The trial flights of Archer Aviation’s first fully electric air taxi, the vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft “Midnight,” are scheduled to begin before the end of 2025. This marks a significant milestone in the evolution of urban air mobility.
Speaking on the sidelines of the “Make it in the Emirates” forum, Dr. Talib Alhinai, general manager of Archer Aviation, stated that the aircraft represents a major advancement in the country’s urban air mobility objectives, with operations set to commence in Abu Dhabi ahead of a full commercial rollout.
He noted that Archer recently launched a manufacturing facility in Georgia, United States, featuring an initial annual production capacity of 650 aircraft, with plans to expand to 2,400.
Regarding potential manufacturing in the UAE, Alhinai mentioned that the company has signed a framework agreement with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office to establish a research center and explore local production, with further details to be revealed soon.
Designed for sustainable urban transport, Midnight can accommodate four passengers and a pilot, operates entirely on electric power, and takes off and lands vertically like a helicopter. Its design and operational profile are specifically tailored for efficient short-distance flights, WAM reported.
Initial test flights in unpopulated areas
Alhinai further indicated that initial test flights will occur in unpopulated areas, gradually expanding to urban zones as part of a phased approach to full deployment. A formal date for commercial service has yet to be established.
He added that the specific date for the start of commercial service has not been determined but will be announced in due course, pending the completion of all necessary technical and operational requirements.
On the aircraft’s technical specifications, Alhinai explained that Midnight is equipped with a fixed wing and 12 electric motors—six at the front and six at the rear. The front motors can rotate between 0 and 90 degrees, allowing for a smooth transition from vertical ascent to horizontal flight in just 45 seconds.
