Ethiopian Airlines has partnered with Archer Aviation to launch electric air taxis in Ethiopia, marking a significant milestone in Africa’s advanced air mobility sector.
The agreement, part of Archer’s “Launch Edition” programme valued at up to USD 30 million, aims to introduce the Midnight aircraft for commercial operations in the region.
Under the partnership, Archer will supply Ethiopian Airlines with pilots, technicians, and engineers to support the initial deployment of the four-passenger Midnight aircraft. Designed for rapid, back-to-back trips with minimal charge time between flights, the Midnight aircraft is engineered to revolutionize urban air mobility.
The collaboration also extends beyond air taxi services, with both companies exploring broader applications for Midnight, including eco-tourism. Ethiopian Airlines and Archer will work closely with the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA) to ensure the safe integration of these aircraft into the country’s airspace.
Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO, Ethiopian Airlines, emphasised the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in aviation. “We are committed to pioneering advanced air mobility solutions that enhance connectivity and drive sustainable aviation in Africa. Our partnership with Archer Aviation marks an important step in bringing cutting-edge eVTOL technology to Ethiopia,” Tasew stated.
Archer Aviation CEO Adam Goldstein highlighted Africa’s potential as an emerging market for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology. “Last month we announced Abu Dhabi Aviation as our first Launch Edition customer—today we’re following that up with our second, Ethiopian Airlines. Africa presents an untapped opportunity with regards to advanced air mobility, with a variety of compelling use cases that we’ll be exploring together,” Goldstein said.
The “Launch Edition” programme, introduced by Archer in February 2025, is designed to facilitate the commercial deployment of its aircraft in early adopter markets. It focuses on showcasing the Midnight aircraft’s capabilities, generating early revenue, and fostering public acceptance of electric air taxis. Archer will also provide backend software infrastructure and front-end booking applications to support urban air mobility operations.
In December 2024, Archer Aviation completed the construction of its high-volume manufacturing facility, ARC, in Georgia, US. Located next to Covington Municipal Airport, the facility spans approximately 400,000 square feet and is expected to support the large-scale production of Midnight aircraft.
The Ethiopian Airlines-Archer partnership represents a key development in the evolution of electric air travel, positioning Ethiopia as a leader in sustainable aviation on the African continent.
