Credit By: Khaleej Times
Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and US-based Archer Aviation have joined forces to launch air taxi operations in the UAE Capital and across the country in 2026. Abu Dhabi is set to become Archer’s first international launch partner for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. As part of the collaboration, ADIO plans to provide incentives for Archer to establish its first international headquarters and manufacturing facilities in the Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industry (Savi) Cluster in Abu Dhabi.
International Launch Partner:
Abu Dhabi will be the first international location for Archer’s electric air taxis.
Support from ADIO:
The Abu Dhabi Investment Office plans to support Archer with incentives to establish its international headquarters and manufacturing facilities in Abu Dhabi.
GCAA Inspection:
The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has inspected Archer’s Midnight eVTOL aircraft at its global headquarters in California. The goal is to approve Archer’s air taxi for operation in the UAE once it is certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Transformation of Urban Travel:
Archer aims to transform urban travel by replacing 60 to 90-minute commutes by car with 10 to 20-minute electric air taxi flights.
Investment and Funding:
Archer has raised over $1.1 billion, with investments from Mubadala Capital, United Airlines, Stellantis, and Boeing.
Debut at Dubai Airshow:
Archer is expected to showcase its Midnight aircraft for the first time in the region at the Dubai Airshow.
Commercial Operations by 2026:
Archer plans to commercialize its operations in the UAE by 2026.
Industry Partnerships:
Archer is working with industry partners in the UAE, including Falcon Aviation and GAL-AMMROC, to support its plans for commercialization.
The collaboration aims to bring electric aviation to the UAE, addressing urban congestion with zero emissions and contributing to the region’s foreign direct investment and job creation over the next decade. Archer’s Midnight is a piloted, four-passenger eVTOL aircraft designed for rapid back-to-back flights with minimal charge time between flights.
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