On Friday, Archer Aviation Inc. (ACHR) entered into a memorandum of understanding with Southwest Airlines Co. (LUV) to develop operational plans for an electric air taxi service utilizing Archer's eVTOL aircraft at airports across California.
The service will employ Archer's battery-powered, four-passenger, tilt-rotor Midnight aircraft, which can perform vertical takeoffs and landings akin to a helicopter. This agreement grants the aircraft access to 14 California airports that are on Southwest Airlines' routes.
Archer promotes its Midnight aircraft as a competitive and eco-friendly transportation solution, aiming to transform urban travel by offering electric air taxi flights lasting 10 to 20 minutes. These flights are intended to replace conventional car commutes that typically last 60 to 90 minutes.
Moreover, Archer will collaborate with Southwest employees and unions, including the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association, to develop an air taxi network throughout California.
