Abu Dhabi to launch First Midnight Electric Air Taxi: A game-changer for Urban Mobility

Abu Dhabi, UAE (Urban Transport News): Abu Dhabi is set to make history as the first city in the Middle East to introduce an electric air taxi service, following a landmark partnership with US-based Archer Aviation. The UAE’s commitment to transforming urban mobility has reached new heights with this exciting development, marking a major step toward the future of transportation.

In a recent announcement, Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA) confirmed it has signed a groundbreaking agreement with Archer Aviation to deploy the cutting-edge Midnight electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft later this year. This agreement makes ADA the first global Launch Edition customer for the innovative Midnight model.

The deal, signed by Nader Al Hammadi, chairman of Abu Dhabi Aviation, and Badr Al Olama, director-general of the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), will bring the advanced eVTOL technology to life in the UAE. The Midnight eVTOL is a piloted, four-passenger aircraft designed to revolutionize travel by drastically cutting down traditional 60- to 90-minute car commutes to just 10 to 20 minutes of flight time.

Nader Al Hammadi expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, “We have been following the advancements in eVTOL technology for years, and we are proud to partner with Archer to bring this innovation to the UAE. As the largest helicopter operator in the Middle East, Abu Dhabi Aviation is well-equipped to scale urban air mobility services. We are thrilled to lead the way in launching the region's first electric air taxi service, starting right here in Abu Dhabi.”

The Midnight aircraft, which can carry a pilot and up to four passengers, will operate at altitudes between 500 and 3,000 feet. With trial flights planned to begin by the end of this year, authorities aim for a full-scale launch of air taxi services across all major Emirates by 2026, transforming the way people travel and providing a faster, more sustainable alternative to traditional road transport.

Flight routes will be finalized after approval from aviation authorities, but the project promises to make Abu Dhabi a pioneer in urban air travel. The Midnight eVTOL offers not only a quicker way to navigate the city but also a greener and more efficient option for daily commuters.

With this innovative step, Abu Dhabi is set to revolutionize air travel in the region, offering a sustainable, efficient, and exciting alternative to conventional transport, ushering in a new era of urban mobility.