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The Midnight Air Taxi Will Make Its Middle Eastern Debut in Dubai

The Midnight eVTOL will be on display at the Dubai AirShow 2023 9 photos
Photo: Archer Aviation
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The famous Midnight eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) designed in California will be the star of the upcoming Dubai Airshow's Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Pavilion.
Archer is one of the most successful eVTOL makers so far. It has secured an impressive 100-unit order from one of the most prestigious airlines, it's one of the first to deliver electric air taxis to the US Air Force (USAF), and it's also gearing up for global expansion.

The Midnight aircraft will make its Middle Eastern debut this month at the elite Dubai Airshow from November 12 to 17. It was selected as the featured aircraft at the event's AAM Pavilion and will be on display for prestigious visitors such as the members of the UAE's Royal Family.

Dubai has a special meaning for Midnight's debut because UAE happens to be the Californian company's first international launch partner. Together with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, Archer Aviation plans to kick off commercial air taxi operations in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai as soon as 2026.

In the meantime, the AAM company is focusing on expanding its manufacturing capabilities. With a global manufacturing partner like Stellantis, that won't be hard. In addition to the automotive giant, Archer is also relying on regional partners Falcon Aviation and GAL-AMMROC in response to increasing international demand.

Last month, Archer started building a 350,000 square feet (32,500 square meters) facility at its newly unveiled site in Covington, Georgia. Initially, the new plant will be able to produce 650 units per year starting in 2024. Later on, it will expand its surface and its capacity. The final production plant will unfold over 900,000 square feet (83,600 square meters) and be able to roll out up to 2,000 units per year.

Archer unveiled the commercial version of its electric air taxi, named Midnight, last year. It combines a four-seat configuration with an all-electric propulsion system that ensures a top speed of 150 mph (241 kph) and a 20-mile (32 km) range. Compared to similar eVTOLs, Midnight is innovative when it comes to cabin design. It claims to boast a sustainably built cabin based on natural and recycled materials, from flax fiber to plastic bottles.

Midnight also promises low noise levels, adapted for urban center operations, and low operational costs. It's designed for short urban flights, mainly commutes. A 10-to-20-minute flight aboard Midnight could replace a typical one-hour commute by car, with the added benefit of zero emissions.

In addition to United Airlines paying a $100 million deposit for 100 Midnight aircraft, the Californian company also secured more than $140 million from the Department of Defense, one of the biggest eVTOL investments in the industry. And this is just the beginning.
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About the author: Otilia Drăgan
Otilia Drăgan profile photo

Otilia believes that if it’s eco, green, or groundbreaking, people should know about it (especially if it's got wheels or wings). Working in online media for over five years, she's gained a deeper perspective on how people everywhere can inspire each other.
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