Archer Aviation Inc. announced the Japan Airlines-led consortium, which features Archer’s Midnight Aircraft, was selected by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to participate in phase one of Tokyo’s “eVTOL Implementation Project.”

The first phase of the project will focus on evaluating market potential and establishing the necessary operating framework, paving the way for demonstration flights over Tokyo Bay and nearby river routes—a key milestone toward launching full commercial operations in the near future. This selection highlights the strong collaboration between Archer Aviation, Japan Airlines, and Sumitomo Corporation through their joint venture, Soracle, an eVTOL operating company. Archer and Soracle had previously announced a strategic partnership in November 2024 aimed at introducing air taxi services in Japan, particularly in urban areas where road congestion or geography limits traditional transport options.

As part of the initiative, Archer will collaborate with Japan Airlines, Sumitomo Corporation, and their joint venture Soracle to develop an operational ecosystem in Tokyo, marking an essential step toward scaling up commercial eVTOL operations in the coming years.