Tokyo Metropolitan Government Selects Japan Airlines-Led Consortium Featuring Archer’s Midnight eVTOL Aircraft for Phase One of Urban Air Mobility Program
Archer Aviation Inc., a leading innovator in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, announced today that the Japan Airlines-led consortium, featuring Archer’s advanced Midnight eVTOL aircraft, has been selected by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to participate in the first phase of Tokyo’s landmark “eVTOL Implementation Project.” This selection underscores Archer’s growing influence in the Asia-Pacific urban air mobility market and highlights Tokyo’s commitment to exploring innovative transportation solutions for one of the world’s largest metropolitan regions.
Phase one of Tokyo’s eVTOL Implementation Project is a crucial foundational stage focused on market assessment and the development of a robust operating ecosystem for urban air mobility. The initiative is designed to prepare for future demonstration flights over key locations, including Tokyo Bay and several major river routes. These demonstration flights are expected to play a pivotal role in testing operational logistics, safety protocols, and passenger experience, which will pave the way for broader commercial operations in subsequent phases. By carefully orchestrating this staged approach, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government aims to integrate eVTOL technology into the city’s transportation network in a sustainable, safe, and efficient manner.
The selection of the Japan Airlines (JAL)-led consortium reflects the strength of Archer’s existing strategic partnerships in Japan. Through their joint venture eVTOL operating company, Soracle, Archer has already laid the groundwork for collaborative urban air mobility initiatives in the region. This partnership brings together Archer’s cutting-edge aircraft technology, Japan Airlines’ operational expertise, and Sumitomo Corporation’s extensive commercial and infrastructure capabilities. By combining these strengths, the consortium is uniquely positioned to address both the technical and regulatory challenges of launching eVTOL services in densely populated urban environments.
In November 2024, Archer and Soracle formally announced a strategic alliance to jointly develop and launch air taxi operations in Japan. The goal of this collaboration is to offer practical urban air mobility solutions in cities where traditional ground transportation is increasingly constrained by traffic congestion or geographic barriers such as rivers, bridges, and limited road infrastructure. By leveraging Archer’s Midnight eVTOL aircraft, which is specifically designed for quiet, efficient, and safe urban flights, the consortium aims to provide a viable alternative to conventional transport while reducing travel times and environmental impact.
Adam Goldstein, Founder and CEO of Archer Aviation, commented on the announcement:
“We applaud the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s ‘eVTOL Implementation Program.’ The selection of our consortium to be a part of this forward-thinking government initiative gives Archer, together with Japan Airlines, Sumitomo Corporation, and Soracle, an extraordinary opportunity to help turn the promise of urban mobility into a practical, everyday reality for Tokyo residents. As one of the world’s largest and most dynamic cities, Tokyo is the perfect proving ground for eVTOL technology, and we are thrilled to be a part of this historic endeavor.”
Takao Suzuki, Executive Officer and Senior Vice President of Innovation at Japan Airlines, also highlighted the significance of the program:
“Japan Airlines is honored to work alongside the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and our consortium partners on the first phase of the eVTOL Implementation Project. This initiative represents an important step in advancing the future of urban air mobility in Japan, and we look forward to demonstrating the potential of eVTOL technology to enhance transportation options for citizens and visitors alike.”
The announcement builds on Archer’s momentum across the Asia-Pacific region. In October, the company revealed an exclusive agreement with Korean Air, which includes the potential purchase of up to 100 Midnight eVTOL aircraft. This deal not only strengthens Archer’s presence in the region but also reinforces the growing interest in urban air mobility as a viable solution to congested transportation networks across Asia. By forging partnerships with major airlines like Japan Airlines and Korean Air, Archer is positioning itself as a leading provider of eVTOL solutions in key urban markets.
Tokyo’s initiative is particularly notable for its emphasis on public-private collaboration. The Metropolitan Government is working closely with private partners to define operational frameworks, safety standards, and infrastructure requirements necessary for the successful deployment of eVTOL services. This collaborative approach ensures that regulatory considerations, passenger safety, and operational efficiency are thoroughly addressed before commercial operations begin. In addition, the project aims to gather critical data on public perception, noise impact, and environmental benefits, all of which will inform future urban air mobility strategies in Tokyo and potentially other cities across Japan.
The Midnight aircraft, which is central to the consortium’s plans, represents the next generation of eVTOL design. It is engineered to operate quietly, efficiently, and safely in urban environments, with features optimized for short takeoff and landing distances, minimal noise emissions, and low operating costs. These characteristics make it well-suited for densely populated metropolitan areas like Tokyo, where traditional air transport has been limited by noise restrictions and space constraints. Archer’s focus on safety, reliability, and passenger comfort is aligned with the expectations of urban commuters and regulatory authorities alike.
The first phase of the project will also focus on developing the necessary infrastructure to support eVTOL operations, including vertiports, charging stations, and digital traffic management systems. Establishing a well-integrated operating ecosystem is critical to ensuring that urban air mobility services can scale effectively while maintaining safety and efficiency. This infrastructure development will be informed by extensive simulation studies, regulatory compliance reviews, and collaboration with local authorities, urban planners, and aviation experts.
Looking ahead, Archer and its consortium partners aim to expand the scope of urban air mobility services beyond demonstration flights. The long-term vision includes fully operational air taxi networks that connect key urban centers, business districts, and transportation hubs, providing a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional ground-based transportation. By addressing both mobility challenges and sustainability goals, the project has the potential to transform urban transportation in Tokyo and set a benchmark for other cities around the world exploring eVTOL solutions.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s initiative also aligns with broader global trends in urban air mobility. Cities worldwide are exploring eVTOL technologies as part of their efforts to reduce congestion, lower carbon emissions, and provide innovative transportation options for residents. By engaging early with private-sector partners and technology providers, Tokyo is positioning itself as a leader in this emerging field, while also ensuring that regulatory frameworks, safety protocols, and public acceptance are established from the outset.
In summary, the selection of the Japan Airlines-led consortium, featuring Archer’s Midnight eVTOL aircraft, marks a significant milestone in the development of urban air mobility in Tokyo. Through careful planning, collaboration, and innovative technology, the consortium is poised to contribute to a safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly urban transportation network. With demonstration flights, infrastructure development, and strategic partnerships already underway, Tokyo is taking concrete steps toward realizing the potential of eVTOL technology as a transformative component of its future mobility landscape.
Archer Aviation continues to lead the global eVTOL industry by combining innovative aircraft design with strategic partnerships and a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The company’s ongoing efforts in Japan and the Asia-Pacific region highlight the growing acceptance and demand for eVTOL solutions and underscore the critical role these technologies will play in the evolution of urban transportation worldwide.
