Ethiopian Airlines has teamed up with American company Archer Aviation to introduce electric air taxis in Ethiopia, making it the first initiative of its kind in Africa.
The project aims to set up a fully electric air taxi network, offering a new way to travel short distances quickly and sustainably.
As part of the agreement, Ethiopian Airlines will use Archer’s “Midnight” aircraft, a four-passenger electric vehicle that takes off and lands vertically.
It is designed for fast, short trips with minimal charging time in between.
Archer will also provide pilots, engineers, and technicians to help with the initial rollout and ensure smooth integration into the country’s transport system.
Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, said the partnership is a big step toward improving air mobility and supporting sustainable aviation:
“Our collaboration with Archer Aviation marks an important milestone in bringing advanced air transport solutions to Ethiopia,” he noted.
Beyond offering quick travel in busy cities, the electric aircraft may also be used for ecotourism and other innovative services.
The introduction of electric air taxis could ease traffic in overcrowded urban areas, cut down on pollution, and give people a faster way to move around.
For many African cities facing road congestion and limited transport infrastructure, this new form of air travel offers a practical and eco-friendly solution.
Archer CEO Adam Goldstein said Africa holds great potential for advanced air mobility and that the partnership with Ethiopian Airlines is an exciting step toward expanding electric flight services on the continent.
This project is part of a growing global trend where airlines are working with electric aircraft makers to change how short-distance travel works.
Recently, Archer also partnered with Abu Dhabi Aviation, showing that interest in electric air taxis is spreading worldwide.
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