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Tracking Notable Moments in Mobility.

We live in an era of unprecedented innovation and transformation in the mobility sector. Movement highlights key developments in the field, drawing on designbivouac’s three decades of expertise in mobility.

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Archer and United to Service New York City

Archer Aviation and United Airlines are collaborating to introduce an electric air taxi network in the New York City area, aiming to transform urban transportation by offering rapid, sustainable connections between Manhattan and major airports.

Archer Aviation and United Airlines are partnering to launch an electric air taxi network in the New York City area, aiming to revolutionize urban mobility. This initiative aims to provide fast, efficient, and environmentally friendly transportation between Manhattan and major regional airports, such as Newark Liberty International and JFK.

Archer’s EVTOL aircraft could provide a flexible overlay for urban area and regional aerial transport.

 

Revolutionizing Urban Commutes

Using Archer’s eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft, the service will significantly reduce travel time, cutting what is often a 60-to 90-minute drive down to an estimated 10-minute flight. By leveraging advanced electric aviation technology, the partnership aims not only to ease congestion on city roads but also to support broader sustainability goals by offering zero-emission transportation options. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in integrating air mobility into everyday urban life.

The partnership plans to deploy Archer's Midnight eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft to connect Manhattan with airports such as JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark, as well as regional airports like Westchester County, Teterboro, and Republic. These flights are expected to significantly reduce travel times, with trips taking approximately 5 to 15 minutes, compared to over an hour by car during peak traffic.

The Midnight Aircraft

Archer's Midnight aircraft is designed to carry four passengers and a pilot, offering a range of up to 100 miles and speeds of up to 150 mph. The aircraft's electric propulsion system aims to provide a quieter, more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional helicopters.

Integration with United Airlines

United Airlines has placed a $1 billion order for Archer's eVTOL aircraft, with an option for an additional $500 million. The air taxi service is designed to be available as an add-on to United's commercial airline tickets, enhancing the overall travel experience by providing seamless transfers between flights and city centers.

The air taxi service is designed to enhance the overall travel experience by providing seamless transfers between flights and city centers.

 

Infrastructure and Future Plans

The initial phase will utilize existing helipads and aviation infrastructure, with plans to develop dedicated vertiports in the future. While the service's launch date in New York City has not been announced, Archer aims to debut its air taxis commercially at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The company is currently working towards obtaining FAA type certification for its aircraft.

A Step Towards Sustainable Urban Mobility

This initiative represents a significant move towards decarbonizing air travel and alleviating ground traffic congestion in densely populated urban areas. By leveraging electric aviation technology, Archer and United Airlines are setting the stage for a new era of efficient and sustainable urban transportation.


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