Archer and Signature Aviation signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to build the necessary infrastructure for air taxi services at United Airlines hubs that the manufacturer aims to promote. If timelines are met, services should begin by the end of next year.
The MoU will drive the electrification of Signature’s terminals, giving Archer access to takeoff and landing sites in metropolitan areas across the U.S. Signature is a fixed-base operator (FBO) that operates a network of private aviation bases at more than 200 locations in 27 countries. Together with Archer, they will install combined charging systems (CCS) manufactured by BETA in its network of over 200 terminals.
These systems can charge electric aircraft, cars, tugs, buses, and other airport vehicles. The system has already been installed at more than 20 airports, with around 50 more being deployed. The launch of the cooperation between Signature and Archer will take place at Newark (EWR) and Chicago O’Hare (ORD) airports.
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Bryan Bernhard, Director of Growth and Infrastructure at Archer, stated that they are «excited to join forces with Signature Aviation to advance the implementation of the necessary infrastructure for the future of urban air mobility. Electrifying key assets brings us closer to sustainable and efficient air travel.» Meanwhile, Derek DeCross, Chief Commercial Officer at Signature Aviation, added: «we are committed to shaping the future of aviation through sustainability, so we are thrilled to work with Archer.»
The companies plan to electrify launch locations by 2025, with further expansion planned across the entire Signature network gradually. Archer aims to transform urban travel by replacing 60-90 minute car journeys with 10-20 minute electric air taxi flights. The e-VTOL Midnight, designed and built by Archer, will be used for quick flights with minimal charging time.
