InterGlobe's Rahul Bhatia Explores Archer's Electric Air Taxi
20 May 2024
2 Min Read
CW Team
Rahul Bhatia, Group Managing Director of InterGlobe Enterprises, recently visited Archer Aviation to examine their cutting-edge electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, Midnight. This visit marks a significant step toward launching an all-electric air taxi service in India. InterGlobe, known for its airline IndiGo, has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Archer to revolutionise urban transportation in India.
The partnership aims to provide a sustainable, low-noise, and cost-competitive alternative to traditional ground transport. Archer?s Midnight aircraft, designed to carry four passengers, promises rapid, back-to-back flights with minimal charging time. The ambitious project plans to reduce travel time significantly. For instance, the 27-kilometre trip from Connaught Place to Gurugram, which typically takes 60 to 90 minutes by car, could be completed in just seven minutes by air.
InterGlobe and Archer plan to work with local partners to manage operations, build vertiport infrastructure, and train necessary personnel. They also intend to finance the purchase of up to 200 Midnight aircraft for these operations, with a target launch year of 2026. In addition to passenger services, the electric aircraft could be used for cargo, logistics, medical emergencies, and private charter services.
This initiative aligns with India's growing urbanisation and the need for efficient transportation solutions. By introducing eVTOL technology, InterGlobe and Archer aim to address the severe congestion issues in India's major cities and contribute to the country's sustainable transport goal.
Rahul Bhatia, Group Managing Director of InterGlobe Enterprises, recently visited Archer Aviation to examine their cutting-edge electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, Midnight. This visit marks a significant step toward launching an all-electric air taxi service in India. InterGlobe, known for its airline IndiGo, has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Archer to revolutionise urban transportation in India.
The partnership aims to provide a sustainable, low-noise, and cost-competitive alternative to traditional ground transport. Archer?s Midnight aircraft, designed to carry four passengers, promises rapid, back-to-back flights with minimal charging time. The ambitious project plans to reduce travel time significantly. For instance, the 27-kilometre trip from Connaught Place to Gurugram, which typically takes 60 to 90 minutes by car, could be completed in just seven minutes by air.
InterGlobe and Archer plan to work with local partners to manage operations, build vertiport infrastructure, and train necessary personnel. They also intend to finance the purchase of up to 200 Midnight aircraft for these operations, with a target launch year of 2026. In addition to passenger services, the electric aircraft could be used for cargo, logistics, medical emergencies, and private charter services.
This initiative aligns with India's growing urbanisation and the need for efficient transportation solutions. By introducing eVTOL technology, InterGlobe and Archer aim to address the severe congestion issues in India's major cities and contribute to the country's sustainable transport goal.
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