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Archer Aviation Inc. (NYSE: ACHR), a leader in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, has signed an agreement with PT. IKN, an Indonesian company focused on innovation and national resilience.
This partnership marks Indonesia as the third country selected for Archer’s “Launch Edition” program, which aims to deploy its cutting-edge Midnight aircraft.
Alongside planned deployments in the UAE with Abu Dhabi Aviation and Ethiopia with Ethiopian Airlines, this initiative positions Indonesia as a key early adopter of advanced air mobility.
Introduction of eVTOL Midnight to Indonesia
PT. IKN is dedicated to advancing Indonesia’s strategic industries, including advanced manufacturing, infrastructure, and sustainable technologies.
By collaborating with government and industry partners, PT. IKN strengthens local capabilities and supports long-term national development.
The agreement with Archer aligns with these goals, introducing innovative eVTOL technology to enhance mobility and sustainability across Indonesia’s vast archipelago.
The “Launch Edition” program is designed to create a practical and repeatable model for commercializing Midnight aircraft in global markets before achieving type certification in the U.S.
In Indonesia, the program will focus on establishing local operational capabilities and launching commercial air taxi services as quickly as possible.
The partnership will also explore diverse applications, such as logistics and environmental surveillance, particularly to support the development of Indonesia’s new capital city, Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN).
Initial Aircraft Deployment
Under the agreement, Archer will deploy an initial fleet of Midnight Launch Edition aircraft to Indonesia, supported by a team of pilots, technicians, and engineers. Archer will also provide operational software and user-friendly booking applications to streamline services.
To ensure a smooth rollout, Archer and PT. IKN will work closely with Indonesia’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to develop regulatory frameworks and enhance infrastructure.
The partnership includes plans for PT. IKN to order up to 50 Midnight aircraft, valued at approximately $250 million, with the aim of scaling operations after establishing early services.
Yudiansah Yosal, Chairman of PT. IKN, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. “At PT. IKN, we see tremendous potential in bringing innovative technologies to Indonesia,” he said.
“Our vision is to use Archer’s Midnight aircraft not only for passenger transport across our islands but also for environmental monitoring. We’re excited to partner with Archer to build a sustainable air mobility ecosystem.”
Major General TNI Piek Budyakto, Pangdam IX/Udayana, highlighted the broader impact of eVTOL technology. “Aircraft like Archer’s Midnight offer versatile capabilities for both civilian and military applications,” he noted.
“In civilian use, they can support transportation, rescue operations, and goods delivery. For military purposes, they enable medical evacuations, supply deliveries, and special operations in remote areas. This partnership aligns with our goal of modernizing infrastructure through innovative solutions.”
Indonesia’s Potential for eVTOL Aircraft
Archer’s Founder and CEO, Adam Goldstein, emphasized Indonesia’s unique potential. “The demand for our ‘Launch Edition’ program continues to grow,” he said.
“With thousands of islands, a thriving tourism sector, and the development of Ibu Kota Nusantara, Indonesia is an ideal market for Midnight aircraft. We’re eager to demonstrate how our technology can transform mobility in the region.”
