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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tokyo Taps Archer, Japan Airlines Consortium for eVTOL Air Taxi Program

Tokyo, Japan – The Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG) has selected a consortium led by Japan Airlines (JAL) and featuring Archer Aviation’s Midnight electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for the initial phase of its groundbreaking eVTOL Implementation Programme.

This first phase will focus on assessing the market potential and building the necessary operational ecosystem for air taxi services in the city. Key activities will include planned demonstration flights over Tokyo Bay and along river routes, paving the way for the rollout of commercial air taxi operations in the coming years.

The selection underscores the strong partnership between Archer, JAL, and Sumitomo Corporation, forged through their joint venture eVTOL operating company, Soracle. Archer and Soracle announced a strategic alliance in November 2024 to jointly launch air taxi operations in Japan, targeting cities where ground transportation is hampered by traffic congestion or geographical obstacles.

“We applaud the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s eVTOL Implementation Programme,” said Adam Goldstein, Archer’s founder and CEO. “The selection of our consortium provides Archer, together with JAL, Sumitomo Corporation, and Soracle, with a vital opportunity to contribute to making urban air mobility a reality in Tokyo, the world’s largest city.”

This announcement builds upon Archer’s expanding presence in the Asia-Pacific region. In October, Archer secured an exclusive deal with Korean Air, potentially involving the purchase of up to 100 Midnight aircraft. The collaboration aims to establish eVTOL services in areas experiencing transportation challenges.

The TMG’s eVTOL Implementation Programme signals a significant step toward embracing innovative transportation solutions to address urban mobility challenges and integrate air taxis into the city’s infrastructure.

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