Soracle Corporation, a joint venture between Japan Airlines and Sumitomo Corporation, has entered into an agreement with Archer Aviation Inc. to accelerate the adoption of advanced air mobility (AAM) in Japan.
The partnership includes plans for Soracle to purchase up to 100 of Archer’s Midnight electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, valued at approximately 500 million USD.
Andrew Cummins, Senior Director of Business Development at Archer said:Japan is widely respected for its forward thinking approach to transportation and this investment into advanced air mobility is yet another example of that. We’re proud to stand with Soracle ahead of this new era of flight—together, we are committed to bringing an innovative, sustainable and convenient transportation alternative to the country.
By acquiring Midnight eVTOL aircraft, Soracle will enable the launch of electric air taxi services in Japan.
Targeted locations include major urban centres like Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, as well as regional hubs such as Hokkaido, Setouchi, and Okinawa.
The network will focus on areas where ground transportation is limited by traffic or geography, creating new mobility solutions for residents and visitors.
Yukihiro Ota, Chief Executive Officer at Soracle said:Through the operation of eVTOL aircraft, Soracle aims to enrich lives and society by creating more accessible air transportation services in Japan. We will provide safe and reliable services to passengers by making the most of the wealth of knowledge we have accumulated at Japan Airlines and Sumitomo Corporation. Today’s announcement is a first step towards making the future we envision a reality.
Archer and Soracle will also collaborate with the Japanese Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) to secure necessary certifications.
What’s more, as part of this partnership, the companies have scheduled a public flight demonstration at the 2025 World Expo.
