Southwest and Archer to develop Electric Air Taxi networks in California, enhancing urban travel and supporting climate goals.
Southwest Airlines Co. and Archer Aviation Inc. have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop electric air taxi networks. Furthermore, This collaboration will utilize Archer’s eVTOL aircraft at California airports where Southwest operates. Archer Aviation, a leading manufacturer of eVTOL aircraft, will support the initiative.
Paul Cullen, Vice President Real Estate at Southwest Airlines, said, “Southwest is eager to explore the convenience Archer’s air taxis could provide Customers flying Southwest at airports in busy urban areas. We’ve proudly served as California’s largest carrier for nearly 25 years, and integrating Archer’s electric aircraft into the travel journey potentially gives us an innovative opportunity to enhance the experience of flying Southwest. We look forward to collaborating with Archer as we assess future commercial activities in California and other Southwest locations.”
Southwest, California’s largest air carrier, operates at 14 airports statewide. Furthermore, Archer Midnight aircraft aim to transform urban travel by replacing 60-to-90-minute car commutes with 10-to-20-minute electric air taxi flights. Moreover,Archer’s aircraft offer safe, low-noise, cost-competitive transportation with no direct emissions.
Dee Dee Myers, Senior Advisor to Governor Gavin Newsom and Director of the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development, said, “Archer’s collaboration with Southwest to introduce air taxis in California showcases our state’s dedication to climate innovation and advanced technology. This initiative is designed to help revolutionize clean transportation with zero-direct emission and affordable options, enhancing the passenger experience, and supporting California’s climate action goals.”
Southwest and Archer plan to develop a concept of operations for integrated electric air taxi networks. Moreover, This initiative will support California airports and surrounding communities. Additionally, This collaboration includes partnering with Southwest employees and unions, like SWAPA, to maintain efficient operations. Furthermore, This initiative aims to streamline door-to-door passenger journeys, potentially offering Southwest customers a time-saving airport transport service.
Nikhil Goel, Chief Commercial Officer at Archer, said, “With Archer’s Midnight aircraft, passengers will be able to fly above traffic to get to the airport faster. By putting together Southwest’s impressive network of airports in California and their frequent intrastate flights with our planned network, Southwest customers could someday complete door-to-door trips like Santa Monica to Napa in less than three hours.”
Also Read – Elevate MRO opens new Denver MRO Center
Archer and Southwest plan to collaborate over the next few years as eVTOLs take flight. Furthermore, Combining Archer’s aircraft with Southwest flights could enhance the first and last miles of the customer travel journey. Moreover, This improvement aims to enhance the overall travel experience.
Q. – What have Southwest Airlines and Archer Aviation signed?
A. – They signed a memorandum of understanding to develop electric air taxi networks.
Q. – How long has Southwest served as California’s largest carrier?
A. – Nearly 25 years.
