Technology & Innovation
Archer Aviation Partners with Japan for Osaka eVTOL Air Taxi Services
Archer Aviation teams with Soracle in Japan to deploy 100 eVTOL air taxis in Osaka, advancing sustainable urban mobility by 2025.
Archer Aviation has achieved a significant milestone in the global expansion of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft services through a strategic partnership that positions the company as the exclusive U.S. eVTOL manufacturer to establish air taxi operations in Japan’s Osaka Prefecture. The collaboration with Soracle Corporation, a joint venture between Japan Airlines and Sumitomo Corporation, represents a crucial step toward commercializing urban air mobility in one of Asia’s most technologically advanced markets, with agreements valued at approximately $500 million and plans to deploy up to 100 Midnight aircraft across Japanese cities.
This development highlights a growing commitment to sustainable, efficient transportation solutions in urban centers facing increasing congestion and infrastructure constraints. The integration of eVTOL technology, as represented by Archer’s Midnight aircraft, promises not only to address immediate logistical challenges but also to set a precedent for how cities worldwide might embrace next-generation air mobility.
The Osaka project is particularly notable for its scale, financial backing, and the involvement of leading Japanese corporations with deep expertise in aviation and commerce. As the world watches the rollout of these services, the partnership stands as a bellwether for the future of urban air mobility and the role of international collaboration in advancing transportation innovation.
Archer Aviation, established in 2018, has quickly emerged as a leader in the eVTOL sector by focusing on the development of electric aircraft designed for short-distance, high-frequency urban transportation. Their mission is to reduce congestion and carbon emissions in metropolitan areas by leveraging electric propulsion, which allows for vertical takeoff and landing in confined urban spaces with minimal noise and zero direct emissions.
The eVTOL industry as a whole is undergoing rapid transformation, propelled by advancements in battery technology, electric motors, and increasingly sophisticated autonomous flight systems. These aircraft offer the promise of bypassing traditional ground traffic, operating from compact vertiports, and providing a quieter, more sustainable alternative to helicopters and ground vehicles.
Archer’s dual business model, operating its own aerial rideshare services and selling aircraft to third-party operators, has enabled it to secure high-profile partnerships and diversify revenue streams. This approach, combined with strategic alliances such as those with United Airlines and now Soracle, positions Archer at the forefront of the anticipated urban air mobility revolution.
“The eVTOL aircraft sector is valued at approximately $1.35 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $28.6 billion by 2030, representing a compound annual growth rate of 54.9%.” Soracle Corporation is a 50/50 joint venture between Japan Airlines (JAL) and Sumitomo Corporation, two of Japan’s most respected and established companies. JAL brings decades of operational expertise, an extensive domestic and international network, and a reputation for excellence in service and safety. Sumitomo Corporation, meanwhile, has been actively investing in air mobility and unmanned aviation infrastructure since 2018, positioning itself at the forefront of next-generation transportation solutions.
Formally established in June 2024, Soracle is headquartered in Tokyo and led by a joint leadership team from both parent companies. The venture’s mission is to enrich Japanese society by making air mobility more accessible, leveraging eVTOL technology to create new transportation options in urban and regional markets. The partnership builds on years of collaboration, including joint participation in government-led initiatives such as the “Public-Private Committee for Advanced Air Mobility, Air Mobility Revolution and Social Implementation – The Osaka Roundtable.” These efforts have positioned Soracle as a key stakeholder in Japan’s push toward integrating advanced air mobility into its transportation ecosystem, with Expo 2025 Osaka serving as a major milestone for public demonstration and acceptance.
“Japan Airlines and Sumitomo Corporation have been working together since 2020 to realize eVTOL-based mobility services and have invested in air traffic control systems for unmanned aircraft.” Soracle’s selection as the lead operator for Osaka Prefecture’s air taxi services marks a pivotal moment for Japan’s urban mobility ambitions. The agreement grants Soracle exclusive rights to deploy up to 100 Archer Midnight aircraft, valued at approximately $500 million, for air taxi operations across Osaka and potentially other Japanese cities.
Osaka, as one of Japan’s major economic and cultural centers, faces significant transportation challenges stemming from dense urban development and limited ground infrastructure. The introduction of eVTOL services is expected to alleviate congestion, reduce travel times, and provide a sustainable alternative to traditional modes of urban transport. The partnership’s focus on Osaka also leverages the region’s openness to innovation and its role as a showcase for new technologies, particularly in the lead-up to World Expo 2025.
Public engagement is already underway, with the Midnight aircraft scheduled for display at the Expo and plans for public demonstration flights. These initiatives aim to build public trust and familiarity with eVTOL technology, while also providing critical feedback that will inform regulatory and operational strategies. The involvement of Japanese government officials, including the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, signals strong political support for the project and its potential as a national model.
“The Expo provides numerous touchpoints for potential customers and passengers to experience the vision for urban air mobility, directly supporting the event’s theme of ‘Future Society Showcase.’” Archer’s Midnight aircraft is designed specifically for high-frequency, short-haul urban missions. It features a vectored-thrust lift+cruise design with six tiltrotors on a high wing, allowing seamless transition between vertical takeoff/landing and efficient forward flight. The aircraft can accommodate a pilot and four passengers, with a payload capacity exceeding 1,000 pounds and a range of approximately 100 miles at cruise speeds of 150 mph.
Key technical innovations include a composite airframe for lightweight durability, a noise profile as low as 45 decibels during cruise (significantly quieter than Helicopters), and a fully electric propulsion system that eliminates direct emissions. The distributed propulsion system comprises 12 electric engines and six independent lithium-ion battery packs, ensuring redundancy and safety even in the event of a battery failure.
Operational efficiency is further supported by rapid charging capabilities, enabling a 10-minute turnaround between flights and up to 40 flights per day. Advanced Avionics, including the G3000 integrated flight deck and multiple redundant flight control computers, provide robust safety and reliability for commercial operations in urban environments.
“The Midnight is designed to operate at approximately 45 decibels during cruise flight, making it nearly inaudible to people on the ground.” The eVTOL market is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by urbanization, congestion, and increasing demand for sustainable transportation. Market research projects the sector to grow from $1.35 billion in 2023 to $28.6 billion by 2030, with the Asia-Pacific region expected to see the highest compound annual growth rate due to supportive government policies and urban mobility needs. Japan’s commitment to showcasing and integrating eVTOL technology, particularly in the context of Expo 2025 Osaka, positions it as a regional leader in advanced air mobility. The country’s focus on environmental sustainability and efficient urban transport aligns closely with the capabilities of eVTOL aircraft, making it an attractive market for both domestic and international stakeholders.
The global competitive landscape includes major players such as Joby Aviation, Lilium, and Volocopter, all vying for early market share. Archer’s partnership with Soracle and the Osaka project provides a strategic advantage, demonstrating commercial readiness and the ability to scale operations in collaboration with established aviation and business partners.
“Market volume projections indicate the global eVTOL market is expected to grow from 367 units in 2024 to 5,280 units by 2035.” Archer Aviation’s current market capitalization stands at approximately $5.99 billion. The company, like many in the advanced aviation sector, is still in the pre-revenue phase, incurring significant development and certification costs. Recent financial reports indicate a trailing twelve-month loss of $612.8 million, typical for firms investing heavily in R&D and infrastructure ahead of commercial launch.
The $500 million Soracle agreement is a major commercial validation, providing Archer with both near-term cash flow through milestone-based pre-delivery payments and a significant order backlog. This agreement, alongside others with major airlines, demonstrates strong market confidence in Archer’s technology and business model.
Investment in the broader eVTOL sector is robust, with billions of dollars flowing into startups and established firms through SPACs, private equity, and venture capital. This influx of capital is critical for funding the lengthy certification processes and building the manufacturing capacity required for mass deployment.
“Archer’s stock performance has demonstrated significant volatility, with one-year returns of 202.3% compared to 34.6% for the aerospace and defense industry.” Regulatory approval is a key determinant of eVTOL commercial viability. Archer’s Midnight aircraft received a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Special Airworthiness Certificate in August 2023, enabling flight testing and data collection for type certification. This milestone underscores the aircraft’s technical maturity and the company’s progress toward commercial readiness.
Archer and Soracle are actively engaging with the Japanese Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) to secure concurrent type certificate validation, aiming to streamline the approval process for operations in Japan. This collaborative approach is essential for aligning safety standards and operational protocols across jurisdictions.
Archer’s timeline targets commercial operations in 2025 and scaled deployment by 2028, contingent on regulatory approvals and supporting infrastructure development. The evolving regulatory landscape, including new frameworks for eVTOL airworthiness and operations, is shaping the pace and scope of industry growth worldwide. “The certification process involves extensive testing of all aircraft structures, components, and systems to produce data required for FAA type certification.” The Archer-Soracle partnership is emblematic of a broader shift toward international collaboration in advanced air mobility. Japan’s embrace of eVTOL technology, supported by government, industry, and public engagement, is likely to influence adoption strategies in other countries facing similar urban mobility challenges.
The success of the Osaka project could serve as a template for national and regional deployment, driving further investment in supporting infrastructure such as vertiports and air traffic management systems. The planned demonstrations at World Expo 2025 will provide a global showcase for eVTOL technology, potentially accelerating public acceptance and market expansion.
“The demonstration of operational eVTOL services at World Expo 2025 will provide global visibility for the technology and may accelerate international interest in urban air mobility solutions.” The Partnerships between Archer Aviation and Soracle Corporation is a landmark development in the commercialization of eVTOL technology. By combining Archer’s engineering innovation with the operational and market expertise of Japan Airlines and Sumitomo Corporation, the collaboration lays the groundwork for scalable, sustainable air taxi services in Osaka and beyond.
As the eVTOL industry continues to mature, the Osaka project will provide valuable insights into the operational, regulatory, and public acceptance challenges associated with urban air mobility. The outcomes of this initiative are likely to shape the trajectory of eVTOL adoption worldwide, offering a glimpse into the future of urban transportation.
What is an eVTOL aircraft? Who are the partners in the Soracle joint venture? When will air taxi services begin in Osaka? How many Archer Midnight aircraft are planned for deployment in Japan? How quiet is the Archer Midnight aircraft compared to helicopters? Sources: Archer Aviation Newsroom
Archer Aviation Secures Major Japanese Partnership for Air Taxi Services in Osaka Prefecture
Background on Archer Aviation and eVTOL Technology Evolution
The Soracle Partnership: Japan Airlines and Sumitomo Corporation Joint Venture
Osaka Prefecture Air Taxi Services Announcement
Technical Specifications and Capabilities of Midnight Aircraft
Market Context and Industry Growth Dynamics
Financial Analysis and Investment Details
Regulatory Progress and Certification Timeline
Global Context and Future Implications
Conclusion
FAQ
An eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft is a type of flying vehicle that uses electric propulsion to take off, hover, and land vertically, making it suitable for urban environments where space is limited.
Soracle is a 50/50 joint venture between Japan Airlines and Sumitomo Corporation, combining expertise in aviation operations and business development.
Archer and Soracle aim to begin commercial eVTOL operations in Osaka by 2025, subject to regulatory approvals and infrastructure readiness.
The agreement provides for up to 100 Archer Midnight aircraft to be deployed across Japanese cities, with a total value of approximately $500 million.
The Midnight is designed to operate at about 45 decibels during cruise, which is significantly quieter than conventional helicopters and nearly inaudible from the ground.
Photo Credit: Archer Aviation
Technology & Innovation
H55 Completes First EASA Battery Certification Tests in Aviation
H55 successfully passes all EASA-required propulsion battery certification tests, advancing electric aviation safety and production readiness.
This article is based on an official press release from H55.
H55, the Swiss electric aviation company spun off from the Solar Impulse project, announced it has successfully completed the full sequence of propulsion battery module certification tests required by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The milestone, achieved on December 19, 2025, marks a significant step forward for the sector, addressing the critical safety challenge of thermal runaway containment in high-energy lithium-ion batteries.
According to the company, this is the first time in the aviation industry that a propulsion battery module has passed these rigorous, authority-witnessed tests using serial-conforming hardware. The successful campaign clears the path for H55 to submit final test reports to EASA in the first quarter of 2026, with commercial entry-into-service projected for early 2027.
The primary hurdle for certifying electric-aviation has long been the safety of high-energy density batteries. Regulators require proof that if a single cell catches fire (a process known as thermal runaway), the failure will not propagate to neighboring cells or cause a catastrophic explosion. H55 reports that its “Adagio” battery module successfully demonstrated this containment capability under EASA supervision.
Instead of relying on heavy containment boxes, which add prohibitive weight to airframes, H55 utilizes a patented encapsulation technology. This system manages each cell individually, directing released energy and hot gases out of the module through a specific venting path. This approach prevents heat from triggering adjacent cells, effectively neutralizing the risk of propagation.
“Electric aviation has faced a single, unresolved bottleneck: proving to regulators that high-energy propulsion batteries can safely contain worst-case failures. Rather than attempting to contain a thermal runaway by shielding… H55 opts for a different approach, preventing fire propagation at the cell level.”
, André Borschberg, Co-Founder of H55
The tests were conducted on H55’s Adagio battery modules, which utilize commercial 21700 lithium-ion cells, a standard cylindrical format adapted for aviation safety. The company states the modules achieve an energy density of approximately 200 Wh/kg. Crucially, the tests utilized production-grade units rather than experimental prototypes, signaling that H55’s manufacturing lines in Sion, Switzerland, are ready for mass production.
In addition to the physical battery architecture, the system includes a redundant Battery Management System (BMS) capable of monitoring the voltage, temperature, and health of every single cell in real-time. While major eVTOL developers like Joby Aviation and Beta Technologies have made significant progress with flight testing, much of the industry has operated under experimental permits or is currently navigating the earlier stages of certification. H55’s completion of the specific battery module test sequence positions it as a critical supplier for airframers who prefer to integrate certified components rather than developing proprietary battery systems. Furthermore, the move from theoretical safety models to empirical, regulator-witnessed data is expected to assist insurers in transitioning from estimated risk models to actuarial data, potentially lowering premiums for electric fleets.
H55 holds both Design Organization Approval (DOA) and Production Organization Approval (POA) from EASA. The company is currently working with a joint Certification Management Team involving EASA and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Under mutual recognition agreements, the data generated from the EASA tests is intended to support “fast-track” approval for operations in North America.
To demonstrate the technology’s reliability to the North American market, H55 has announced an “Across America” tour for 2025. The company will fly its Bristell B23 Energic, a two-seater electric trainer aircraft equipped with the Adagio system, across the United States to engage with flight schools and operators.
H55 is also establishing a new production facility in Montreal, Canada, to serve customers in the region.
Sources: PR Newswire / H55
H55 Completes Aviation Industry’s First EASA-Required Battery Certification Tests
Solving the Thermal Runaway Challenge
Technical Specifications and Production Readiness
AirPro News analysis
Regulatory Pathway and North American Expansion
Sources
Photo Credit: H55
Technology & Innovation
Horizon Aircraft Selects RAMPF for Cavorite X7 Fuselage Production
Horizon Aircraft chooses RAMPF Composite Solutions to manufacture the fuselage of the Cavorite X7 hybrid-electric eVTOL, targeting prototype assembly in 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from Horizon Aircraft.
Horizon Aircraft (NASDAQ: HOVR) has officially selected RAMPF Composite Solutions to manufacture the fuselage for its full-scale Cavorite X7 hybrid-electric eVTOL. Announced on January 29, 2026, this Partnerships marks a critical transition from design to physical production for the Canadian aerospace company.
The agreement tasks RAMPF with constructing the main body of the aircraft using advanced lightweight carbon fiber and fiberglass materials. According to the company’s statement, this collaboration is a prerequisite for meeting Horizon’s aggressive timeline: assembling the full-scale prototype in 2026 and commencing flight testing in early 2027.
A key factor in this selection appears to be geographic proximity. Both Horizon Aircraft and RAMPF Composite Solutions are based in Ontario, Canada, with RAMPF operating out of Burlington. Horizon CEO Brandon Robinson noted that this localization allows for tighter quality control and real-time engineering collaboration, which are often logistical bottlenecks in aerospace development.
RAMPF Composite Solutions, a subsidiary of the German-based RAMPF Group, specializes in manufacturing complex composite parts for the aerospace and defense sectors. Their scope of work involves creating a fuselage capable of withstanding high-impact forces and harsh environmental conditions while adhering to the strict weight limits required for electric flight.
“We are thrilled to partner with Horizon Aircraft on this revolutionary new aircraft. This opportunity allows us to demonstrate how our high-performance composite materials and Manufacturing processes can push the boundaries of engineering.”
Larry Fitzgerald, CEO of RAMPF Composite Solutions
Brandon Robinson, CEO of Horizon Aircraft, emphasized the importance of RAMPF’s track record in the industry:
“RAMPF’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities are industry-leading, and we are excited to see the fuselage of our Cavorite X7 coming to life.”
Brandon Robinson, CEO of Horizon Aircraft
The Cavorite X7 is designed to operate in the Regional Air Mobility (RAM) market rather than the intra-city air taxi market targeted by many competitors. The aircraft features a seven-seat configuration (one pilot and six passengers) and utilizes a hybrid-electric Propulsion system. This system employs a gasoline engine to generate electricity, which powers the flight fans and recharges the battery pack, effectively mitigating the range anxiety associated with pure electric platforms.
According to Horizon’s official specifications, the aircraft targets a range of approximately 800 kilometers (500 miles) and a top speed of 450 km/h (280 mph). The design utilizes a patented “Fan-in-Wing” system, where vertical lift fans are covered by sliding panels during forward flight, allowing the vehicle to fly efficiently like a traditional fixed-wing airplane.
The move to commission fuselage manufacturing is a significant indicator of technical maturity. In aerospace engineering, committing to hard tooling and physical production of the primary structure, the fuselage, typically signals that the outer mold line (OML) and internal structural architecture are “frozen.”
Furthermore, by securing a partner with defense and aerospace pedigree like RAMPF, Horizon is likely positioning itself to meet the rigorous Certification standards of Transport Canada and the FAA. The choice of a hybrid system also differentiates Horizon in a crowded market; while competitors struggle with battery density limits, the Cavorite X7’s hybrid architecture allows it to utilize existing aviation infrastructure immediately upon entry into service.
This manufacturing announcement follows a recent financial update from Horizon Aircraft on January 14, 2026. The company reported a cash position of over $24 million, which management states is sufficient to fund operations through 2026. Additionally, the company was recently awarded a grant of approximately $10.5 million from the Initiative for Sustainable Aviation Technology (INSAT) to support the development of all-weather flight systems.
With funding secured for the near term and the supply chain for major components now activating, Horizon appears on track to meet its goal of a flying full-scale prototype by early 2027.
Horizon Aircraft Taps RAMPF Composite Solutions for Cavorite X7 Fuselage Manufacturing
Strategic Localization of the Supply Chain
The Cavorite X7: Technical Context
AirPro News Analysis: Maturity of Design
Financial and Operational Outlook
Sources
Photo Credit: Horizon Aircraft
Technology & Innovation
AutoFlight Completes Transition Flight for 5-Ton Matrix eVTOL
AutoFlight’s V5000 Matrix eVTOL completed a full transition flight, marking a milestone for heavy-lift electric aircraft with 10-passenger capacity.
This article summarizes reporting by AeroTime.
AutoFlight has successfully completed a full transition flight with its V5000 “Matrix” aircraft, marking a significant milestone in the development of heavy-lift electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology. According to reporting by AeroTime, the demonstration took place at the company’s test center in Kunshan, China, around February 5, 2026.
The event represents a major technical breakthrough for the sector. While several manufacturers have achieved transition flights with smaller air taxis, the Matrix is reportedly the world’s first 5-ton class eVTOL to perform the complex maneuver. The flight profile involved a vertical takeoff, a transition to wing-borne horizontal flight, and a return to vertical mode for landing.
The transition phase, switching from rotor-supported lift to wing-supported lift, is widely regarded as the most critical aerodynamic challenge for eVTOL aircraft. Successfully executing this phase with a heavy airframe validates the scalability of AutoFlight’s electric-aviation propulsion technology.
According to manufacturer specifications cited in the report, the V5000 “Matrix” is significantly larger than the 4-to-5-seat air taxis currently being developed by Western competitors like Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation. The aircraft features a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of approximately 5,700 kilograms (5.7 tons) and a wingspan of roughly 20 meters.
AutoFlight has designed the Matrix to serve both passenger and cargo-aircraft markets with a focus on regional connectivity rather than just intra-city hops. Key specifications include:
The successful flight of the Matrix distinguishes AutoFlight in a crowded market. While U.S. and European firms are largely focused on the 1.5-to-2-ton class of aircraft intended for urban air mobility, AutoFlight is pursuing a “heavy-lift” strategy.
Industry data indicates that the larger capacity of the Matrix could allow for different economic models. By carrying 10 passengers instead of four, the aircraft may offer a lower cost-per-seat-mile, potentially making regional air travel more accessible. Additionally, the cargo variant targets heavy logistics and offshore supply chains, sectors that smaller eVTOLs cannot efficiently serve.
AutoFlight, founded by Tian Yu, operates R&D centers in Shanghai, Kunshan, and Augsburg, Germany. The company previously secured type Certification from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) for its smaller “CarryAll” cargo drone in 2024. The Shift Toward Regional Mobility
AutoFlight’s achievement with the V5000 Matrix suggests a potential pivot in the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector. Until now, the dominant narrative has focused on “air taxis” replacing cars for short city trips. However, the physics and economics of a 5-ton, 10-passenger aircraft point toward a “regional shuttle” model, replacing buses or trains for inter-city travel.
We observe that by targeting the heavy-lift segment, AutoFlight is effectively creating a new vehicle class that sits between a helicopter and a regional turboprop. If the company can certify this platform, it may bypass the intense competition for urban vertiport space that smaller competitors face, instead utilizing existing regional airports and industrial hubs.
What is a transition flight? How does the Matrix compare to other eVTOLs? When did this flight occur? Sources: AeroTime, AutoFlight
AutoFlight Completes Transition Flight for 5-Ton “Matrix” eVTOL
Breaking the Weight Barrier
Technical Specifications
Strategic Positioning in the AAM Market
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
A transition flight is when an eVTOL aircraft switches from vertical flight (using rotors like a helicopter) to horizontal flight (using wings like an airplane). It is considered the most technically difficult phase of flight.
Most leading competitors, such as Joby or Archer, are building aircraft in the 2-ton class with 4-5 seats. The AutoFlight Matrix is a 5-ton class aircraft designed for 10 passengers or heavy cargo.
The demonstration was reported to have occurred around February 5, 2026.
Photo Credit: Sergio Cecutta – SMG Consulting
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