Saturday, July 13, 2024 Southwest Airlines and Archer Aviation have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to create operational plans for electric air taxi networks, leveraging Archer’s eVTOL aircraft at California airports where Southwest operates. Archer Aviation, a prominent manufacturer of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, is at the forefront of this innovative venture. As California’s largest air carrier, Southwest Airlines serves 14 airports across the state.
The collaboration aims to revolutionize urban travel with Archer’s Midnight aircraft, which is designed to replace lengthy 60-to-90-minute car commutes with efficient 10-to-20-minute electric air taxi flights. Archer’s eVTOL aircraft promises a safe, low-noise, and cost-effective transportation solution, emitting zero direct emissions. Southwest and Archer plan to develop a comprehensive concept of operations for integrating electric air taxi networks, enhancing the connectivity of California airports and benefiting the surrounding communities served by Southwest.
This initiative will involve collaboration with Southwest employees and unions, including the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA), to ensure smooth and efficient operations. This partnership marks a significant step toward potentially offering Southwest customers a time-saving airport transport service, streamlining the door-to-door passenger journey. “Southwest is eager to explore the convenience Arche.
