Archer Aviation said Wednesday that United Airlines paid a $10 million upfront payment for 100 electric flying taxis. The move is the latest in a series of steps for commercial airlines to invest in new hybrid aviation technology.
California-based Archer Aviation is one of several companies seeking to manufacture and license
*) electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft for commercial flight . The eVTOL is a hybrid that can take off and land like a helicopter and is intended for short trips across cities.
As a new technology, eVTOLs like Archer’s development require approval from federal regulators to begin commercial service and allow companies like United to formally purchase the aircraft. Archer said in a press release that it recently completed a preliminary design review process and is now advancing to the next stage of development. The FAA said recent regulatory shifts in the eVTOL certification process shouldn’t prevent companies from getting certified before the end of 2024.
United previously announced plans to buy up to 200 flying taxis from Archer in a $1 billion deal. United isn’t the only commercial airline investing in eVTOL travel. Last year, American Airlines said it planned to invest $25 million in UK-based eVTOL startup Vertical Aerospace Group.
United Airlines Ventures President Michael Leskinen spoke about pre-delivery payments in a statement, emphasizing the potential of eVTOLs to reduce carbon emissions for the company while bringing convenience to customers.
“We believe eVTOL has the potential to help achieve carbon neutral travel and serve as an innovative new tool to change the way United customers experience comfort, convenience and efficiency during their commutes in cities around the world,” “He says.
The Wall Street Journal reported the news earlier.
