Southwest Airlines and Archer strike a deal for an electric air taxi network
DALLAS - Southwest Airlines became the latest major carrier to join forces with a so-called urban air mobility startup. The Dallas-based airline signed a memorandum of understanding with Archer Aviation to draw up plans for an air taxi service, Andrew J. Hawkins writes for The Verge. Continue reading original article.
The Military & Aerospace Electronics take:
16 July 2024 - Southwest and Archer plan to collaborate on developing a concept of operations for integrated electric air taxi networks to support California airports and surrounding communities served by Southwest. The collaboration will involve working with Southwest employees and unions, including SWAPA, to maintain and enhance operational efficiency. This initiative aims to potentially offer Southwest customers an airport transport service that reduces travel time by streamlining the door-to-door passenger journey.
"Southwest is eager to explore the convenience Archer's air taxis could provide Customers flying Southwest at airports in busy urban areas," said Paul Cullen, Vice President Real Estate at Southwest Airlines. "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."
Related: Archer’s Midnight eVTOL plane aces transition flight with 100+ mph speed
Related: FAA certifies UAM company Archer to operate as a commercial airline
Related: Korea chooses Archer to help commercialize UAM
Jamie Whitney, Senior Editor
Military + Aerospace Electronics
