Korean Air to Purchase Up to 100 Midnight Aircraft in the Exclusive Partnership

Korea has been on the lookout for a ticket into the world of urban air mobility, and it has finally found it through a partnership with Archer Aviation. The deal includes Korean Air’s purchase of up to 100 Midnight eVTOLs, initially serving military purposes as it works towards industry-wide commercialization.

The collaboration is part of Korea’s effort to advance urban air mobility, which was a goal established by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport in 2022.

“Korean Air’s expertise in aerospace and their comprehensive strategic vision for the future make them the ideal partner for Archer,” said Adam Goldstein, founder and CEO of Archer. “We are excited to introduce Midnight alongside them in one of the world’s largest aerospace markets.”

Archer’s Midnight is a piloted, four-passenger eVTOL designed for rapid short-haul trips with quick turnaround times. The aircraft hopes to replace commutes of one hour or longer by car with 10–20-minute flights, offering reduced noise, zero emissions, and cost on par with traditional ground transport. Archer has been running extensive tests with Midnight, completing flights up to 55 miles and reaching altitudes of 10,000 feet. The company even recently displayed the aircraft at the California International Airshow, drawing an audience of nearly 50,000.

This agreement marks one of the most significant international expansions for Archer as it positions Midnight for global markets. For Korean Air, the partnership represents both a commitment to sustainable aviation and an opportunity to spearhead urban air mobility across Asia. Initial deliveries and government operations are expected to begin later this decade.

“This partnership with Archer will accelerate Korea’s leadership in next-generation air mobility,” added Jin Kyu Lim, SVP and Head of Korean Air’s Aerospace Business. “By combining Archer’s industry-leading eVTOL technology with Korean Air’s five decades of aerospace MRO and manufacturing expertise and strong commitment to innovation, we aim to lay the foundation for the next generation of air mobility in the Republic of Korea.”

FMI: www.archer.com