Source: Gulf News
The Abu Dhabi Aviation Group has signed up to launch the electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft in the UAE and outside.
An agreement has been signed with US firm Archer Aviation to deploy the 'first fleet' of its Midnight eVTOL aircraft globally, starting this year itself. The initiative is part of Archer’s 'Launch Edition' program, which was launched from Abu Dhabi in partnership with ADA.
We are excited to lead the way in launching the region’s electric air taxi service, starting right here in Abu Dhabi.
— Nader Al Hammadi, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Aviation
Safe launch of air taxis in UAE
The intent is to establish an initial fleet in coordination with UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to 'safely deploy air taxi services in the region.
Rates could be in the range of Dh800-Dh1,500. Over five thrilling days, Dubai will become the centre stage for global leaders, driving the industry forward and showcasing the latest technologies, visionary aircraft, and an electrifying flying display. An expanded exhibition hall of 8,000sqm will meet the growing demand within aerospace in the region.
The intent is to replace 60–90 minute commutes by car with an estimated 10 to 20 minute air taxi flights 'that are safe, sustainable, and low noise'.
Travel in under 30 minutes from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
These services are meant for busy routes such as Abu Dhabi to Dubai, and which would mean travel times of under 30 minutes.
The Archer Midnight is a piloted, four-passenger aircraft designed for back-to-back flights with minimal charge time between flights.
ADA and Archer will work to establish a framework that will allow latter to establish a 'pragmatic and repeatable playbook' to deploy Midnight commercially in multiple early-adopter markets.
They also plan to ramp up operational expertise, generate revenue and continue to strengthen long-term demand.
Archer will provide ADA with a team of pilots, technicians, and engineers to support the initial operational lift-off, 'ensuring a safe and efficient deployment'.
Archer also plans to offer an integrated software infrastructure, including a booking application, to support UAM operations.
According to Adam Goldstein, CEO and founder of Archer, "This is how we’ll bring Midnight from the manufacturing line to our first customers—and it’s a playbook we’ll run repeatedly as we scale our operations globally.
"Thank you to Abu Dhabi Aviation for being our first Launch Edition customer.
"We have a big year ahead.”
