Today, IndiGo and Archer Aviation, backed by Boeing (NYSE:BA) and InterGlobe Enterprises, have solidified their partnership with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at revolutionizing urban mobility in India. The signing ceremony took place at InterGlobe's New Delhi headquarters between Group Managing Director of InterGlobe, Rahul Bhatia, and Chief Commercial Officer of Archer, Nikhil Goel. The partnership targets the launch of an innovative all-electric air taxi service by 2026 that promises to significantly reduce travel times within urban areas.
The venture will use Archer's Midnight Aircraft for the service, a model also backed by United Airlines and Stellantis (NYSE:STLA). The Midnight aircraft, designed for quick consecutive flights with minimal charging time, can accommodate four passengers. This innovation allows passengers to complete the 27-km Delhi trip from Connaught Place to Gurugram in approximately 7 minutes, a significant time reduction compared to the typical 60-90 minute car journey.
The partners plan to finance up to 200 Midnight aircraft for a variety of operations including air taxi, cargo, logistics, medical services, private company and charter services. They are also looking into developing vertiport infrastructure in collaboration with India's Ministry of Civil Aviation and local business partners, with a focus on local manufacturing of eVTOL (Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing) aircraft and training necessary personnel.
Archer’s CEO Adam Goldstein highlighted India as a significant opportunity for eVTOL utilization due to its high population density and severe congestion issues. This partnership underscores the growing importance of sustainable and efficient modes of transport in the future of urban mobility.
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