Published on
October 23, 2025

A significant step toward the commercialization of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) in Asia was announced recently, as a major collaboration was forged between Korean Air and Archer Aviation. An agreement was formally signed by the two companies, establishing a framework for the introduction and operation of Archer’s Midnight eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft within South Korea. This landmark partnership, which was disclosed in Seoul on Monday, is anticipated to accelerate the nation’s push for next-generation air mobility infrastructure.

Fleet Acquisition and Regulatory Commencement

The foundational component of the newly established agreement includes the potential for up to 100 Midnight aircraft to be acquired by Korean Air. These aircraft are slated for deployment across multiple identified use cases within the country. The official signing not only marked a commercial intent but also signaled the commencement of a joint effort between the two industry leaders to navigate the necessary governmental applications and regulatory pathways. This cooperative approach is considered crucial for the seamless integration of eVTOL technology into the national airspace of Korea.

The strategic vision underpinning the partnership is derived from the complementary expertise of the two organizations. The extensive aerospace manufacturing and maintenance experience held by Korean Air is to be leveraged in conjunction with the robust eVTOL development proficiency demonstrated by Archer Aviation. It is understood that this blend of capabilities will establish a solid base for the introduction of new aircraft functionalities across various markets in Korea.

Strategic Endorsement and Leadership Commentary

The transformative potential of the collaboration was underscored by executive commentary following the announcement. The view was expressed by Jin Kyu Lim, senior vice president and head of Korean Air’s aerospace business, that the partnership with Archer Aviation would serve to propel Korea‘s leadership position within the sphere of next-generation air mobility. The focus was thereby placed on the national strategic implications of introducing this advanced transportation technology.

Further endorsement of the strategic alignment was provided by Adam Goldstein, founder and CEO of Archer Aviation. It was noted by Goldstein that Korean Air was considered an ideal partner in the company’s global deployment strategy, due to the airline’s comprehensive strategic vision for the future of aviation. The selection of Korean Air as a key launch partner is thus believed to be integral to Archer Aviation’s efforts to deploy its aircraft on an international scale.

Midnight eVTOL’s Performance Profile

Central to this agreement is the Midnight aircraft, a piloted eVTOL model designed to accommodate four passengers. The operational design of the Midnight is centered on facilitating rapid, repeated flights, with a key focus being placed on minimizing charge time between subsequent trips. This characteristic is particularly vital for urban air mobility operations where high utilization rates are mandatory for commercial viability.

The development of the Midnight aircraft by Archer Aviation has been supported by several recently achieved performance test milestones. These notable accomplishments include a piloted flight that successfully covered a distance of 55 miles and lasted 31 minutes. Furthermore, the aircraft’s capability to operate at higher altitudes was demonstrated by reaching a height of 10,000 feet during testing. Such performance indicators are expected to instill confidence as regulatory approval is pursued in Korea and other markets.

Global Context of Archer Aviation’s Deployments

The partnership with Korean Air is recognized as part of a wider global strategy being executed by Archer Aviation. The eVTOL company was recently selected as an eVTOL partner for the city of Osaka, Japan, a collaboration that also involves Japan Airlines and Sumitomo. The dual focus on Korea and Japan highlights the company’s commitment to establishing a significant footprint in the high-potential East Asian air mobility market.

Concurrently, efforts are being sustained in the domestic United States market. A partnership has been established with United Airlines and Archer Aviation is actively working to join the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) new advanced air mobility (AAM)-focused Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Integration Pilot Program (eIPP). This critical program is designed to facilitate public-private partnerships involving companies like Archer Aviation and state and local governments. The intended outcome of the eIPP is the collaborative development of new regulations specifically for AAM, a necessary precursor for widespread commercial deployment.

The integration of the Midnight fleet into the operations of Korean Air is poised to establish Korea as a frontrunner in the adoption and commercial application of eVTOL technology. The synergy between the manufacturing prowess of Korean Air and the innovative technology provided by Archer Aviation is anticipated to reshape the future of regional travel within Korea.