Archer Aviation, a California-based electric airplane startup, has announced its ambitious plan to introduce an air taxi service in New York City. This innovative service aims to connect various locations in the city to three major neighboring airports – JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark. The company plans to utilize its four-passenger Midnight electric plane, capable of vertical take-off and landing, to offer quick and convenient transportation for passengers needing to catch flights.
The proposed air taxi rides will be booked as add-ons to regular flight tickets, providing travelers with a seamless and efficient way to reach the airports. Passengers can expect a swift 5 to 15-minute ride from designated locations in Manhattan to the vertiports located at the airports. This approach aims to significantly reduce travel time, offering a convenient alternative to traditional ground transportation.
Archer Aviation intends to utilize existing facilities such as the East 34th Street Heliport, Downtown Skyport, and West 30th Street Heliport as starting points for the air taxi rides. Travelers will have the opportunity to book these rides as part of their travel itinerary, enhancing the overall travel experience and streamlining the journey to the airport.
The Midnight electric VTOL aircraft, powered by six batteries and equipped with 12 rotors, has the capacity to cover distances between 20 and 50 miles on a full charge. With seating for four passengers and a pilot, the aircraft offers a comfortable and eco-friendly mode of transportation for urban air mobility.
While the concept of air taxis in New York City holds great promise, there are still some details to be ironed out before the service can officially launch. Archer Aviation has secured the support of key stakeholders such as United Airlines, the Port Authority of New York, and the NYC Economic Development Corporation. Additionally, the company has obtained the final airworthiness criteria from the FAA, positioning itself as one of the few air taxi companies in the US with this certification.
Despite these achievements, Archer Aviation still awaits the FAA Type certification required for operations and must provide further information on flight frequency, operating hours, and pricing for the New York City routes. The company’s previous proposals for air taxi services in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Chicago demonstrate its commitment to revolutionizing urban transportation.
As Archer Aviation continues to make strides in the development of its air taxi service, travelers can look forward to a future where seamless and efficient air travel within cities becomes a reality. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting transportation initiative.