The flight test, conducted with backing from the UAE’s Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC), was observed by senior officials from key UAE entities, including the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), and Archer’s local partner, Abu Dhabi Aviation. A primary objective was to evaluate the Midnight aircraft’s Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) performance under specific local conditions such as high summer temperatures, humidity, and dust. The data gathered is critical for validating the aircraft’s readiness and advancing its certification for commercial service.
This initial flight is the beginning of an expanded testing program in the region, which will collect further performance data to support Archer’s broader commercialization strategy in the UAE and other global markets.
H.E. Badr Al-Olama, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, stated, “This flight marks a significant step towards realizing Abu Dhabi’s ambition to lead the world in advanced urban air mobility. Through the Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) Cluster, we are enabling companies like Archer to test, certify and scale next-generation air mobility solutions.”
Adam Goldstein, Archer’s CEO and Founder, emphasized the importance of real-world testing, saying, “Testing our aircraft in actual operating conditions in the middle of summer provides us with the data we need to progress our commercial and certification efforts both in the UAE and in the U.S.”
The flight testing supports Archer’s “Launch Edition” commercialization program, a strategic partnership with Abu Dhabi Aviation to introduce air taxi services. This initiative solidifies Abu Dhabi’s position as Archer’s first Launch Edition market, establishing the emirate as a global pioneer in bringing urban air mobility to reality and showcasing its commitment to next-generation, sustainable transportation.
