Energy Efficiency, GHG Emissions, Industrial  -  July 12, 2024

Southwest Airlines Signs Agreement for Electric Aircraft

Southwest Airlines Co. signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop operational plans for electric air taxi networks.

The agreement was signed with Archer Aviation Inc. and will utilize Archer’s eVTOL aircraft at California airports where Southwest® operates. 

Archer Aviation is a manufacturer of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The goal of Archer’s aircraft is to offer a safe, low-noise, cost-competitive transportation option with no direct emissions.

Southwest is California's largest air carrier and operates at 14 airports across the state. Archer Midnight aircraft is designed to transform urban travel, replacing 60-to-90-minute commutes by car with estimated 10-to-20-minute electric air taxi flights. 

Southwest and Archer intend to collaborate on a concept of operations that lays the foundation for integrated electric air taxi networks that would support California airports and the surrounding communities that Southwest serves. 

“Southwest is eager to explore the convenience Archer’s air taxis could provide Customers flying Southwest at airports in busy urban areas,” said Paul Cullen, Vice President Real Estate at Southwest Airlines, in a statement. “We’ve proudly served as California’s largest carrier for nearly 25 years, and integrating Archer’s electric aircraft into the travel journey potentially gives us an innovative opportunity to enhance the experience of flying Southwest. We look forward to collaborating with Archer as we assess future commercial activities in California and other Southwest locations.”

Archer and Southwest plan to collaborate over the next few years as eVTOLs take flight. 

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