Archer Aviation, an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft maker, and United Airlines have unveiled plans for their first air taxi route in Chicago.
The duo finalised O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Vertiport Chicago as the next point-to-point route as part of their urban air mobility (UAM) network development.
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Located in the Illinois Medical District, Vertiport Chicago is claimed to be the largest vertical aircraft take-off and landing facility in North America, while United’s largest operations hub, ORD is expected to serve as a suitable location for United and Archer to advance their UAM operations.
Archer Aviation founder and CEO Adam Goldstein said: “We’re thrilled to add Chicago to our growing list of initial launch cities as we continue to solidify our UAM network plans.
“We’re looking forward to working with state and city leaders to bring an innovative transportation solution to the City of Chicago and its surrounding communities.”
The finalisation marks an important step for United and Archer, as they are working with various organisations to ensure that a proper infrastructure is in place around the Chicago Metropolitan Area to support eVTOL aircraft operations integration into the City’s transportation ecosystem.
Through their UAM network, Archer and United aim to offer people in Chicago Metropolitan Area a ‘cost-competitive’ and green alternative to ground transport by 2025.
United Airlines Ventures president Michael Leskinen said: “Both Archer and United are committed to decarbonising air travel and leveraging innovative technologies to deliver on the promise of the electrification of the aviation industry.
“Once operational, we’re excited to offer our customers a more sustainable, convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation during their commutes to the airport.”
