Southwest Airlines partners with Archer Aviation for future eVTOL services in California

Archer's Midnight is a piloted, four-passenger aircraft engineered for quick successive flights with minimal charging time between each trip. The Midnight eVTOL has successfully completed its first phase of testing, which included increasingly complex flight maneuvers and data collection missions.

Over the past four to five years, numerous electric air taxi startups have emerged, promising to revolutionize urban commutes within busy metropolitan areas and megacities. Companies such as Horizon Aircraft, Blade Air Mobility, Archer, Wisk Aero, and Joby Aviation have successfully conducted test flights, paving the way for future certifications.

For instance, Lilium Jet aims to achieve dual FAA and EASA certification for its eVTOL aircraft by late 2025. Joby Aviation has already reached the third stage of FAA certification.

In the statement, Senior Advisor to Governor Gavin Newsom and Director of the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development Dee Dee Myers outlined: "Archer's collaboration with Southwest to introduce air taxis in California showcases our state's dedication to climate innovation and advanced technology. This initiative is designed to help revolutionize clean transportation with zero-direct emission and affordable options, enhancing the passenger experience while supporting California's climate action goals."

The aviation industry has pledged to achieve net zero CO2 emissions by 2050. The air taxi could enhance cleaner transportation within cities. While investments from aviation giants like Embraer, Boeing, United Airlines, and Lufthansa have bolstered the eVTOL market’s technological advancements; true urban implementation requires more infrastructure including battery charging stations.