Ethiopian Airlines has announced a groundbreaking partnership with US-based Archer Aviation to introduce electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) technology in Ethiopia. Under Archer’s “Launch Edition” program, the airline will deploy a fleet of Midnight aircraft, marking a significant step towards sustainable air mobility in Africa.
The agreement, signed on March 27, 2025, in Addis Ababa, positions Ethiopian Airlines at the forefront of next-generation air transportation on the continent. The all-electric Midnight aircraft will serve as the foundation for a new air taxi service aimed at reducing urban congestion and promoting efficient, low-emission travel.
Through this collaboration, Ethiopian Airlines will integrate Archer’s pilots, technicians, and booking technology into its operations, ensuring a seamless rollout of the eVTOL service. The initiative will also explore applications in eco-tourism, further enhancing Ethiopia’s reputation as a leading aviation hub in Africa.
The Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority will oversee regulatory aspects of the project, ensuring the safe integration of eVTOL operations within the country’s airspace.
Ethiopian Airlines is the second confirmed partner under Archer’s Launch Edition scheme, following a similar agreement with Abu Dhabi Aviation. This expansion signals growing global interest in eVTOL technology as a viable solution for urban and regional air mobility.
As African aviation continues to evolve, Ethiopian Airlines’ adoption of electric air taxis could set a precedent for other airlines in the region, fostering a shift toward more sustainable and innovative transport solutions.
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