Tripartite Agreement At Dubai Airshow Advances EVTOL Air Mobility Initiatives In Saudi Arabia

The Helicopter Company (THC), a Public Investment Fund (PIF) entity and Saudi Arabia's leading commercial helicopter operator, has entered into an agreement with Archer Aviation Inc. and Red Sea Global (RSG). This collaboration was announced at the Dubai Airshow. Archer, a US-based aerospace company, is known for its innovative designs in aviation technology.

Archer's eVTOL aircraft will be tested and potentially integrated into RSG's operations. This marks one of the first deployments of such aircraft in Saudi Arabia. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Captain Arnaud Martinez, CEO of THC; John Pagano, Group CEO of RSG; and Nikhil Goel, CCO of Archer.

The partnership aims to develop and test Archer’s electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft within Saudi Arabia’s mobility ecosystem. Initially, Archer will collaborate with THC and RSG to establish a foundational framework for eVTOL operations in the Kingdom. This includes creating a sandbox environment for real-world test flights using Archer’s Midnight eVTOL.

RSG will spearhead the sandbox testing phase with Archer’s Midnight aircraft. They aim to assess the feasibility of integrating eVTOL aircraft into future operations. RSG's controlled airspace and sustainable infrastructure make it an ideal platform for demonstrating advanced air mobility's potential in supporting regenerative tourism.

Captain Arnaud Martinez expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating: "eVTOL is emerging as the future of urban passenger transportation, and with the right partners, we are glad to be a key part of ensuring that Saudi Arabia is at the forefront of this transformation in aviation. Our partnership demonstrates confidence in emerging technologies, and a shared commitment to shaping a smarter, more connected tomorrow, together."

John Pagano highlighted RSG's dedication to sustainable travel: "At Red Sea Global, we are committed to redefining sustainable travel and setting new standards for innovation within the Kingdom’s tourism and mobility sectors. Partnering with THC and Archer, to explore the integration of eVTOL aircraft into our destinations aligns perfectly with our vision for regenerative tourism, creating cleaner, faster, and more connected ways for guests to experience the beauty of Saudi Arabia."

Future Prospects

Archer Aviation’s founder and CEO, Adam Goldstein, remarked on their strategic goals: "A key part of Archer’s strategy is partnering with the leading operators in each country who share our goals and vision, and both THC and RSG are similarly committed to ensuring that Saudi Arabia is operationally prepared to launch eVTOL aircraft. We look forward to working together to demonstrate how Archer’s Midnight aircraft can transform travel within the Kingdom and set a regional benchmark for the future of aviation."

The collaboration also involves testing advanced aerial technologies while exploring long-term partnerships for large-scale deployment. This initiative supports regional innovation aimed at advancing next-generation aviation systems.

Upon completion of the sandbox programme, all parties will evaluate results to consider further initiatives supporting large-scale introduction of eVTOL services.

With inputs from WAM