Air Taxi Venture Aims to Cut Travel Times in New York

NEW YORK: Aviation startup Archer introduced an air taxi service on Thursday, in collaboration with United Airlines, with the ambitious goal of reducing travel times between New York City and its airports to 15 minutes or less.

To commemorate the announcement, Archer showcased a prototype of its Midnight aircraft in New York City.

The commencement of this service for New Yorkers hinges on approval from the US Federal Aviation Administration, which is responsible for certifying the electric-powered aircraft.

Archer’s Chief Executive, Adam Goldstein, commented on New York’s traffic congestion, stating, “I don’t believe anyone looks forward to spending 90 minutes in a car to cover a mere 15 miles.”

He described the aircraft as a “time-saving tool,” capable of transporting passengers “from Manhattan to the airports in approximately five to ten minutes, as opposed to the typical 90-minute drive.”

However, Archer must overcome several obstacles to make this concept a reality.

While awaiting FAA certification, the company is also seeking approvals in the United Arab Emirates, where it intends to launch its service commercially in the last quarter of 2025.

The Midnight, equipped with a dozen engines and propellers, can accommodate a pilot, up to four passengers, and their luggage.

Goldstein envisions making these flights more accessible in the future, moving away from the current perception of helicopter rides as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

He anticipates a phased rollout, beginning with a limited number of operational aircraft in 2025 and 2026, with expansion planned later in the decade. The company has recently finished constructing a manufacturing facility in Georgia.

Goldstein suggested that helicopters could gain widespread adoption if they “were significantly more affordable and maintained very high safety standards.”

Earlier in the month, a New York tour helicopter experienced a malfunction and crashed into the Hudson River, resulting in the deaths of the pilot and five family members on board.

Goldstein expresses optimism that advancements in artificial intelligence and other advanced software can facilitate the safe expansion of urban air taxi transport.