Archer Aviation Inc., a leading developer of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, has announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Etihad Training to recruit and train pilots for Archer’s Midnight aircraft in Abu Dhabi, with plans to extend operations across the UAE. This MOU was unveiled at the Future Aviation Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking the first time Archer’s Midnight aircraft was showcased in the region.
Nikhil Goel, Archer’s Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized the importance of training pilots to support the establishment of a robust urban air mobility network in the UAE, highlighting Etihad Training as an ideal partner. He noted that this collaboration will involve a careful recruitment process to select and train the initial cohort of pilots to operate the Midnight aircraft for commercial purposes in the area.
Captain Paolo La Cava, CEO of Etihad Training, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating that Etihad currently trains pilots for numerous global airlines and is thrilled to partner with Archer as their first eVTOL collaborator. He mentioned plans to recruit and train the first class of electric air taxi pilots to operate Archer’s Midnight aircraft in Abu Dhabi starting in 2025, with a flight simulator expected to be installed at their facilities later this year.
The partnership involves Archer delivering a Midnight aircraft simulator to Etihad Training’s centre in Abu Dhabi, which will be used for pilot training and to aid in achieving necessary regulatory certifications. Etihad Training will provide local expertise and collaborate with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and other local bodies to develop appropriate training requirements, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of Archer’s eVTOL aircraft in the UAE.
