Photo by Archer Aviation
Audio By Carbonatix
While everyone is discussing the possibility of air taxis taking off in South Florida soon, New Times is here to bring you back down to earth.
On Wednesday, Archer Aviation announced its plans for a South Florida electric air taxi network that would allow travelers to bypass the horrific traffic congestion and reach “major popular and business centers,” including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and West Palm Beach via ten to 20-minute electric flights. The network would also connect Miami International Airport, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, and Palm Beach International Airport.
Archer also plans to partner with Miami Dolphins owner and billionaire Stephen Ross’ real estate company, Related Ross, to develop a vertiport at its downtown West Palm Beach development, and with Bob Zangrillo’s Dragon Global to build a site at its Magic City innovation District in Little Haiti. The company hopes to use existing helipads at Hard Rock Stadium and Apogee Golf Club in Hobe Sound.
“Miami has never been afraid to bet on the future,” Miami Mayor Francis Suarez said in a press release about the proposed air taxi network. “We’re a city that attracts visionaries, embraces breakthrough technology, and turns bold ideas into real impact. For years, I’ve worked with Archer as they’ve advanced a vision for an air-taxi network that will celebrate Miami’s position as a global capital for innovation and mobility.”
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Despite the enthusiasm and hope that the air network could launch in 2026, the days of readily accessible and low-cost flying taxis are likely years away. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not yet certified Archer’s Midnight electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, AKA, an eVTOL. The piloted aircraft also only carries four passengers at a time. The company says Midnight could replace hour-long car commutes with these flights that are “safe, sustainable, low-noise, and cost-competitive with ground transportation.”
Archer Aviation graphic
Although Archer has not officially announced the prices of these flights, the Wall Street Journal reported that the new service will initially be tailored to corporate executives and South Florida’s growing wealthy population. The publication reported that a one-way trip from Miami to West Palm Beach would cost up to $200.
The California-based company also plans to launch air taxi networks in New York City, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Its first service is slated to launch in Abu Dhabi in 2026.
