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ADDIS ABABA, March 27, 2025 — Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier and a Star Alliance member, has entered into a groundbreaking agreement with Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR) to deploy Archer’s electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, Midnight, under Archer’s recently announced “Launch Edition” program. The deal is valued at up to $30 million.
The partnership marks a significant milestone in advancing sustainable aviation on the African continent. The two companies plan to deploy an initial fleet of Midnight aircraft in Ethiopia, establishing the country’s first electric air taxi network. Archer will provide Ethiopian Airlines with a dedicated team of pilots, technicians, and engineers to support the launch phase, along with booking applications and backend software for operations.
“This partnership with Archer Aviation marks an important step in bringing cutting-edge eVTOL technology to Ethiopia,” said Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines. “We are committed to pioneering advanced air mobility solutions that enhance connectivity and drive sustainable aviation in Africa.”
The collaboration also includes exploring broader use cases for Midnight, such as eco-tourism and short-haul regional flights, positioning Ethiopia at the forefront of green aviation innovation in Africa.
Archer CEO Adam Goldstein highlighted the significance of this partnership: “Africa presents an untapped opportunity in advanced air mobility, and I’m proud to be taking this step forward with Ethiopian Airlines.”
The announcement follows Archer’s February 2025 launch of the “Launch Edition” program, which aims to introduce scalable commercialization of eVTOL aircraft in early adopter markets. Ethiopian Airlines becomes the second partner in this program, after Abu Dhabi Aviation.
U.S. Embassy Commercial Attaché Nathan Stickney praised the move, calling it a “win for American innovation and prosperity” and a “leap toward a more connected and sustainable Africa.”
Designed for quick, back-to-back flights with minimal charging time, Archer’s Midnight aircraft can carry four passengers plus a pilot. Flights are expected to reduce typical 60–90-minute car commutes to just 10–20 minutes.
The signing ceremony took place this week in Addis Ababa, with both parties committing to work closely with the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority to ensure the safe and efficient rollout of the project.
About Archer Aviation
Archer is a U.S.-based leader in electric aviation, developing eVTOL aircraft aimed at transforming urban transportation. More at www.archer.com.
About Ethiopian Airlines
A true African success story, Ethiopian Airlines operates over 140 destinations worldwide. The airline is committed to environmental sustainability through investments in modern aircraft, reforestation, and eco-friendly operations. Learn more at www.ethiopianairlines.com.
