”
Alastair Curtis, General Manager, Africa, at Archer, said, “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.”
“U.S. 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,” said Nathan Stickney, Commercial Attaché, U.S. Embassy, Addis Ababa.
Archer’s vision is to revolutionize urban travel by replacing long car commutes with 10-20 minute electric air taxi flights, offering a sustainable, low-noise, and cost-effective alternative to traditional ground transportation. The Midnight is a piloted, four-passenger aircraft designed to execute rapid trips with minimal downtime for charging.
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