ABU DHABI: In a major leap towards futuristic air mobility, Archer Aviation has successfully completed test flights of its Midnight electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) air taxi at Al Bateen Executive Airport. This trial is a collaborative effort between Archer, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), and the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC), aligning with the emirate’s broader vision for next-generation transport solutions.
The event, observed by senior officials from the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), ADIO, Abu Dhabi Aviation, Abu Dhabi Airports, and the Integrated Transport Centre, marks the first step in Archer’s plan to launch commercial eVTOL services in the UAE. The aircraft’s performance under UAE-specific conditions—like intense summer heat, high humidity, and dust—was critically evaluated.
The Midnight aircraft is designed to carry four passengers and a pilot, using electric propulsion to reduce emissions and noise. The tests provided crucial data for Archer’s ongoing certification processes, helping to gauge commercial readiness in both the UAE and future Middle East markets.
Badr Al Olama, Director-General of ADIO, commented, “This flight marks a significant step towards realising Abu Dhabi’s ambition to lead the world in advanced urban air mobility.” Archer’s testing is supported by the Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) Cluster, positioning the UAE capital as a global innovation hub.
Adam Goldstein, CEO and Founder of Archer, added, “Testing our aircraft in the middle of the UAE summer provides the data we need to progress both locally and in the US.”
This milestone also supports the company’s Launch Edition commercialisation programme with Abu Dhabi Aviation, aimed at establishing air taxi services across the emirate. The partnership includes recent developments such as regulatory approval for the UAE’s first hybrid heliport at the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal, further enhancing the infrastructure for air mobility.
Archer’s choice of Abu Dhabi as the debut city for its Midnight aircraft showcases the emirate’s leadership in sustainable urban transport and its commitment to being a first-mover in innovative, clean mobility solutions.
