Soracle, a joint venture between Japan Airlines and Sumitomo, has sealed an agreement with Archer Aviation for advanced air mobility (AAM) services in Japan.
The agreement includes the potential purchase of up to $500m worth of Archer’s Midnight electric aircraft.
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This move aims to introduce electric air taxi flights in cities, where ground transportation faces challenges due to traffic or geographic constraints.
Soracle plans to order up to 100 Midnight aircraft, with pre-delivery payments based on specific milestones.
The company intends to develop flight routes in key areas such as Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Hokkaido, Setouchi, and Okinawa.
These routes aim to enhance transportation networks and create new mobility opportunities in the sky for both residents and visitors.
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By GlobalDataArcher and Soracle will collaborate with the Japanese Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) for necessary permissions and certifications.
Discussions between Archer and JCAB have already commenced, with plans to certify the aircraft in Japan.
A signing ceremony was held in Tokyo on 26 September 2024 to formalise this joint agreement.
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.”
As an initial step towards commercialising AAM services, Archer and Soracle plan a public flight demonstration at the World Expo.
This event is expected to attract around 28 million visitors over six months, providing a platform for showcasing the future of aviation and engaging stakeholders.
Archer Business Development senior director Andrew Cummins said: “Japan is widely respected for its forward-thinking approach to transportation and this investment into advanced air mobility is yet another example of that.
“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.”
Archer’s Midnight aircraft offers a sustainable alternative to ground transport, travelling at speeds up to 150mph (241.5kmph).
It is designed for short commutes of 20-50 miles (32-80km) with minimal charge times, operates 100 times quieter than helicopters at cruising altitudes, and features safety systems comparable to commercial airliners.
The piloted aircraft can carry four passengers with luggage.
