In a bid to transform urban transportation in Japan, California-based Archer Aviation has struck a new agreement with Soracle, a joint venture of Japan Airlines and Sumitomo Corporation.
The venture grants Soracle the right to order up to 100 Midnight aircraft, a deal valued at approximately $500 million. As part of the commitment, Soracle will make pre-delivery payments as production milestones are achieved.
Together, the companies aim to tackle congestion and offer new transit options in major Japanese cities.
A new path for Japanese urban transport
Soracle will introduce Archer’s Midnight eVTOLs (electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft) to cities with particularly high traffic density, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, along with key tourist regions like Hokkaido and Okinawa.
The Midnight aircraft can carry up to four passengers and a pilot, reaching speeds of 150 mph and travelling 20-50 miles per trip—all while being 100 times quieter than helicopters. The goal is to create a fast, efficient, and quieter alternative to ground transportation.
Andrew Cummins, Senior Director of Strategy and Business Development at Archer, emphasised the potential of eVTOL technology in Japan: “We’re focused on markets where we can deploy a significant number of aircraft over time, backed by strong government support and innovative commercial partners. In Tokyo alone, where the journey from Narita Airport to the city centre can take two hours by car, Midnight has the potential to dramatically reduce travel time.”
Archer and Soracle are working in tandem with the Japanese Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) to secure necessary regulatory certifications. A recent signing ceremony in Tokyo marked the formal beginning of this collaboration.
A major public demonstration is set for the 2025 World Expo, where the companies plan to showcase the future of air mobility. Expected to draw over 28 million visitors, the Expo will provide an opportunity to introduce Japanese residents and international guests to Archer’s vision for a sky-based urban transportation network.
