U.S.-based Archer Aviation is set to begin test flights for its Midnight aircraft in the UAE this summer, as the company prepares to launch flying taxi services in the region. The tests will focus on evaluating the aircraft’s performance under extreme heat conditions, CEO Adam Goldstein confirmed.
Heat Endurance Testing & Initial Flights
Goldstein stated that the company will deliver its first Midnight aircraft to Abu Dhabi during the summer and begin high-temperature flight testing. The UAE’s climate, where temperatures can soar above 110°F (43°C), presents a unique challenge, but the aircraft is equipped with a Honeywell climate control system to maintain a comfortable cabin temperature.
“Following the heat testing, we will conduct test flights across UAE cities, performing survey flights with limited passengers as we prepare for a full commercial launch,” Goldstein said during a recent earnings call.
Launch Edition & Abu Dhabi Partnership
Last week, Archer announced its ‘Launch Edition’ commercialization program for the Midnight aircraft, designating Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA) as its first customer in the UAE. The partnership will see ADA deploy an initial fleet of Midnight flying taxis, with a focus on operations in Abu Dhabi.
Archer and ADA will collaborate on pilot training, flight operations, and community engagement to facilitate the integration of urban air mobility in the region. The four-passenger, piloted aircraft is expected to cut travel times dramatically, reducing 60-90 minute car commutes to just 10-30 minutes.
Regulatory Progress & Global Expansion
Archer is working closely with the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to fast-track certification and regulatory approvals for Midnight’s operation.
“Our progress in the UAE has sparked interest from other regions, including the Middle East, Asia, and Africa,” Goldstein revealed. “Several countries are in discussions with us about early commercial operations, creating global expansion opportunities before our full U.S. certification.”
He also announced that Archer has finalized its project-specific certification plan with the GCAA and has already begun submitting compliance data for review.
Utilizing Existing Infrastructure
To expedite the deployment of flying taxis, Archer plans to leverage existing infrastructure, such as helicopter landing sites. The company intends to establish a network of five vertiports in Abu Dhabi, utilizing current transportation hubs to minimize costs and accelerate operations.
Archer’s partner, Falcon Aviation, already manages helipads at key locations, including Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal, Yas Links, and Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai.
“Our partners, Abu Dhabi Aviation and Falcon Aviation, are helping us convert existing locations into vertiports. The UAE is taking significant steps to rapidly integrate air mobility solutions,” Goldstein said.
Production & Future Plans
In 2024, Archer aims to produce up to 10 Midnight aircraft, with three units dedicated to intensive flight testing and the remainder designated for early commercial deployment.
With UAE test flights set to begin this summer, the countdown has begun for the future of flying taxis in the region.
