This article is based on an official press release from Archer Aviation and additional data regarding the “Leap into the Future” national strategy.

Republic of Serbia Selects Archer Aviation to Launch Air Taxi Network for EXPO 2027

The Republic of Serbia has officially designated Archer Aviation Inc. (NYSE: ACHR) as its preferred partner for the introduction of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft operations. The agreement, aimed at modernizing urban transport in Belgrade, positions the deployment of air taxis as a central component of the upcoming EXPO 2027.

According to the company’s announcement, the Partnerships was formalized to support Serbia’s goal of becoming a regional leader in advanced mobility. The initiative is part of a broader national modernization effort designed to enhance connectivity for the millions of visitors expected during the specialized exposition, which is scheduled to run from May through August 2027.

The collaboration focuses on utilizing Archer’s “Midnight” aircraft to shuttle passengers between key transport hubs, bypassing ground traffic congestion in the capital city. This move aligns with Serbia’s substantial infrastructure Investments and recent regulatory updates intended to facilitate Innovative Air Mobility (IAM).

Partnership Framework and Fleet Potential

The agreement, signed in Davos, Switzerland, outlines a potential purchase of up to 25 Midnight aircraft by the Serbian government. Archer CEO Adam Goldstein and Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić were present for the signing, signaling high-level political support for the project.

Under the terms of the partnership, Archer will work with the government to launch operations in coordination with the opening of EXPO 2027. The operational plan envisions a network connecting Nikola Tesla Airport, the new EXPO site in Surčin, and downtown Belgrade. This network is intended to serve both VIP guests and general visitors attending the global event.

“The Republic of Serbia is seeking to catalyze regional adoption of air taxis to drive technological advancement and job creation in the country.”

, Archer Aviation Press Release

Industrial Cooperation

Beyond the transport logistics, the partnership includes a strategic dialogue regarding industrial manufacturing. According to details released regarding the agreement, the two parties are exploring opportunities to leverage Serbia’s natural resources, specifically rare earth magnets and battery critical minerals, to support the global Supply-Chain for electric aircraft.

The “Midnight” Aircraft Specifications

The Midnight aircraft is Archer’s flagship production model, engineered for rapid, sustainable urban transit. The piloted, four-passenger eVTOL is designed to perform back-to-back flights with minimal downtime.

Key specifications highlighted in the company’s data include:

• Range: Up to 100 miles, though optimized for rapid trips of 20–50 miles.
• Speed: Top speeds of up to 150 mph.
• Charging: Rapid charging capabilities requiring approximately 10–12 minutes between flights.
• Noise Profile: Engineered to be significantly quieter than traditional helicopters, blending into existing urban background noise.

Regulatory and Economic Context

The introduction of air taxis is a pillar of the “Leap into the Future – Serbia EXPO 2027” national strategy. The government has pledged approximately €17.8 billion over several years for infrastructure projects related to the Expo and national development, including a new National Stadium and high-speed rail links.

To prepare for these operations, Serbia has aggressively updated its aviation laws. The Civil Aviation Directorate (CAD) of Serbia updated its Rulebook on air traffic operations in early 2025, introducing the classification of “Innovative Air Mobility” and defining safety standards for vertiports. These Regulations, which align with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) standards, became effective on May 1, 2025, providing a regulatory runway well in advance of the 2027 target launch.

AirPro News Analysis

This agreement represents a significant strategic win for Archer Aviation in the competitive European market. While competitors like Volocopter and Lilium have been active in securing partnerships across France, Italy, and Saudi Arabia, Archer’s securing of a government-backed mandate in Serbia diversifies its international footprint, which already includes planned networks in the UAE, India, and Japan.

Furthermore, the industrial aspect of this deal distinguishes it from a simple fleet purchase. By linking the aircraft acquisition to Serbia’s mining and manufacturing potential, specifically regarding critical battery minerals, the partnership addresses a potential bottleneck in the eVTOL supply chain while supporting Serbia’s economic goal of boosting its GDP by 2027.

Sources

• Archer Aviation Investor Relations