By 2026, InterGlobe & Archer Aviation Plan To Begin An Electric Air Taxi Service In India
InterGlobe Enterprises has partnered with Archer Aviation Inc., an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, to launch an all-electric air taxi service in India by 2026. This collaboration aims to provide a transportation solution.
Rahul Bhatia, Group Managing Director of InterGlobe, and Nikhil Goel, Chief Commercial Officer of Archer, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to explore this transformative venture, contingent on regulatory approvals. He added The partnership envisions an innovative electric air taxi service that offers a quick, environmentally friendly alternative to ground transportation.
The proposed collaboration involves working with local partners in India to operate Archer's Midnight aircraft, establish vertiport infrastructure, and train personnel for seamless operations. Plans also include the acquisition of up to 200 Midnight aircraft, designed for rapid back-to-back flights with minimal charge time, aiming to cover a 27-km distance in just 7 minutes.
Beyond urban air taxi services, the partnership looks to diversify applications for electric aircraft in India, including cargo, logistics, medical and emergency services, and private company and charter services.
Rahul Bhatia expressed InterGlobe's excitement about introducing Archer's electric aircraft to India, emphasising the opportunity to provide an effective, futuristic, and sustainable transport solution. Archer's CEO, Adam Goldstein, highlighted India's potential as a significant market for eVTOL aircraft utilisation, addressing congestion challenges in its largest cities.
The partnership aligns with the country's vision of becoming a $5 trillion economy while addressing the sustainability concerns associated with urbanisation.
This project is positioned as a major step towards influencing the future of transportation in India through innovation and sustainable solutions.
