Archer Aviation has announced that the Japan Airlines-led consortium, featuring the Archer Midnight aircraft, has been selected by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to take part in phase one of Tokyo’s “eVTOL Implementation Project.”
This first phase will evaluate market potential and develop the necessary operational ecosystem. It will pave the way for planned demonstration flights over Tokyo Bay and along river routes — crucial steps towards launching full commercial operations in the years ahead.
The selection highlights the strength of Archer’s partnerships with Japan Airlines and Sumitomo Corporation, developed through their joint venture, Soracle. Together, these partners aim to bring advanced air mobility to one of the world’s most congested urban environments.
Archer and Soracle first announced their strategic alliance in November 2024, with the goal of launching air taxi services in Japan. Their focus is on cities where traffic congestion or geography limits traditional transport options.
Adam Goldstein, founder and CEO of Archer, welcomed the decision, saying: “We applaud the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s ‘eVTOL Implementation Programme.’ The selection of our consortium to be a part of this innovative government approach gives Archer, together with JAL, Sumitomo Corporation and Soracle, a critical opportunity to help make the promise of urban mobility an everyday reality in Tokyo, the world’s largest city.”
