In a bold step toward transforming urban mobility, Archer Aviation Inc. and United Airlines have unveiled plans to launch a cutting-edge electric air taxi network in New York City as early as late 2025. The project aims to reduce traffic congestion, cut down carbon emissions, and redefine the way people commute in one of the world’s busiest metropolitan areas.
The partnership between Archer and United marks a significant milestone in the advancement of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology. Their joint effort will bring Midnight, Archer’s flagship eVTOL aircraft, to the skies of NYC, connecting key locations such as Manhattan and Newark Liberty International Airport in under 10 minutes an impressive reduction from the typical 60 to 90 minutes by car during peak hours.
Archer’s Midnight aircraft is designed for rapid, sustainable urban air mobility. It carries four passengers plus a pilot, has a range of up to 100 miles, and is optimized for quick, back-to-back trips with minimal charge time. The aircraft runs entirely on electricity, producing zero operational emissions, which aligns with New York City’s climate goals and United Airlines’ broader sustainability commitments.
Michael Leskinen, President of United Airlines Ventures, emphasized the significance of the project: This is not science fiction. Electric air taxis are real, they are safe, and they are coming fast. Together with Archer, we’re turning one of the world’s most congested corridors into a quick, sustainable, and affordable journey.
The initial route between Manhattan and Newark is expected to be the first of many, with a broader urban air mobility network envisioned across the tri-state area. Archer and United are working closely with local officials, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and infrastructure partners to develop vertiports designated takeoff and landing areas to support seamless and scalable service.
Adam Goldstein, Founder and CEO of Archer Aviation, added: New York is the perfect launchpad for our vision. With its dense population, severe traffic challenges, and forward-thinking leadership, we believe NYC will become a model for the future of urban air travel.
The project has received strong interest from city and state transportation authorities, who see it as a game-changer in improving mobility and reducing roadway stress. In addition to the environmental benefits, the service is expected to boost regional economic development, create new jobs, and improve access to major transportation hubs.
Pricing for the air taxi service is still being finalized, but both companies have indicated their goal is to make it affordable and accessible, aiming for a cost similar to premium ride-sharing services.
As the race to commercialize eVTOL technology heats up, the Archer–United collaboration places New York City at the forefront of the global urban air mobility movement. If successful, it could pave the way for similar air taxi networks in Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, and other major urban centers in the coming years.
