Archer Aviation (Archer) and Southwest Airlines (Southwest) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop operational plans for electric air taxi networks utilising Archer’s eVTOL aircraft at California airports where Southwest operates. Archer Aviation is a manufacturer of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Southwest is the Golden State’s largest air carrier, operating at 14 airports across the state. The Archer Midnight aircraft is designed to transform urban travel, replacing 60-to-90-minute car commutes with estimated 10-to-20-minute electric air taxi flights. The goal of Archer’s aircraft is to offer a safe, low-noise, cost-competitive transportation option with no direct emissions.
The two companies intend to collaborate on a concept of operations that lays the foundation for integrated electric air taxi networks to support California airports and the surrounding communities that Southwest serves. This collaboration will include partnering with Southwest employees and respective unions, including SWAPA, to maintain and improve efficient operations. This is a key step toward potentially offering Southwest customers an airport transport service that saves time by streamlining the door-to-door passenger journey.
“Southwest is eager to explore the convenience Archer’s air taxis could provide customers flying Southwest at airports in busy urban areas,” said Paul Cullen, Vice President of Real Estate at Southwest Airlines. “We’ve proudly served as California’s largest carrier for nearly 25 years, and integrating Archer’s electric aircraft into the travel journey potentially gives us an innovative opportunity to enhance the experience of flying Southwest. We look forward to collaborating with Archer as we assess future commercial activities in California and other Southwest locations.”
“Archer’s collaboration with Southwest to introduce air taxis in California showcases our state’s dedication to climate innovation and advanced technology,” said Dee Dee Myers, Senior Advisor to Governor Gavin Newsom and Director of the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development. “This initiative is designed to help revolutionise clean transportation with zero-direct emission and affordable options, enhancing the passenger experience, and supporting California’s climate action goals.”
The companies plan to collaborate over the next few years as eVTOLs take flight. Combining Archer’s aircraft and planned urban air mobility network with Southwest flights could offer an enhanced experience for the first and last miles of the customer travel journey.
