Abu Dhabi Aviation Group (ADA) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Archer Aviation to deploy the first fleet of its Midnight electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft globally, beginning this year. This partnership marks a significant step in advancing urban air mobility in the UAE and sets the stage for global deployment of Archer’s cutting-edge electric air taxis.
Launching the First eVTOL Fleet in the Region
The initiative is part of Archer’s global “Launch Edition,” which will kick off in Abu Dhabi. This partnership with ADA and the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) will establish an initial fleet of Midnight eVTOLs and safely deploy air taxi services in the region. The collaboration aims to set a strong foundation for Archer’s global expansion and establish a replicable model for the commercial launch of Midnight aircraft in early adopter markets.
Both parties have committed to developing a practical framework that will allow Archer to build operational expertise, generate revenue, and strengthen long-term demand for the eVTOL service.
Support for Safe and Efficient Deployment
Beyond the deployment of the aircraft, Archer will provide ADA with a team of skilled pilots, technicians, and engineers to support the initial operational ramp-up, ensuring a safe and smooth rollout. Archer will also offer integrated software infrastructure, including a booking application to facilitate seamless urban air mobility (UAM) operations.
Strategic Commitment from Abu Dhabi Aviation
The MoU signing ceremony was attended by Nader Al Hammadi, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Aviation, and Badr Al Olama, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). During the event, ADA announced its intention to fund the deployment of Midnight aircraft, positioning itself as the first operator of electric air taxis in the region.
“We have been observing the advancements in eVTOL technology for years, and we are proud to partner with Archer to bring this innovation to the UAE,” said Al Hammadi. “As a leading force in the aviation industry across the region and the largest helicopter operator in the Middle East, Abu Dhabi Aviation has the expertise to develop a scalable urban air mobility service. We are excited to lead the way in launching the region’s electric air taxi service, starting right here in Abu Dhabi.”
Archer’s Vision for the Future of Urban Travel
Adam Goldstein, CEO and founder of Archer, expressed his excitement for the collaboration: “The unveiling of Launch Edition marks the beginning of the next chapter for Archer. This is how we’ll bring Midnight from the manufacturing line to our first customers—and it’s a playbook we’ll run repeatedly as we scale our operations globally. Thank you to Abu Dhabi Aviation for being our first Launch Edition customer. We have a big year ahead.”
Archer’s goal is to revolutionize urban travel, replacing long car commutes with electric air taxi flights that are faster, more sustainable, and quieter. The Midnight aircraft is designed to carry four passengers, performing back-to-back flights with minimal charge time between journeys, making it a viable solution for reducing congestion in urban areas.
This partnership is a major step toward reshaping the future of transportation, and Abu Dhabi is set to become a key player in the electric air mobility revolution.
