Electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft company, Archer Aviation, has announced a partnership with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) to commence air taxi operations in Abu Dhabi by 2026. This collaboration aims to establish Archer’s first international headquarters and manufacturing facilities in the Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industry (SAVI) Cluster in Abu Dhabi.
This strategic move was confirmed during a signing ceremony that involved key aviation industry representatives, including Falcon Aviation and GAL-AMMROC. Archer is set to participate in the upcoming Dubai Air Show from November 13-17, where it will unveil its Midnight aircraft. Moreover, discussions are underway between Archer and multiple industry partners to finalize more Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs).
In conjunction with Stellantis, its global manufacturing partner, and other local UAE entities, Archer intends to enhance its aircraft manufacturing capabilities. It will also focus on advancing next-generation aviation technologies at its Center of Excellence in Abu Dhabi.
His Excellency Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the General Civil Aviation Authority, expressed enthusiasm about Archer’s developments, stating their intention to grant approval for Archer's air taxi operations in the UAE upon its certification by the Federal Aviation Administration.
His Excellency Badr Al-Olama, from the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, highlighted the environmental and economic benefits this initiative will bring to the region.
Archer’s CEO, Adam Goldstein, emphasized the strategic nature of this partnership, positioning the UAE as Archer’s premier international market outside the U.S. The collaboration aims to significantly advance electric air taxi operations in the UAE in the near future.
Meera Al Suwaidi of Mubadala Investment Company voiced support for Archer, particularly for its upcoming debut at the Dubai Air Show, while Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis, highlighted the potential growth for urban air mobility in the Middle East.
Additional collaborations in the UAE include signed MOUs with Falcon Aviation, which will operate Archer’s air taxis in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and GAL-AMMROC, chosen to offer support for Archer’s eVTOL aircraft maintenance.
Falcon Aviation’s Vice Chairman, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Sultan Bin Khalifa, expressed optimism for the transformative nature of this venture, with Mahmood Alhay Alhameli, CEO of GAL & AMMROC, equally enthusiastic about their partnership with Archer.
Archer aims to revolutionize urban commutes, proposing to significantly reduce travel time by offering rapid, sustainable, and cost-effective electric autonomous transport flights with its Midnight aircraft.
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