Flying cars in the UAE? Trial date for electric air taxi revealed

Trial flights of Archer Aviation’s first fully electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, Midnight, are set to begin before the end of 2025, Dr Talib Alhinai, General Manager of Archer Aviation, said.

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Speaking on the sidelines of the “Make it in the Emirates” forum, Alhinai said the aircraft marks a major step toward the country’s urban air mobility goals, with operations expected to begin in Abu Dhabi ahead of a full commercial rollout, a WAM report said.

Archer recently opened a manufacturing facility in Georgia, USA, with an initial annual production capacity of 650 aircraft and plans to scale up to 2,400.

Aircraft ‘Midnight’: How does this air taxi function?

Designed for sustainable urban transport, Midnight can carry four passengers and a pilot, operates entirely on electric power, and takes off and lands vertically like a helicopter.

However, its design and operational profile are optimised for efficient short-distance flights.

Alhinai said initial test flights will take place in unpopulated areas, gradually expanding into urban zones as part of a phased deployment approach. A formal date for the start of commercial service has not been set.

The exact date for commercial operations will be announced in due course, pending the completion of all necessary technical and operational requirements.

Regarding its technical features, Alhinai explained that Midnight is equipped with a fixed wing and 12 electric motors—six at the front and six at the rear. The front motors can rotate between 0 and 90 degrees, allowing for a seamless transition from vertical ascent to horizontal flight in just 45 seconds.

Potential manufacturing in the UAE

On local production, Alhinai said the company has signed a framework agreement with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office to establish a research center and explore manufacturing opportunities in the UAE. Further details will be announced soon.