Abu Dhabi: Archer Aviation Inc. has taken a significant step toward launching commercial air taxi services in Abu Dhabi through a multi-party cooperation agreement signed under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs.
The agreement, facilitated by the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council, formalizes collaboration between key UAE stakeholders, including the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Abu Dhabi Airports, Falcon Aviation Services, Etihad Aviation Training, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Global Air Navigation Services (GANS), Global Aerospace Logistics (GAL), and Abu Dhabi’s Integrated Transport Center.
As part of this collaboration, Abu Dhabi will establish the region’s first manufacturer of vertical electric vehicles, strengthening its position as a hub for cutting-edge mobility solutions. Badr Al-Olama, Director-General of ADIO, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating that, “This partnership marks a major milestone in advancing smart and autonomous mobility solutions, solidifying Abu Dhabi as a global leader in the sector.”
The GCAA, which has been working closely with Archer, emphasized safety as a priority. Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the GCAA, stated that, “Today’s consortium announcement underscores the importance of collaboration to safely introduce Archer’s Midnight aircraft to the UAE.”
Etihad Aviation Training will support pilot recruitment and training. CEO Captain Paolo La Cava noted that, “Abu Dhabi continues to lead aviation innovation, and we’re excited to train pilots for Archer’s air taxis, which will soon benefit key destinations like Zayed International Airport.”
Archer Aviation’s Chief Commercial Officer, Nikhil Goel, lauded the UAE’s progressive approach. Nikhil Goel expressed that, “These partnerships are key to turning our vision into reality. Abu Dhabi’s forward-thinking strategy and extensive support make it the ideal launchpad for Midnight.”
The GCAA and Archer have already laid the groundwork through a workshop at Archer’s headquarters in November 2024, focusing on regulatory frameworks for the aircraft’s certification and commercial procedures.