Korean Air and U.S.-based Archer Aviation have signed an agreement to introduce and commercialize Archer’s Midnight electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in South Korea. The collaboration will initially focus on government applications, with plans for Korean Air to purchase up to 100 Midnight aircraft as part of the rollout.
The partnership combines Archer’s next-generation eVTOL technology with Korean Air’s decades of expertise in aircraft operations and maintenance. Together, the two companies aim to accelerate the adoption of advanced air mobility solutions in South Korea, positioning the country as a regional leader in the emerging urban air mobility (UAM) sector. The collaboration will also lay the groundwork for expanding eVTOL operations across various end markets and applications in the future.
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“Korean Air’s expertise in aerospace and their comprehensive strategic vision for the future make them the ideal partner for Archer,” said Adam Goldstein, founder and CEO of Archer Aviation. “We are excited to introduce Midnight alongside them in one of the world’s largest aerospace markets.” Jin Kyu Lim, Senior Vice President and Head of Korean Air’s Aerospace Business, added: “By combining Archer’s industry-leading eVTOL technology with Korean Air’s five decades of aerospace MRO and manufacturing expertise, we aim to lay the foundation for the next generation of air mobility in the Republic of Korea.”
Archer has been advancing flight testing of its Midnight aircraft, recently completing a series of performance trials, including a 55-mile flight in 31 minutes at an altitude of 10,000 feet. The company also showcased Midnight to more than 50,000 spectators at the California International Airshow.
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Designed to carry four passengers plus a pilot, Midnight is capable of short, frequent trips with minimal recharging time, offering a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional urban commutes that can cut 60–90-minute car journeys down to just 10–20 minutes.
