On the penultimate day of the Dubai Airshow 2023, Air Chateau and Archer signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for a total of 100 units of the eVTOL from the Californian company. The finalization of the definitive agreements by the companies will occur in the coming months, with funding for the operation provided by Acorn Capital, an investment group.
This MoU encompasses the purchase by Air Chateau of up to 100 eVTOL Midnight, developed and manufactured by Archer. The operation amounts to five hundred million dollars, including an upfront payment of one million. Air Chateau, the first private heliport operator in the United Arab Emirates, is based at Dubai’s Al Maktoum International Airport. From there, they intend to operate their Midnights in Dubai and the surrounding areas. The company’s operations focus on providing last-mile services to VIPs, connecting airports, cities, and strategic points.
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The collaboration with Air Chateau aims to strengthen Archer’s plans for air taxi operations in Abu Dhabi and Dubai by 2026. Both parties are exploring opportunities to facilitate investment in infrastructure, ensuring that these cities are ready for operations.
Adam Goldstein, founder and CEO of Archer, stated, «It was an honor to receive the Air Chateau team. Their analysis determined that our Midnight model meets the demands of their clients in the United Arab Emirates. Today’s agreement reinforces our efforts to launch an aircraft that will revolutionize urban mobility.» Samir Mohamed, president and founder of Air Chateau, added, «Our company continues to evolve. Today we stand on the brink of realizing our vision for the future of urban air mobility.»
Archer also expressed its intention to establish a center of excellence in engineering in the Emirates. This will aim to support the growing air mobility industry in the region. The company’s plan is to collaborate with local businesses for the production of their eVTOL, contributing to the industry’s expansion in Abu Dhabi.
