Southwest Airlines Co. and Archer Aviation Inc. have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop operational plans for electric air taxi networks using Archer’s eVTOL aircraft at California airports where Southwest operates. Archer Aviation, a leading manufacturer of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, aims to transform urban travel with its Archer Midnight aircraft, replacing 60-to-90-minute car commutes with 10-to-20-minute electric air taxi flights. The aircraft offers a safe, low-noise, cost-competitive transportation option with no direct emissions.
Southwest, California’s largest air carrier with operations at 14 airports, and Archer will collaborate on a concept of operations to integrate electric air taxi networks supporting California airports and surrounding communities. This partnership includes working with Southwest employees and unions, such as SWAPA, to maintain and improve efficient operations. The goal is to potentially offer Southwest customers an airport transport service that streamlines the door-to-door passenger journey.
“Southwest is eager to explore the convenience Archer’s air taxis could provide customers flying Southwest at busy urban airports,” said Paul Cullen, Vice President of Real Estate at Southwest Airlines. “Integrating Archer’s electric aircraft into the travel journey offers an innovative opportunity to enhance the Southwest flying experience. We look forward to collaborating with Archer to assess future commercial activities in California and other locations.”
“Archer’s collaboration with Southwest to introduce air taxis in California showcases our state’s dedication to climate innovation and advanced technology,” said Dee Dee Myers, Senior Advisor to Governor Gavin Newsom and Director of the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development. “This initiative aims to revolutionize clean transportation with zero-direct emission and affordable options, enhancing the passenger experience, and supporting California’s climate action goals.”
“With Archer’s Midnight aircraft, passengers can fly above traffic to reach the airport faster,” said Nikhil Goel, Chief Commercial Officer at Archer. “Combining Southwest’s network of California airports and frequent intrastate flights with our planned network could enable door-to-door trips like Santa Monica to Napa in less than three hours.”
Archer and Southwest will collaborate over the next few years as eVTOLs take flight, combining Archer’s aircraft and urban air mobility network with Southwest flights to enhance the first and last miles of the customer travel journey.
