Ethiopian Airlines to Launch Electric Air Taxis in 2026
Ethiopian Airlines is set to revolutionize African air travel, announcing plans to deploy its first Archer Midnight eVTOL (electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing) aircraft in 2026. This bold move positions the airline as a trailblazer in electric air taxi services across the continent.
The airline has inked an agreement with U.S. manufacturer Archer Aviation for an initial fleet of Midnight aircraft under Archer's "Launch Edition" program, a deal reportedly valued at up to $30 million. This partnership aims to create a cutting-edge air taxi network, with a strong focus on boosting tourism and enhancing "last-mile connectivity" to hard-to-reach destinations like government-run resorts, Lalibela, and the Simien Mountains, where traditional road infrastructure is limited.
Midnight eVTOL: A Glimpse into the Future of Flight
Archer's Midnight aircraft is a piloted, four-passenger eVTOL engineered for rapid, back-to-back flights with minimal charging time. It boasts an impressive cruise speed of approximately 150 mph (241 km/h) and is optimized for short distances, typically between 20 and 50 miles, though it can achieve up to 100 miles. Crucially, the aircraft is designed for a low noise profile and zero direct emissions during flight, aligning perfectly with global sustainable aviation goals.
Comprehensive Support and Strategic Vision
Under the agreement, Archer will provide Ethiopian Airlines with a dedicated team of pilots, technicians, and engineers to support the initial deployment. Archer will also supply essential backend software infrastructure and front-end booking applications to power the urban air mobility operations. Both companies will collaborate closely with the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA) to ensure the efficient and safe integration of the Midnight aircraft.
Ethiopian Airlines joins Abu Dhabi Aviation as the second customer to plan the deployment of Archer's Midnight aircraft under this pioneering program. This strategic investment is a cornerstone of Ethiopian Airlines' ambitious "Vision 2035" plan, underscoring its unwavering commitment to innovation and modern, sustainable solutions for its passengers.
