The parent company of IndiGo has teamed up with Archer Aviation to introduce Air Taxis by 2026.

InterGlobe Enterprises, the parent company of IndiGo, has collaborated with Archer Aviation, a leading electric aviation firm from the US, to introduce a cutting-edge all-electric air taxi service in India by 2026.

These innovative air taxis will provide swift transportation from Connaught Place in Delhi to Gurugram, Haryana, completing the journey in just seven minutes, a significant reduction from the usual 90-minute road trip.

Unlike traditional helicopters, these air taxis are electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, renowned for their quieter and safer operation.

Archer Aviation plans to manufacture 200 of its 'Midnight' model aircraft, each capable of carrying four passengers and a pilot. Remarkably, these taxis can be fully charged in just 30-40 minutes, providing one minute of flight time per minute of charging.

What's the cost?

Executives at Archer Aviation estimate that the fare for a seven-minute flight using their five-seater eVTOL aircraft from Connaught Place to Gurugram could range between Rs 2,000 to 3,000.

To put this into perspective, a similar distance covered by a conventional app-based taxi service costs about Rs 500. Although the air taxi service comes at a higher price, it significantly reduces travel time.

What's the plan for certification and commercial operations?

Following successful trials in California, Archer Aviation intends to bring the aircraft to India for demonstration flights next year. The company is currently working closely with the US Federal Aviation Administration to obtain the necessary certifications, expected by next year. Subsequently, they will seek approval from India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation to commence commercial operations by 2026.

Adam Goldstein, CEO of Archer Aviation, highlighted India's potential as the largest market for their air taxis, forming part of a broader strategy to ease urban congestion. Initially, the service will focus on Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.

Goldstein emphasized India's significance, stating, "India will be the biggest market in the world for us. It’s a very important market," underscoring the strategic importance of these metropolitan areas in the implementation of their innovative transportation solution.