If Archer and United Airlines get their way, you’ll soon be able to take an electric air taxi from O’Hare straight into Downtown Chicago!
Though originally built for helicopters, Vertiport Chicago is the largest vertical airplane takeoff and landing facility in North America. Located near the Chicago Loop and the RUSH/University of Illinois Medical District, Vertiport Chicago offers unmatched convenience and accessibility — which is why the location was chosen as the takeoff and landing site for the new Archer/United matchup.
Chicago area residents and visitors will be able to access this safe, environmentally friendly, and low-noise alternative to both slow ground traffic and conventional helicopters as early as 2025, thanks to United and Archer’s rapidly expanding UAM network.
“Technological innovation thrives here in Chicago, and this venture between Archer and United is yet another example of this strength,” said outgoing Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot. “This exciting new technology will further decarbonize our means of transportation, taking us another step forward in our fight against climate change. I’m pleased that Chicago residents will be among the first in the nation to experience this innovative, convenient form of travel.”
The third most populous city in North America, Chicago is a hub for business, innovation, and investment — but, crucially, it’s also the location of United Airlines’ corporate headquarters giving United execs plenty of incentive to help Archer develop the eVTOL’s regional commercial business. The early launch routes, known as “trunk” lines, will concentrate on providing transportation between airports to city centers like Chicago and Milwaukee, with “branch” roads to link to other regions coming after the initial trunk routes have been completed.
“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 CEO. “We’re looking forward to working with state and city leaders to bring an innovative transportation solution to the City of Chicago and its surrounding communities.”
ComEd, the Midwest’s largest utility company, will work with United and Archer to establish the power infrastructure necessary to support eVTOL aircraft operations in and around the Chicago Metropolitan Area.
SOURCE | IMAGES: VERTICAL
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