Ethiopian Airlines, Archer Sign Midnight eVTOL Deployment Deal
Deal details initial fleet, air taxi network plans in $30M agreement
Archer announced on March 27, 2025, it has signed an agreement with Ethiopian Airlines (ET) to deploy Midnight aircraft in Ethiopia, under Archer’s “Launch Edition” program. The agreement is valued at up to $30 million.
Archer’s Midnight is a piloted, four-passenger electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft designed for short, rapid flights with minimal charging time.
Archer reports this agreement marks Ethiopian Airlines as the second customer for its Midnight aircraft, following Abu Dhabi Aviation in February 2025.
Air Taxi Network in Ethiopia
The companies stated they will collaborate to establish an air taxi network in Ethiopia. Archer will provide pilots, technicians, and engineers to support the initial deployment. They will also explore other use cases, including eco-tourism.
Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, stated, “Our partnership with Archer Aviation marks an important step in bringing eVTOL technology to Ethiopia. Together, we aim to redefine regional travel and create new opportunities for efficient, eco-friendly transportation.”
Archer Founder and CEO Adam Goldstein said, “Africa presents an untapped opportunity for advanced air mobility. I am proud to partner with Ethiopian Airlines.”
Alastair Curtis, General Manager, Africa, at Archer, said, “This partnership with Ethiopian Airlines represents a transformative step in bringing sustainable and efficient air mobility solutions to Ethiopia and the broader African market.”
Archer states its aim is to replace 60–90-minute car commutes with 10–20-minute eVTOL flights, focusing on safety, sustainability, low noise, and cost-effectiveness.