Ethiopian Airlines and Archer Aviation are teaming up to lay the groundwork for an electric air taxi network in Africa using the latter’s four-passenger Midnight eVTOL aircraft.

As a partner in Archer’s “Launch Edition” commercialization program, Ethiopian will receive “an initial fleet” of Midnight aircraft, but the partners have not specified the number of aircraft to be delivered or the delivery schedule. Announcing the collaboration on March 27, Archer noted the deal is worth up to $30 million.

Ethiopian Airlines is the second air carrier to join Archer’s Launch Edition program. Abu Dhabi Aviation, which became the first Launch Edition customer in February, expects to begin flying passengers on its Midnight aircraft this year.

Archer has said the Launch Edition program will allow it to generate early revenue and gain operational experience abroad before it achieves FAA type certification. The California-based eVTOL manufacturer has indicated that it might reach that milestone before the end of 2025. However, with the FAA’s budget and staff being reduced by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, the timeline for certifying any eVTOL aircraft is now uncertain. The FAA finalized the airworthiness criteria for the Midnight aircraft in May 2024.

Under the Launch Edition program, Archer will provide its customers with the eVTOL pilots, technicians, and engineers needed to operate and maintain their initial fleets. Those customers will also receive the software Archer has developed for a backend operating system with a booking app for on-demand urban air taxi services. 

In addition to commercial air taxi services, Ethiopian and Archer are looking into alternative use cases for the Midnight aircraft in the region, including scenic flights for tourists.

“We are committed to pioneering advanced air mobility solutions that enhance connectivity and drive sustainable aviation in Africa,” said Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew. “Our partnership with Archer Aviation marks an important step in bringing cutting-edge eVTOL technology to Ethiopia. Together, we aim to redefine regional travel and create new opportunities for efficient, eco-friendly transportation.”