Archer signs deal with Japan Airlines joint venture, including up to 100 air taxis
Archer Aviation and Soracle, a new joint venture by Japan Airlines and Sumitomo Corporation, signed agreements focused on bringing AAM services to Japan.
Soracle plans to launch its AAM operation in Japan using Archer’s Midnight aircraft. The venture has obtained the right to place aircraft orders of up to 100 Midnight aircraft, totalling about $500m. Archer said the orders, once made, would include pre-delivery payments based on certain milestones in advance of delivery.
“Japan is widely respected for its forward thinking approach to transportation and this investment into advanced air mobility is yet another example of that,” said Andrew Cummins, senior director of Business Development at Archer. “We’re proud to stand with Soracle ahead of this new era of flight—together, we are committed to bringing an innovative, sustainable and convenient transportation alternative to the country.”
Soracle could potentially launch air taxi routes in places like Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Hokkaido, Setouchi and Okinawa.
Archer and Soracle will work closely with the Japanese Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) to obtain the necessary permissions and certifications. Archer and JCAB have already begun discussions and Archer to attain certification of its aircraft in Japan. This would likely be through the existing bilateral agreement between the FAA and JCAB.
Soracle CEO Yukihiro Ota said: “Through the operation of eVTOL aircraft, Soracle aims to enrich lives and society by creating more accessible air transportation services in Japan. We will provide safe and reliable services to passengers by making the most of the wealth of knowledge we have accumulated at Japan Airlines and Sumitomo Corporation. Today’s announcement is a first step towards making the future we envision a reality.”
Archer and Soracle plan to conduct a public flight demonstration at the 2025 World Expo in Osaka. The Expo is anticipated to be one of the most significant global events of the year, expecting around 28m visitors from Japan, the US and other countries over its six-months duration.
