Archer Aviation has announced it and United Airlines aim to make O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to Vertiport Chicago the city's first "point to point route" for Archer’s electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
"We’re thrilled to add Chicago to our growing list of initial launch cities as we continue to solidify our UAM network plans,” said Adam Goldstein, Archer’s founder and chief executive.
The electric air taxi route, which the partners hope to open in 2025, would allow passengers flying from O'Hare to commute from downtown Chicago in 10 minutes, cutting up to 50 minutes off the usual journey time.
Archer said the arrangement was an "important step forward" as it works with United and the City of Chicago, Chicago Department of Aviation, World Business Chicago, the State of Illinois, ComEd, and Vertiport Chicago "to ensure the appropriate infrastructure is in place around the Chicago Metropolitan Area to support the safe integrating of eVTOL aircraft operations into the City’s transportation ecosystem in 2025".
"Technological innovation thrives here in Chicago, and this venture between Archer and United is yet another example of this strength," said Chicago mayor Lori Lightfoot.
The Chicago vertiport is to be North America's biggest, Archer said, and will offer "unparalleled convenience, access and service", Archer said.
"Vertiport Chicago is delighted to participate alongside United Airlines and Archer in revolutionising intra-city travel in Chicago,” said Daniel Mojica, executive director of Vertiport Chicago.
“Once operational, we’re excited to offer our customers a more sustainable, convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation during their commutes to the airport," said Michael Leskinen, president of United Airlines Ventures.