The Japan Airlines-led consortium, featuring the Archer Midnight aircraft, has been chosen by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to participate in phase one of Tokyo’s eVTOL Implementation Project. This initial phase involves assessing market potential and building the operational framework needed for future services.
The project will enable demonstration flights over Tokyo Bay and along river routes, essential milestones toward launching full commercial eVTOL operations in the coming years. The initiative targets improving urban mobility in one of the world's most densely populated cities.
This selection underscores the solid collaboration between Archer Aviation, Japan Airlines, and Sumitomo Corporation, united under their joint venture, Soracle. The partners aim to introduce advanced air mobility solutions to ease congestion where traditional transportation falls short.
Archer and Soracle announced their strategic alliance in November 2024, focusing on launching air taxi services in Japanese cities challenged by traffic and geographical barriers.
Adam Goldstein, founder and CEO of Archer, said: “We applaud the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s ‘eVTOL Implementation Programme.’”
This collaboration marks a significant step toward introducing eVTOL technology in Tokyo, aiming to transform urban transport through innovative air mobility solutions.